Ottawa intends to initiate a judicial review of the US decision to impose and maintain the 7.99% export tariff on softwood products.
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“For years, the United States has imposed unjustified, unfair and illegal tariffs on Canadian softwoods, hurting Canadian industries and driving up housing costs in both our countries,” Secretary of International Trade Mary Ng said in a statement.
In the latest episode in this never-ending battle between the two countries, the United States announced in late July that it would maintain tariffs following the fourth regulatory review by the US Department of Commerce.
The news was poorly received in Ottawa, where Minister Ng said the tariffs would hurt American businesses and the economy.
The new rates apply retrospectively to exports by certain companies in 2021.
The United States has long accused Canada of subsidizing the softwood sector, which constitutes unfair competition that must be mitigated by imposing import tariffs.
“Canada remains poised and willing to discuss a negotiated resolution to the dispute that will provide the sector with the stability and predictability it needs to ensure its continued growth and prosperity,” the minister said.
The Bund Tories stressed in last month’s dossier that “Liberals are not doing the work needed to bring both sides back to the negotiating table.”