Speaker Evans Joins Regional Leaders in Supporting Forestry Industry Relief Efforts

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 20, 2025

Speaker Evans Joins Regional Leaders in Supporting Forestry Industry Relief Efforts

Arkansas House Speaker Brian S. Evans has joined fellow Speakers of the House from across the Southeastern United States in signing a letter urging federal leaders to take immediate action to support the forestry industry, which faces growing challenges from market instability, regulatory barriers, and trade restrictions.

"For generations, forestry has been a cornerstone of Arkansas's economy, supporting families, local communities, and jobs in nearly every region of our state," Speaker Evans said. "We must do everything we can to ensure this industry remains strong and competitive for future generations."

The letter outlines four key priorities to help stabilize and strengthen the forestry sector:

1. Fumigation Approval for Exports: The Speakers are asking for advocacy to secure European Union approval for the use of Sulfuryl Fluoride (SF) to fumigate Southern Yellow Pine wood chips for export. The EU currently bans the use of SF aboard vessels, blocking one of the few commercially viable methods to prepare wood for overseas shipment.
2. Tariff Notice Period: The letter calls for the establishment of a 90-day notice period before new tariffs affecting forest product exports or imports take effect. This would provide greater predictability for businesses and help maintain a stable market.
3. Reopening Asian Markets: The Speakers urge federal officials to prioritize reopening Asian markets for U.S. logs and wood chips through trade negotiations, restoring a critical export opportunity for the Southeast's forest products.
4. Clarification of the Transshipment Clause: The letter seeks clearer guidance under U.S. Customs and Border Protection regulations to provide certainty for trading partners regarding tariff exemptions when raw materials are of verified U.S. origin.

Speaker Evans emphasized that these actions are not only vital for Arkansas but for the entire Southeastern forestry economy. "Forestry sustains thousands of Arkansas jobs, from the mills and loggers to the haulers and equipment suppliers who keep rural communities thriving," Evans said. "These policy changes would provide much-needed relief and help secure the future of one of our state's most important industries."

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