A reliable source in Ottawa has conveyed that, although not signed, and subject to further negotiations, Canada’s Christina Freeland and the U.S.’ Wilbur Ross “shook hands” on a ten year Canada – U.S. Softwood Lumber Agreement. The SLA would terminate the present Canadian Softwood Lumber AD/CVD case, and be replaced with volume restrictions in the form of a quota, similar to the 2006 SLA, but without Export Surcharges. Instead of export surcharges, volume violations would involve significant penalties.
The exact volume restrictions are as yet unconfirmed, but are understood at this time to involve a 30% reduction in year one, 20% in year two, with the following eight at 10%. It is understood at this time that the 2017 SLA would follow the provisions of the 2006 SLA.
We are working right now to confirm this information and find out more.
Please contact our office any time.
thanks,
Keta Kosman
Publisher
Madison’s Lumber Reporter, est. 1952
Vancouver, BC, Canada
www.madisonsreport.com
604 319-2266