The White House issued a statement saying that the U.S. government remains engaged in negotiations with its major trading partners over trade reciprocity issues and national security concerns related to the import of timber products. On this basis, the executive decided to postpone the increase in tariffs for upholstered furniture, kitchen furniture and bathroom furniture for twelve months. According to the White House, the decision was made on the last day of the year after US President Donald Trump signed an extension and these increases will now apply until 2027.
According to the White House, the measure was scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2026, at which point the tax burden on certain imported wood products would increase. The announcement states that despite the extension granted, the 25% tariff rate in place since last September will continue to apply on these goods. The original plan called for the rate to increase from the current 25% to 30% for upholstered wood furniture and from 25% to 50% for kitchen furniture and bathroom vanities. The media reported that both changes will be postponed for another year.
The delay in the entry into force of the new tariffs comes in the context of international negotiations in which the United States takes into account both the principles of trade fairness and the protection of its security interests. As stated in the official statement, Washington is seeking coordinated solutions with other countries before applying the strictest measures.
Last September, President Trump publicly announced the increase in tariffs on wood furniture, which had already been increased previously. The proposal included a tax tightening on the import of the above-mentioned goods, which raised expectations and concerns in various industrial and commercial segments linked to this production chain.
The decision to maintain the 25% tariff rate until further notice, as mentioned in the White House statement, is in line with the intention to maintain protection mechanisms for US industry without exacerbating the immediate impact on the foreign trade sector amid international negotiations. In this sense, the government emphasizes the temporary nature of the extension.
The document sent by the White House said ongoing discussions with trading partners are aimed at reaching agreements that meet U.S. demands on reciprocity and security, variables that the Trump administration considers trade policy priorities. The executive assures that the temporary suspension of the increase in tax rates is part of the negotiating strategy of the United States, without, however, renouncing the possibility of implementing such increases from 2027 if circumstances so require.
The announcement signals the continuity of the current tariffs as a pressure and defense mechanism for local industry. Meanwhile, expectations remain regarding the outcome of the negotiations and the impact of future decisions on both bilateral trade relations and the pricing structure of the products concerned. According to the White House, these measures are aimed at ensuring a competitive environment for American manufacturers when importing wooden furniture.
In this context, the impact of tariffs and their possible future increase remain a relevant factor for manufacturers, importers and consumers. The White House reiterated its willingness to engage in discussions until agreements are reached that ensure both national security and fairness in international trade in these products.
About The Author
