NEWS

Mexico's total imports of plywood increased by 22% year-over-year in April, as the value declined by 2%. Imports of hardwood plywood from Mexico to the U.S. shot up by 68% year-to-date through April, suggesting the possibility that plywood destined for the U.S. is being transshipped through Mexico to avoid duties.

PHOTO © USCBP

Federal enforcement against the evasion of duties on imported kitchen cabinets and vanities has accelerated over the past year, as the Justice Department, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and Homeland Security Investigations are investigating a series of cases involving transshipment, undervaluation, mis-manifesting, and broker fraud.

On July 23, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced that Clatskanie Scion will receive $30 million to finance a new sawmill in Clatskanie, Oregon. Tahoe Forest Products will receive $50 million in USDA funding to expand its timber processing capabilities in Carson City, Nevada.

In Surface and Panel's International Woodworking Fair Special Issue, DHA President Keith Christman provided guidance on how to choose the best hardwood plywood for any project. The article covers veneer species, cut, matching and grade, core types, and cost, among other variables.

Read More:  Surface & Panel Special IWF 2026 Issue → 

On July 23, President Trump imposed new Section 301 tariffs on 60 countries for failing to impose and effectively enforce a ban on imports produced with forced labor. The announcement, which was widely anticipated, came just hours before the sunset of the Section 122 10% tariffs on most U.S. trading partners.