Canada Initiates Legal Challenges Against U.S. Softwood Lumber Duties

On September 9, 2024, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development, announced that Canada will challenge the final results of the U.S. Department of Commerce's fifth Canadian softwood lumber reviews.

The challenges will be initiated under the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), specifically targeting the U.S. anti-dumping duties and countervailing duties imposed on Canadian softwood lumber.

According to Minister Ng, the U.S. has increased the duties on Canadian softwood lumber, which she claims negatively impacts the Canadian industry, jobs, and housing costs in both Canada and the United States.

Canada has previously contested U.S. decisions regarding softwood lumber duties under both CUSMA and NAFTA, as well as at the United States Court of International Trade.

Minister Ng stated that she emphasizes the importance of finding a mutually beneficial solution during her meetings with Katherine Tai, the United States Trade Representative. She expressed a commitment to advocating for the Canadian softwood lumber industry and the communities that depend on it.