WASHINGTON — The Canadian Kitchen Cabinet Association is applauding U.S. President Donald Trump's delay in raising tariffs on furniture, cabinets and vanities, but the industry is still suffering from the tariffs.
Trump hit the industry with 25 percent tariffs in October but suspended promised increases of 30 percent on furniture and 50 percent on cabinets and vanities that were supposed to take effect this week.
Luke Elias, vice-president of the Canadian Kitchen Cabinet Association, says the levies have already led to layoffs.
He said the federal government's “Buy Canadian” purchasing policy has helped, but more needs to be done.
Manitoba-based Elias Woodwork employs more than 400 people and exports about 80 percent of its products to the United States.
Company President Ralph Fehr says if the increased tariffs went into effect this week, it would be catastrophic for the firm.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Jan. 2, 2026.
