Trump Imposes Lumber and Furniture Tariffs

President Donald Trump signed a proclamation imposing tariffs on softwood lumber and a range of wooden home goods that are set to take effect Oct. 14. The measures levy 10% on lumber and an initial 25% duty on kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities and upholstered wooden products, with planned increases on Jan. 1 to 50% for cabinets/vanities and 30% for upholstered furniture for countries that do not reach an agreement with the U.S. The administration says the action follows a Commerce Department probe and aims to shore up domestic manufacturing, with China repeatedly named as a primary target. Markets and companies reacted immediately: shares of some U.S. furniture makers rose while import-reliant retailers fell and firms said sourcing and product rollouts are in flux ahead of the tariff start dates. Economists and trade experts questioned some of the administration's justifications, warning the tariffs could raise consumer prices, disrupt supply chains and escalate trade tensions. The situation is developing as the administration seeks agreements with trading partners and businesses race to adapt to new costs and sourcing risks.