Seattle Times Highlights NAHB’s Opposition to Lumber Tariffs
The Seattle Times has published an editorial by NAHB Chairman Chuck Fowke that lays out a strong case against tariffs on Canadian lumber shipments into the United States that are fueling lumber price volatility and harming housing affordability.
Under the headline, “Tariffs on Canadian Lumber are Driving Up Home Prices,” Fowke lays out a strong case on how the Commerce Department’s recent move to double tariffs on Canadian lumber from 9% to 17.9% has effectively delivered a body blow to American home buyers, renters and businesses that rely on lumber products.
He further cites the reasons for the latest lumber price surge and provides specific actions that policymakers need to take to reduce price volatility and increase supply.
Latest from NAHBNow
Advocacy
Sep 04, 2026
NAHB’s Monthly Update Features Trade and Economic Trends
Stay informed on the issues shaping the housing industry by reviewing the monthly update talking points. The latest edition includes messages on trade issues and market conditions.
PWB Week | Membership
Sep 04, 2026
Join NAHB in Celebrating Professional Women in Building Week Sept. 14-18
Join NAHB for a week of inspiring events and learning opportunities that showcase the achievements of women the industry. PWB Week will also highlight our efforts to promote, train, advance and recruit more women into the field.
Latest Economic News
Economics
Sep 02, 2026
House Price Appreciation by State and Metro Area in the Second Quarter of 2026
U.S. house prices continued to rise in the second quarter of 2026, with most states and metropolitan areas recording annual gains. Elevated borrowing costs and affordability constraints remained important headwinds, while limited housing supply continued to support prices in many markets, particularly across parts of the Midwest and Northeast.
Economics
Sep 01, 2026
Number of Open Construction Sector Positions Rising
The number of open positions in the construction sector increased in July per the Bureau of Labor Statistics Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey (JOLTS). The current level of open jobs is down from three years ago due to declines in construction activity, particularly in housing.
Economics
Sep 01, 2026
HBGI Q2 2026: Single-Family Construction Contracts Broadly While Multifamily Expands
Home building trends diverged across geographies in the second quarter of 2026. According to the Home Building Geography Index (HBGI), single-family construction declined in nearly all geographic categories, although the contraction eased in most markets from the first quarter.