NEWS

Indonesian President Joko Widodo said that his country can take advantage of the U.S.-China trade war by promoting the Indonesian timber and furniture industries. Policies crafted to support his plan include value-added tax exemptions for logs and loosening certain licensing requirements of the timber legality assurance system (SVLK).

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The U.S. Department of Commerce announced the completion of its recent review and published the preliminary results which will continue the current countervailing duty rates for most Chinese exporters of hardwood plywood. A comment period will ensue.

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Decorative Hardwoods Association (formerly HPVA) eNews Volume XII, Issue XIX: TPCs Hit Choppy Seas: EPA Yanks Approvals For Chinese, Taiwanese TPCs | U.S. Plywood Producers Claim That Certifiers Give Imports A Pass | U.S. vs. China: Who Wins At Manufacturing Kitchen Cabinets?

U.S. Customs has initiated another formal investigation into Chinese hardwood plywood allegedly transshipped through Cambodia by three importers. Two of these companies are also under investigation for transshipment through Vietnam. The merchandise in question is subject to duties and liquidation. "Live entry" for future imports will require cash deposits before the goods are released by customs.

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The U.S. Department of Commerce announced preliminary antidumping duties of 4.49% to 262.18% on wooden cabinets and vanities imported from China into the U.S. Most Chinese producers will face a 39.25% antidumping rate. The antidumping rates take effect when they are published in the Federal Register. Cash deposits will be required.