Total U.S. imports of hardwood plywood grew by 37% in volume and nearly 77% in value from January through June, as compared to the same period last year. Indonesia is the number one source of U.S. imports, with volume up by nearly 41%. Vietnam was the second largest source, with imports soaring an astounding 93% in volume. Russia is still the third largest source, with volume up by about 2%.

Keith Christman, president of Decorative Hardwoods Association, said that recent U.S. imports of hardwood plywood from Vietnam circumvented duties. Recent import data highlights the potential impact of this ruling. "As you'll see, imports of hardwood plywood from Vietnam are up by more than 90% this year through June," he said. "Now, most of these imports will be subject to tariffs of more than 200% as a result of the Department of Commerce's ruling. Imports from Russia—the U.S.’s third largest source of hardwood plywood—have slowed dramatically since tariffs were imposed in April. Imports from Russia were up 66% through March, but up only 2% through June.

Imports from China and Vietnam have also been a big issue for DHA's customers, he said. "Cabinet manufacturers have stepped up their advocacy for fair trade in cabinets and support of the more than 250,000 workers in the industry, rallying a bipartisan group of policymakers to support their efforts after a recent setback at the Department of Commerce."