FONOM opposes U.S. hike in softwood lumber duties
The Federation of Northern Ontario Municipalities (FONOM) warns a sharp increase in countervailing softwood lumber duties will deal a serious blow to the forestry sector in the northeast.
FONOM says the United States Department of Commerce’s decision to raise duties to 35.19% jeopardizes jobs, local businesses and the economic stability of communities across the region.
“This latest tariff hike is both unfair and economically destructive,” says FONOM President Danny Whalen. “Northern Ontario’s forestry workers and communities will be hit hard, while American families will pay even more to build or renovate their homes. No one wins in this trade war.”
FONOM says while it welcomes recent federal and provincial support for the forestry sector, it says the short-term relief is not enough.
“It’s time for the Canadian and U.S. governments to stop playing politics and negotiate a fair, long-term, rules-based agreement that safeguards rural and Indigenous economies and keeps lumber affordable for all.”
FONOM is calling on all levels of government to prioritize a permanent resolution to the softwood lumber dispute.
Richard Coffin has been a reporter and news anchor on the radio in North Bay for over 25 years. From premiers to people in the neighbourhood, he enjoys connecting with newsmakers and writing stories that matter to area listeners on a variety of topics including healthcare, education, politics, sports and more.
