This investigation mirrors previous probes into various industries like wind turbines, semiconductors, and critical minerals, all citing national security concerns under Section 232.
President Donald Trump has announced, on Truth Social, a “major” tariff investigation on imported furniture. The move is aimed at imposing higher duties on furniture imported into the US to boost domestic manufacturing.
“Furniture coming from other Countries into the United States will be Tariffed at a Rate yet to be determined,” Trump posted on Truth Social.
This investigation, under the Section 232 national security statute, is expected to conclude within 50 days but could serve as a legal backstop for existing tariffs if challenged in court. Trump claims the move will revitalise furniture manufacturing in states like North Carolina and Michigan, where industry employment has significantly declined since 1979.
Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 allows the US president to regulate imports, including imposing tariffs, if they pose a threat to national security.
“This will bring the Furniture Business back to North Carolina, South Carolina, Michigan, and States all across the Union,” Trump said.
The US imported USD 25.5 billion in furniture in 2024, with 60% coming from Vietnam and China. However, the American Home Furnishings Alliance (AHFA) opposes the tariffs, arguing they lack a national security basis and would harm remaining US manufacturing.
This investigation follows similar probes into wind turbines, metals, semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, heavy trucks, timber and lumber, critical minerals, and drones, citing national security implications.
Earlier, the European Union secured relief from potential new US Section 232 tariffs through a joint trade agreement. The deal limits new tariffs on EU pharmaceuticals, lumber, and semiconductors to 15%, while exempting EU aircraft, parts, generic pharmaceuticals, and drug chemical precursors from any new tariffs.
