The new measure postpones planned tariff increases on certain finished wood products, including upholstered chairs, kitchen cabinets, and bathroom cabinetry, from January 1, 2026, to January 1, 2027.

Currently, US tariffs under Section 232 stand at 10% for raw timber and 25% for processed wood products. The postponed increase would have raised rates to 30% and 50%, respectively. The administration cited ongoing trade negotiations and the need to safeguard economic security and supply chain stability as reasons for the delay.

Experts stress that this is not a suspension of tariffs, but a postponement of higher rates. Vietnamese wood exporters, who saw positive growth in shipments to the US in 2025 despite challenges, are expected to benefit from the temporary relief, allowing them to maintain orders, stabilise prices, and adjust market strategies.

Officials note that the delay is legally separate from pending US Supreme Court rulings on reciprocal tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, meaning Section 232 tariffs will remain in effect independently.

However, analysts caution that US authorities are still investigating and may adjust Section 232 measures on other imports in 2026, signaling a need for ongoing monitoring and strategic planning for exporters.

Wood exporters sustain growth through flexible adaptation

VOV.VN - Despite reciprocal tariffs imposed on Vietnam’s wood product exports in 2025, enterprises in Ho Chi Minh City have continued to record growth and prepare production and business plans for 2026.