U.S. Log And Lumber Exports Show Dismal Effects Of Retaliatory Tariffs

The ongoing trade/tariff war between the U.S. and China is having a significant negative impact on American wood product exports.

The hardwood sector, which is heavily reliant on exports to China, has been particularly hard hit.

“Over the last three quarters, hardwood exporters lost $153 million per quarter, as a result of the 10 percent tariffs imposed by China.  When the current tariffs increase to 25 percent, a steep acceleration of losses is expected,” the Hardwood Federation reports.

Softwood logs and lumber have been adversely affected as well.  In the first quarter of 2019, softwood lumber exports to China were down 66 percent compared to the same period last year, with softwood log exports to China down 28 percent during that same time, according to data published by Lumber Track.

Although negotiations regarding trade with China stalled between the two countries earlier this year, talks look to be back on track following a meeting between President Trump and Chinese President Xi in June.

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