Chances may be improving for resolving a long-running trade dispute over pricing of Canadian softwood-lumber shipments to the U.S. The Trump administration had issued preliminary findings setting stiff tariffs. But Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross on Aug. 28 said his department was postponing final findings on tariff investigations of Canadian lumber until Nov. 14. The extension gives both sides more time to work out a deal.
Ross said, “I remain hopeful that we can reach a negotiated solution that satisfies the concerns of all parties.” He added, “This extension could provide the time needed to address the complex issues at hand and to reach an equitable and durable suspension agreement.”