Trump argued that these imports were undermining the US economy by threatening domestic wood mills, disrupting supply chains, and reducing the utilisation of American wood industries.
US President Donald Trump signed a presidential proclamation on Monday, 29 September 2025, which imposes new tariffs targeting imported timber, lumber, and furniture; citing national security concerns under Section 232 of the Trade Act of 1974.
The initial tariffs include a 10% duty on timber and lumber and 25% on kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, and upholstered furniture, with plans to increase these rates significantly by 1 January for countries that fail to negotiate agreements with the US.
Trump argued that these imports were undermining the US economy by threatening domestic wood mills, disrupting supply chains, and reducing the utilisation of American wood industries. He also emphasised the strategic importance of wood products in national defence, including their use in infrastructure, housing, and missile-defence systems.
This move is part of a broader tariff strategy, as Trump awaits a Supreme Court decision on the legality of his “reciprocal” tariffs, which have faced legal challenges. The new duties are set to begin on 14 October with the potential for steep increases in the new year.
Earlier, the Trump administration imposed a 100% tariff on branded or patented pharmaceutical imports, unless the company is actively constructing a manufacturing facility in the US. The administration also imposed a 25% tariff on heavy-duty trucks, a 50% tariff on imported kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities, and a 30% tariff on upholstered furniture.
These moves are part of a broader strategy to revive domestic industries, including furniture manufacturing, and to reduce reliance on imports.
