NEWS

China announced it would remove tariffs for some types of hardwood logs and lumber for one year, beginning February 28. China prefers to use raw materials from other countries as it rebuilds its own forests, and, as the largest wood product exporter in the world, needs to reduce costs on incoming raw materials.

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The International Trade Commission stated that there is a "reasonable indication" that U.S. wood molding and millwork companies are being hurt by imports from China and Brazil. The Department of Commerce will continue its antidumping and countervailing duty investigation and make preliminary decisions by April 2 and June 16.

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The U.S. Department of Commerce's final duty rule on Chinese imports of wood cabinets and vanities ranges from 13.33 to 269.91%, with most Chinese manufacturers to be assessed at about 59%. If the International Trade Commission finds that U.S. industry has been injured, these rates will apply in addition to Section 301 duties. A presentation by U.S. industry to the ITC demonstrates significant injury from Chinese imports.

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Decorative Hardwoods Association (formerly HPVA) eNews Volume XIII, Issue IV: Bipartisan Letter Calls For ITC Action On Imports Of Cabinets From China | Manthei Veneer Moves Forward | Chinese Cabinetmaker Considers North Carolina Investment | Global Wood Growth Slows

A Chinese cabinetmaker, GoldenHome, may invest $86 million in a new manufacturing plant near Charlotte, creating 256 jobs. The city of Concord is considering a major tax incentive package which includes an $803,515 grant paid over 5 years.

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