TORONTO — In a strongly worded joint statement, Ontario officials are condemning the latest decision by the U.S. Department of Commerce to raise duties on Canadian softwood lumber exports — a move they say will harm families, workers, and housing affordability on both sides of the border.
Kevin Holland, Ontario’s Associate Minister of Forestry and Forest Products, joined Minister of Natural Resources Mike Harris and Minister of Economic Development Vic Fedeli in criticizing the United States’ ongoing tariff stance. According to the ministers, the decision places an unjust burden on both Canadian exporters and American consumers, especially at a time when construction costs are already strained by inflation and supply chain disruptions.
Cross-Border Tensions Over Lumber
The softwood lumber dispute has long been a point of friction in Canada-U.S. trade relations. The latest escalation could add millions in extra duties for Canadian producers and result in costlier building materials for American homebuyers.
“Ontario and the U.S. trade together and build together,” the ministers emphasized. “The U.S. market needs Canadian lumber, and our softwood producers are proud to bring high-quality, sustainably harvested construction materials to market.”
Ontario’s forestry sector directly supports over 50,000 jobs, with many communities in Northern Ontario relying on exports to U.S. markets. The ministers warn that continued tariffs could disrupt industry operations and reduce economic momentum at a time when both countries are working to combat housing shortages.
Construction and Affordability Impact
Industry experts have repeatedly linked softwood lumber tariffs to rising home construction costs. In Ontario alone, material costs are already one of the top drivers behind housing price inflation.
“These duties disrupt industries, drive up costs and put our shared competitiveness at risk,” the ministers stated. “They limit productivity, raise construction costs, and make homes less affordable for American families.”
Ontario has called for a full elimination of the softwood lumber tariffs, echoing the federal government’s long-standing position. Provincial leaders say this would be a mutually beneficial resolution, allowing both countries to collaborate more closely on housing, infrastructure, and climate-resilient building practices.
What’s Next?
While no immediate changes are expected, Ontario’s government has reaffirmed its intention to advocate for Canadian forestry workers and producers through diplomatic channels and trade forums.
“We remain firm in our position that these duties should be lifted entirely, for the benefit of workers and families on both sides of the border.”
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