Jerry Konter, chairman of the National Association of Home Builders, on March 23 issued the following statement after the Biden administration announced it was lifting steel and aluminum tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump in 2018:
“The Biden administration’s move to end steel and aluminum tariffs from the United Kingdom is a welcome development and a positive first step that can help lower construction and housing costs. The administration must now act with the same sense of urgency to negotiate a new agreement with Canada that will eliminate tariffs on softwood lumber shipped into the U.S. With the nation in the midst of a housing affordability crisis, the lumber tariffs are contributing to unprecedented price volatility that has added more than $18,600 to the price of a new home since last August. A failure to act decisively will be a bitter blow for American home buyers and for housing affordability.”
The Window and Door Manufacturers Association also applauded the move. Michael O'Brien, WDMA president and CEO issued the following statement:
"WDMA welcomes the decision by the Biden administration to lift tariffs on critical steel and aluminum products from the United Kingdom. As the construction and manufacturing industries continue to grapple with supply chain challenges and record-high price volatility, this action by the Administration is an important step to help stabilize supply and improve conditions for residential construction. Moving forward, WDMA encourages the Administration to also re-examine tariffs on Canadian softwood lumber and Chinese imports subject to Section 301 tariffs."
