David Elstone

Canadian lumber exports to the U.S. have been a source of conflict between the two countries for over a century – but the latest threat – potential 25 per cent tariffs on Canadian goods, including B.C. lumber, has the industry on edge once again. American duties are set to increase from 14 per cent now to 30 per cent later this year, so the recent and ongoing threat of a 25 per cent tariff as well has the industry on edge. …That’s because of Canada’s huge reliance on the U.S. market for its lumber alone, not to mention other products like pulp or veneer. …“When we think about exporting to Asia or other places, you know, you can’t just take 12 billion board feet and send it somewhere else, so it definitely is a concer,” said industry analyst David Elstone, managing director of the Spar Tree Group and publisher of the View from the Stump newsletter.