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
Nov 13, 2026
Podcast: Mayor Touts Housing as Foundation of Memphis Growth Strategy
On the latest episode of NAHB’s podcast, Housing Developments, COO Paul Lopez and guest host Karl Eckhart, NAHB VP of State and Local Government Affairs, welcome Mayor Paul Young of Memphis, Tenn.
Sponsored Content
Nov 12, 2026
What's Really Stalling Buyers, and the Sales You're Leaving on the Table
Buyers need enough money left over each month to live comfortably. And builders need enough margin and capital left over to keep building. Understanding the buyers' needs is essential to protecting your business.
Latest Economic News
Economics
Nov 13, 2026
Building Material Price Inflation Remains High Despite Energy Price Declines
The Producer Price Index for final demand was up 0.3% in October, after rising 1.4% in September. Compared to a year ago, final demand prices were up 6.5%.
Economics
Nov 13, 2026
No Relief: Credit Conditions for Builders Still Tightening
Credit conditions on loans for residential Land Acquisition, Development & Construction (AD&C) were still tightening in the third quarter of 2026, according to NAHB’s quarterly survey on AD&C Financing. The net easing index derived from the survey posted a third-quarter reading of -15.3 (the negative number indicating net tightening).
Economics
Nov 12, 2026
Existing Home Sales Fell to 16-Year Low
After a brief rebound last month, existing home sales plummeted to a 16-year low in October. With mortgage rates back above 7% since mid-September and home prices still elevated, buyers continued to stay on the sidelines.