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Global wood imports will face new U.S. taxes. These begin October 14, 2025. Wood from other countries will soon cost more. Understand how this may affect your business. We broke it down for you below.

U.S. Adds Extra Tariffs on Imported Wood Products

On September 29, 2025, the White House announced new extra taxes on wood from other countries. These tariffs start October 14, 2025. They will raise costs for building, furniture, and home projects.

Why Wood

The government says too much wood is coming from outside the U.S. Many local mills have closed. This makes the U.S. rely too much on foreign wood. The U.S. says this is a security risk.

Wood is important for:

  • Military housing and bases

  • Weapons and defense systems

  • Roads and power grids

What Gets Taxed

  • Softwood Timber and Lumber – 10%

  • Wood Furniture – 25% (Oct. 14, 2025) → rises to 30% (Jan. 1, 2026)

  • Kitchen Cabinets and Vanities – 25% (Oct. 14, 2025) → rises to 50% (Jan. 1, 2026)

These new charges can be added on top of current import taxes.

Country Exceptions

  • United Kingdom – Max 10% tariff on all wood products

  • European Union & Japan – Capped at 15%

  • Other countries – May get lower rates with trade deals

Key Dates

  • Oct. 14, 2025 – First round of tariffs start

  • Jan. 1, 2026 – Tariffs rise for furniture and cabinets

  • Oct. 2026 – Review of possible tariffs on hardwood

Who is Affected

  • Lumber sellers and importers

  • Import/export companies

  • Construction and homebuilders

  • Furniture manufacturers

  • Kitchen and bathroom remodelers 

High cabinet tariffs (up to 50%) may raise remodeling costs a lot.

U.S. Goals

The U.S. says these new tariffs will:

  • Protect U.S. wood supply

  • Create jobs

  • Boost local wood production

  • Reduce reliance on foreign wood

What You Can Do

  • Review import sources and calculate costs

  • Look for U.S. suppliers

  • Watch trade talks for possible tariff relief

  • Place orders before Jan. 1, 2026

  • Work with customs brokers and shipping partners (like AGL) for smooth compliance

Bottom Line

These tariffs are a big shift in trade laws. The U.S. sees wood as a security issue, not just an economic one. Expect higher costs soon but plan for long-term changes.

For official information, see the full presidential order signed on September 29, 2025. This is for general knowledge only and is not legal or trade advice.