The U.S. Department of Commerce issued its final finding Thursday on the softwood lumber duties Canadian producers must pay, escalating a trade dispute amid the renegotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement. …Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross said the decision “defends American workers and businesses from unfair trade practices.” The department also said Canadian exporters sell softwood lumber at less than fair value and Canada provides unfair subsidies to producers. …The U.S. Lumber Coalition said they are pleased with the duties because it means the U.S. lumber industry “can compete on a level playing field.” The U.S. and Canada typically enjoy a friendly trade relationship, but things have soured this year as U.S. President Donald Trump has demanded big changes to NAFTA, which is in its 23rd year.