STATEMENT
ONTARIO CONTINUES TO CALL FOR THE FULL REMOVAL OF DUTIES AND TARIFFS ON SOFTWOOD
LUMBER
April 10, 2026
Ministry of Natural ResourcesTORONTO — Today, Kevin Holland, Associate Minister of Forestry and Forest
Products; Mike Harris, Minister of Natural Resources; and Vic Fedeli, Minister
of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, issued a statement in response
to a preliminary indication from the U.S. Department of Commerce which suggests
that softwood lumber duties may decrease from the current rate of approximately
35% later this year:
“Ontario’s forest sector has a global reputation as a leader in the G7 in the
production of high-quality wood and wood products. People and businesses in
Canada and the United States alike rely on Ontario-made softwood lumber to build
homes and critical community infrastructure.
While this preliminary indication suggests some relief for softwood lumber
producers later this year, Ontario remains firm that duties are unwarranted and
not supported by the evidence. We continue to call for the full removal of all
duties that raise costs for both American and Canadian families. These ongoing
duties and tariffs reduce productivity, disrupt supply chains, drive up the cost
of construction and make housing less affordable.
Trade and cooperation make our two countries stronger, safer and more
prosperous. We urge the United States to work with Canada on a fair and
long-term resolution in support of workers, families and businesses on both
sides of the border.”
