Important Update: U.S. Tariff Policy Adjustment — Implementation Delayed Until 2027
On December 31, 2025, the U.S. White House announced a change to the timing of previously planned tariff increases on certain imported wood-related products. According to the official fact sheet issued by the White House, the tariff hikes that were scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2026 will now be postponed by one year, moving the new effective date to January 1, 2027. The White House
What Has Changed
Under the amended tariff plan:
- Upholstered furniture imports — originally slated to increase from 25% to 30% — will remain at the current 25% rate through 2026.
- Kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities — which were set to rise from 25% to 50% — will also hold steady at 25% until January 1, 2027. The White House
- This adjustment preserves the status quo for both categories throughout 2026 and delays the tariff escalation to the start of 2027.
Why the Delay Was Announced
The Administration emphasized that this postponement supports ongoing discussions with trade partners regarding wood product imports and broader trade reciprocity and national security issues. By maintaining existing duties for an additional year, the U.S. aims to create a more conducive environment for productive negotiations before higher tariff rates take effect.
What This Means for Businesses
- Importers and supply chain partners can continue operating under the existing 25% tariff structure for upholstered furniture, kitchen cabinets, and vanities throughout 2026.
- Manufacturers and distributors have additional time to plan and adjust sourcing strategies before higher duties are implemented.
- Consumers may avoid near-term price increases that often accompany significant tariff changes.
The tariff policy remains rooted in Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, which allows tariffs to be adjusted where imports are seen as a potential threat to national security or economic stability. This latest amendment reflects a strategic approach to balancing trade objectives with economic impact while maintaining momentum on negotiations with key trading partners.
We will continue to monitor developments in U.S. trade policy and provide timely updates that could impact supply chain planning and international sourcing decisions.
