Trump orders probe into lumber imports ahead of possible tariffs

President Trump signed a Saturday executive order requesting an evaluation of lumber imports, which he described as a “critical” manufacturing industry “essential” to national security, economic strength and the industrial resilience of the United States.

“Wood products are a key input used by both the civilian construction industry and the military. Each year, the United States military spends over 10 billion dollars on construction. The military also invests in innovative building material technology, including processes to create innovative wood products such as cross-laminated timber,” the executive order reads.

It urges the Secretary of Commerce to launch an investigation into the current and projected demand for timber and lumber in the United States with specific projections on whether domestic production of timber and lumber can meet the country’s demand.

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnik is expected to submit a report that includes his assessment to the president by Nov. 26.

“The procurement of these building materials depends on a strong domestic lumber industry and a manufacturing base capable of meeting both military-specific and wider civilian needs,” the executive order says.

The measure comes as Trump announced his consideration of 25 percent tariffs on international lumber and wood products, many of which are imported from Canada. The president is also expected to announce reciprocal tariffs on nations he believes have unfair trade relationships with the U.S. soon.

Officials from China and Mexico have both claimed Trump’s tariffs violate the World Trade Organization's regulations.

Despite their concerns, the president has vowed to move forward on imposing tariffs with full force.

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