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As of today, the shutdown of the federal government continues, limiting activity here in Washington, DC, to those things considered essential. Fortunately, preventing wildfires and getting EPA out of the way of prescribed burns have passed the essential test, as have timber sales.

The Section 232 tariffs on cabinets and furniture kicked in on October 14. The U.S. cabinet industry could really use the help, with sales down by nearly 15% through August. Reports suggest that IKEA is looking to increase U.S. production…

On September 29, President Trump announced the long-awaited Section 232 tariffs on wood products. Despite DHA's advocacy for tariffs on hardwood plywood, engineered wood flooring, and hardwood veneer imports, these products were not included in the first round. But, the announcement includes a procedure for adding more wood products.

The top agenda item in Washington these days is funding the federal government for 2026 and preventing a government shutdown when funding runs out at the end of this month. A shutdown became much more likely when Democrats failed to provide votes for a clean continuing resolution that would fund the government at existing levels. Sixty votes are needed in the Senate to pass the legislation. Democrats are pushing for an additional $1 trillion in healthcare spending as a condition for keeping the government open.

Tariff discussions and litigation continue to dominate the news. President Trump's reciprocal tariffs were ruled unlawful by a U.S. appeals court. This tees up the issue to be decided by the U.S. Supreme Court.

I hope you all are enjoying some vacation time as summer comes to a close and Congress is on recess. This presents an opportunity to reflect on the year so far and the dramatic changes to the decorative hardwoods industry and the U.S. economy.

Trade has been a huge part of those changes. From the trade cases filed against China, Vietnam, and Indonesia to the national security review of wood product imports—with decisions to be announced soon, expect major changes in trade from now through the end of the year.…