New 25% surtax on imported wood cabinets and vanities for 200 days

Plain-language summary · AI-assisted · not legal advice

Canada has imposed a 25% surtax on imported wood cabinets, bathroom vanities, and their subassemblies for a 200-day period, based on a finding that these imports threaten serious injury to Canadian producers. The surtax applies broadly regardless of wood type, finish, assembly format (flat-pack, ready-to-assemble, etc.), or whether non-wood components like metal or glass are included. Goods originating from the United States, Mexico, Chile, Israel, or a listed developing country are exempt, as are freestanding furniture not designed for permanent installation, certain aftermarket interior accessories, non-wood hardware (hinges, handles, drawer slides), and qualifying wall-mounted medicine cabinets. Importers and retailers sourcing wood cabinets or vanities from non-exempt countries should review their supply chains and tariff classifications against the listed tariff items to determine exposure. After the Canadian International Trade Tribunal submits its report, the surtax will be narrowed to only those goods confirmed as causing or threatening injury to domestic producers.

Who this affects: importers of wood cabinets and vanities · kitchen and bathroom cabinet manufacturers · construction and renovation contractors · retailers selling cabinetry products · customs brokers and trade compliance teams