FLA’s Statement on USTR’s Section 301 Investigation into Brazil’s Unfair Trading Practices
The Forest Landowners Association thanks the Trump Administration and U.S. Trade Representative Greer for taking decisive action by initiating a Section 301 investigation into Brazil’s unfair trading practices. This is a critical first step in addressing the surge of imported wood products produced under weaker environmental and labor standards, which undercut American-grown wood and threaten the long-term viability of U.S. working forests.
Private forest landowners manage the majority of America’s forests and set the standard for sustainable, well-managed, resilient forests that provide both economic and environmental benefits. Yet with domestic mill closures accelerating and market access shrinking, these landowners face mounting uncertainty. What they need now more than ever are strong, stable markets for U.S.-grown wood.
Fair trade enforcement is essential to restoring confidence, supporting rural economies, and ensuring that America’s forest landowners can continue investing in the future of their land. This investigation is a vital step toward leveling the playing field and prioritizing the use of high-quality, sustainably managed U.S. wood and wood products.
We commend USTR for advancing this effort and reinforcing the importance of fair competition in the forest products sector.
The Forest Landowners Association looks forward to working with USTR and the Administration to ensure healthy markets for US wood and wood products that support rural communities.
Read the full USTR announcement here: USTR Initiates Section 301 Investigation into Brazil’s Unfair Trading Practices