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2006/4/29
WASHINGTON A spokeswoman says U-S Trade Representative Rob Portman has a handshake deal with Canada to end "years of litigation, acrimony and market uncertainty" over softwood lumber. The Bush administration says it now wants to hear from American lumber producers to gauge their support. Officials say initial reaction is favorable.
The U-S has imposed penalty duties on Canadian lumber for years, contending that Canada unfairly subsidizes its own producers.
Now, Portman's office says the "solid market-based" agreement could bring stability to the North American lumber market.
Softwood lumber, including pine, is a mainstay in new home construction.
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