Commerce Dept. Reduces Duties on Canadian Softwood Lumber
Originally Published by: HBS Dealer —October 16, 2026
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The NLBMDA sent the following message to its members regarding the latest action by the U.S. Department of Commerce.
The U.S. Department of Commerce has finalized its seventh annual administrative review of antidumping (AD) and countervailing duties (CVD) on Canadian softwood lumber, reducing the combined duty rate for most covered Canadian producers from 35.16% to 24.75%. The final determination, announced October 14, follows preliminary and post-preliminary findings issued earlier this year, both of which projected a combined AD/CVD rate of approximately 25%. The finalized rate of 24.75% represents a slight reduction from those earlier estimates.
Under the final determination, the antidumping duty rate for most Canadian softwood lumber producers, categorized as non-selected companies, is 10.64%, while the countervailing duty rate is 14.11%. However, the separate 10% tariff imposed under Section 232 remains in place, bringing the combined tariff and duty burden to 34.75%, down from 45.16% under the previous rates. Individual producers may be subject to different AD/CVD rates. The revised rates are expected to take effect upon publication in the Federal Register.
While the announcement reflects a downward trend in duties, Canadian softwood lumber continues to face substantial trade barriers. For the LBM industry, ongoing tariff uncertainty remains a concern for sourcing, product availability, and long-term planning.
While the reduction represents a positive development for the industry, Canadian softwood lumber continues to face substantial trade barriers. For the LBM industry, ongoing tariff uncertainty remains a concern for sourcing, product availability, and long-term planning.
NLBMDA continues to emphasize the importance of stable and predictable trade with Canada, recognizing the deeply integrated North American building materials supply chain and the need to support housing affordability. NLBMDA will continue monitoring developments and advocating for policies that promote a reliable supply of building materials.