Trade Update Courtesy of AHEC
The European Union has published its proposed response to U.S. tariffs—and the news is better than expected.
Only about 10 percent of U.S. hardwood exports to the EU would be impacted by the 25 percent retaliatory tariff, down from earlier proposals. The tariffs are not set to begin until July 14, 2025, giving the industry time to prepare and adapt. Key products like Oak, Walnut, Hickory, Tulipwood lumber, most temperate veneers and all hardwood logs are exempt.
What’s Still at Risk?
Based on AHEC’s analysis, the following products would face a 25 percent tariff if implemented:
- Ash lumber
- Populus species lumber (Aspen, Cottonwood – not Tulipwood)
- Maple lumber
- Cherry lumber
- Rough sawn Birch & Beech lumber
- Certain temperate hardwood veneers
These categories account for roughly $37 million of the $340 million in annual U.S. hardwood exports to the EU (based on 2022–2024 averages).
Next Steps:
- Review your product HS codes closely.
- Communicate with your European customers and freight forwarders to confirm classifications and avoid unexpected costs.
- Use the attached spreadsheet and analysis from AHEC’s Environmental Policy Director, Rupert Oliver, to understand which products are impacted.
As of now, if U.S.–EU negotiations don’t resolve the issue, the 25 percent tariffs will go into effect on July 14, 2025.
