Monday, 19 October 2026 — a change in North American trade rules can reach buyers far from North America.

The key news: On 14 October the US Commerce Department finalised its seventh review of Canadian softwood lumber. Combined anti-dumping and countervailing duties fall to 24.75% from 35.16%. With the separate 10% tariff, the total border charge drops to 34.75% from 45.16%. The new rates apply once published in the Federal Register.

What it means for buyers outside the US: Lower duties make the US a more attractive outlet for Canadian SPF. Some Canadian wood that was looking for other markets may now head south, which can tighten offers elsewhere.

Example: On every $1,000 of Canadian lumber entering the US, import charges fall from $451.60 to $347.50, a cut of $104.10.

Advice for buyers: Keep more than one origin on your approved list. Northern spruce and pine from several neutral origins, with flexible routing, can protect you if one supply stream shifts.

The honest caution: Duty rates can still change in later reviews, and importers owe extra on some older shipments. The full effect on export offers is not yet clear.

Taiga Forest Wood — northern softwood, flexible routes.