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- calendar_today October 14, 2026
Ontario Responds to Latest U.S. Softwood Lumber Duties
Ontario's government has voiced strong opposition to the most recent decision by the U.S. Department of Commerce regarding softwood lumber duties. The decision, which addresses lumber import tariffs affecting both sides of the border, has ignited concern among provincial leaders in Canada.
Officials Speak Out Against Softwood Lumber Duties
In response to the U.S. action, Associate Minister of Forestry and Forest Products Kevin Holland, Minister of Natural Resources Mike Harris, and Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade Vic Fedeli issued a joint statement. They collectively emphasized that Ontario views the duties on Canadian softwood lumber exports as "unjustified" and described them as harmful to workers, businesses, and communities in both Canada and the United States.
Impact on Construction Costs and Families
According to Ontario officials, these "punitive and unjustified measures" are raising construction costs and contributing to higher living expenses for American families. The statement points to the integrated nature of the forestry sector across the border, with Ontario identified as a global leader in manufacturing and exporting Ontario forest products from sustainably managed forests.
The province’s forest sector, the statement notes, supports thousands of jobs and plays a critical role in providing wood products for both homebuilding and infrastructure projects in Canada and the United States.
Ontario's Call for Elimination of Duties
Though the U.S. has decided to decrease the duty rate to 24.75 percent, Ontario leaders argue this reduction does little to address their concern about the legitimacy of these lumber export duties. They maintain these duties are not supported by evidence and continue to make life more expensive for North American families and businesses.
The provincial government continues to urge the U.S. to eliminate all us lumber tariffs and work with Canada to establish a fair trade agreement. Such an agreement, officials suggest, would offer long-term certainty for the sector, foster north american competitiveness, support integrated supply chains, and drive job creation and economic growth on both sides of the border.
Commitment to Ontario’s Forestry Sector
Ontario’s leaders reaffirmed their intention to keep advocating for the interests of their forest industry. “Standing up for forestry means supporting Ontario communities, livelihoods and our way of life,” the statement concluded. They committed to continuing their efforts to protect Ontario jobs, challenge the current duties, and pursue a durable trade agreement that would benefit all stakeholders in the forestry supply chain.
Resources and Additional Information
- Learn more about business and economy opportunities in Ontario, including research funding and tax credits here.
- Find job resources for seekers and employers in the forest sector and beyond here.
Source: news.ontario.ca.
