Chinese Birch Plywood Tariff
Russell Plywood, Inc. keeps us up to date on the progress of the U.S. Commerce Department and International Trade Commission (ITC) Tariff against Imported Chinese Birch plywood. Most recently, on November 14, 2017 there was a temporary ruling of 206% levied on those products with a final ruling date of December 1, 2017.
A tariff is defined as a tax or duty to be paid on a particular class of imports or exports. What the Chinese Birch plywood tariff means is that all Chinese Birch moving forward will have a 206% tariff on it.
Russell Plywood, Inc. estimates has Chinese Birch imports at approximately 7500 trucks per month. With the current capacity of our industry, 1000 trucks would be hard to get through production and will extend lead times out and force prices upward. This tariff puts Chinese Birch pricing approximately 25-30% higher than D-3 Maple.
Suppliers have stated that once their current stock is depleted, this item will no longer be available. At this time, there is no way for domestic mills to sell any of their products below Chinese pricing.
This tariff will impact the cost of cabinetry made in the United States that historically use Chinese Birch Plywood. We strongly encourage cabinet manufacturers inform and prepare their dealers and designers for the quick upward price movements and lead time extensions. Check back for further updates about the Chinese Birch Plywood Tariff.
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