NEWS

On April 9, President Trump signed an executive order that increased the reciprocal tariff on Chinese products to 125% and substantially increased entry fees on low-value shipments from China. The order paused high reciprocal tariffs on many other countries, leaving those countries with a 10% tariff rate through July 9. Goods from Canada and Mexico covered under the 2020 U.S.-Mexico-Canada free trade agreement are exempt from tariffs.

Decorative Hardwoods Association (formerly HPVA) eNews Volume XVIII, Issue VIII: Reciprocal Tariffs Paused | Agencies Will Repeal Unlawful Regulations | China Hits U.S. Hardwoods With 125% Tariff | U.S.

Which hardwood tree benefits from being struck by lightning?

Answer: Dipteryx oleifera, or almendro, is resistant to lightning. A direct lightning strike will kill nearby trees, giving it more room to grow, and kill its parasitic vines, freeing up more resources.

PHOTO © CARY INSTITUTE OF ECOSYSTEM STUDIES

A U.S. importer of engineered wood flooring will pay more than $8 million in fines and fees to settle a charge of violating the False Claims Act by knowingly evading customs duties on imports from China. The whistleblower who reported the infraction will receive about $1.2 million as a reward. Those who identify attempts to evade import duties can be compensated well for reporting.

PHOTO © AJAY SURESH

The House Natural Resources Committee recently held a hearing about the Endangered Species Act Amendments Act of 2025. The goal is to modernize the act by focusing on species recovery, streamlining the permitting process, and reducing regulatory burdens. Key reforms include establishing clear statutory definitions, incentivizing species recovery, and providing regulatory certainty for private landowners engaged in conservation efforts.