New tariffs on wood: October 14th marks a turning point

TheOctober 14, 2025will be a key date for the international timber industry: from that day on, new U.S. tariffs on imported wood products will come into effect. (El Financiero) The measure was announced through a presidential proclamation signed by President Donald Trump, which establishes levies that seek to protect the domestic timber industry, strengthen national supply chains, and address what the government defines as "threats to national security."

Which products will be affected?

The measure not only taxes raw wood, but also derived products linked to the timber sector:

• A10% tariffwill be imposed on softwood, sawn timber, and basic construction-type products.
• For upholstered wooden furniture, kitchen cabinets, vanities, and other processed wood products, the initial tariff will be25%.
• Furthermore, these levies are designed to increase fromJanuary 1, 2026: upholstered wood products could escalate to 30%, while cabinets and vanities could rise to 50% if the affected countries do not reach agreements with the U.S.

The proclamation is based onArticle 232 of the Trade Expansion Act, a regulation that allows the president to impose tariffs when specific imports are considered a threat to the national security of the United States.

Why is the U.S. making this decision?

The official reasons put forward by the Trump administration revolve around:

1. Strengthening the national timber industryThe government maintains that the massive imports of wood products have weakened U.S. productive capacity, causing sawmill closures and job losses.
2. National securitySome wood products have applications in key infrastructure or military transport, so the government argues that relying on imports compromises industrial sovereignty.
3. Incentivizing local supply chainsBy increasing the cost of imports, the administration hopes that companies will turn more to national suppliers, strengthening jobs and domestic production.
4. Trade pressureThese tariffs are also conceived as a negotiating tool to achieve more favorable agreements with countries with large timber exports to the U.S.

Expected impacts and reactions

In the United States

• Local industries could benefit by reducing foreign competition.
• However, thecosts for builders, distributors, and consumerswill likely increase.
• Experts warn that rebuilding national chains is not immediate and can generate supply bottlenecks.

In exporting countries

Canada—the main supplier of wood to the U.S.—faces a direct blow, after years of disputes over subsidies and anti-dumping. Other Latin American countries such asMexico, Chile, or Brazilcould also be affected by the loss of competitiveness. The new tariffs could curb exports and force companies to seek alternative markets or renegotiate contracts.

In Mexico and the diplomatic response

The Mexican government has adopted a cautious position. According to statements byMarcelo Ebrard, Mexico will wait for details before responding officially, although it does not rule out imposing reciprocal measures if conditions warrant it. The situation could also strain theUSMCA, since the unilateral imposition of tariffs contradicts the principle of free trade between the three countries.

In addition, Mexican exporters of processed wood and furniture could facelogistical delaysat the border, more rigorous inspections, and the need torecalculate their shipping coststo remain competitive.

Risks, criticisms, and controversies

1. Exacerbated protectionismSome analysts consider these measures a regression towards protectionism that can unleash trade reprisals.
2. Increased prices for the final consumerRetail chains and construction companies anticipate an increase in the cost of furniture, houses, and materials.
3. Logistical complexityThe restructuring of routes and the search for alternative suppliers will generate a direct impact on international logistics chains.
4. Legal implicationsThe use of Article 232 is controversial and could lead to disputes in the World Trade Organization (WTO) and international courts.

Logistics as a strategic ally: Control Terrestre in the face of the new commercial landscape

In the midst of this scenario of uncertainty, logistics becomes a determining factor in maintaining competitiveness and mitigating the effects of the new tariffs. Mexican exporting companies that trade wood and furniture to the United States mustoptimize their logistics chain, reduce transportation costs, and strengthen their distribution strategies to offset tariff increases.

This is whereControl Terrestre, a company specializing in integrated logistics solutions, plays a key role. As afreight forwarder, Control Terrestre offers efficient management of land and sea transport, guaranteeing safe routes, precise times, and total shipment visibility. Faced with the new challenges arising from the wood tariffs, its ability toadapt to changing regulatory environmentsand maintainoperational agilityrepresents a competitive advantage for Mexican exporting companies.

The increase in rates and restrictions demands more than everintelligent logistics planning, inventory control, coordination with commercial partners, and a sustainable approach to cargo handling. Control Terrestre accompanies companies at each stage of the chain, from the consolidation of goods to final delivery, helping them tomaintain their position in the international marketdespite the new trade barriers.

Control Terrestreis prepared to face this new landscape and continue to boost Mexico's international trade with efficiency, innovation, and commitment.

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