NEWS

In less than one year, the new Department of Justice Trade Fraud Task Force and the Department of Homeland Security recovered more than $1 billion, including civil and criminal penalties and fees. This milestone reflects a fundamental shift in the federal government's approach to customs and trade enforcement, which emphasizes rigorous criminal prosecution and civil enforcement under the False Claims Act.

On July 17, DHA and more than 70 allied organizations sent a letter to EPA, OSHA, and OMB urging the agencies to work jointly, using the authority provided under Section 9 of the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), to ensure a single, consistent federal regulatory framework governing worker safety. Under the previous administration, EPA had proposed worker exposure thresholds for formaldehyde that are dramatically lower than OSHA requirements.

On July 20, President Trump announced new 50% duties on Canadian goods, effective August 19. These tariffs appear to apply to hardwood plywood, among other goods. DHA will continue to review the exemptions and provide updates as needed.

On July 16, the U.S. Department of Commerce announced its final affirmative determinations in the antidumping and countervailing duty investigations of hardwood and decorative plywood from China, Indonesia, and Vietnam. Duties range from 28% to 274%; see the chart below and click on the link below for more details.

The U.S. International Trade Commission held an injury hearing on July 16 and will deliver its final ruling on August 19.

Decorative Hardwoods Association (formerly HPVA) eNews Volume XIX, Issue XIV: U.S.