Addressing the Threat to National Security from Imports of Timber, Lumber

March 1, 2025

Presidential Actions

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Action Summary

Purpose: Address national security risks from imported timber, lumber, and derivative products; ensure a reliable and resilient domestic supply for key civilian and military construction needs.
Policy: Emphasizes the critical role of the domestic wood products industry in national security and economic strength, noting vulnerabilities from imported products despite sufficient domestic resources.
Investigation:
- The Secretary of Commerce is to initiate a section 232 investigation to assess the national security impact of imports.
- Factors include current and projected demand, domestic production capacity, foreign supply contributions, impact of foreign subsidies, and the role of current trade policies.
Required Actions:
- Consult with the Secretary of Defense and other executive agencies to evaluate risks.
- Submit a report within 270 days detailing findings, recommending measures such as tariffs, export controls, or incentives, and proposing strategic investments and permitting reforms.
Definitions:
- Timber: Wood that has not been processed.
- Lumber: Wood that has been processed into boards or planks.
General Provisions: Ensures that the order does not affect existing agency authorities or budgetary functions and is implemented subject to applicable laws and appropriations.

Risks & Considerations

The Executive Order focuses on securing the domestic supply chain for timber and lumber, which could impact industries reliant on these materials, including construction and manufacturing. This may lead to increased costs for imported wood products due to potential tariffs or quotas.
Vanderbilt University may face increased costs for construction and maintenance projects if domestic timber and lumber prices rise due to reduced imports and increased demand on domestic supply.
The emphasis on domestic production could lead to opportunities for research and development in sustainable forestry and innovative wood products, aligning with Vanderbilt’s research capabilities.
There is a potential risk of trade tensions with countries that export timber and lumber to the United States, which could affect international collaborations and partnerships.
The investigation and potential policy changes could create uncertainty in the market, affecting long-term planning for projects that rely on wood products.

Impacted Programs

Vanderbilt’s School of Engineering may find opportunities to engage in research related to innovative building materials and sustainable construction practices.
The Vanderbilt Institute for Energy and Environment could explore research opportunities in sustainable forestry and the environmental impacts of increased domestic timber production.
Facilities Management at Vanderbilt may need to adjust procurement strategies for construction and maintenance projects to account for potential changes in timber and lumber availability and pricing.
The Office of Global Strategy might need to monitor international relations and trade policies that could affect Vanderbilt’s global partnerships and collaborations.

Financial Impact

Potential tariffs or quotas on imported timber and lumber could lead to increased costs for construction and maintenance projects at Vanderbilt, impacting budget allocations.
Opportunities for federal funding in research related to domestic timber production and innovative wood products could arise, benefiting Vanderbilt’s research initiatives.
Changes in the timber and lumber market could affect the cost and availability of materials for campus development projects, necessitating strategic planning and budgeting adjustments.
Vanderbilt may need to consider the long-term financial implications of potential trade tensions and their impact on international collaborations and partnerships.

Relevance Score: 3 (The order presents moderate risks involving compliance and potential impacts on construction and research programs.)

Key Actions

Vanderbilt’s School of Engineering should explore research opportunities in innovative building material technology, such as cross-laminated timber, which is highlighted in the executive order. This could lead to partnerships with the military and other industries focused on sustainable construction materials.
The Office of Federal Relations should monitor developments in trade policies related to timber and lumber imports. Understanding potential changes in tariffs or quotas could impact research funding and collaboration opportunities with industries reliant on these materials.
Vanderbilt’s Department of Economics could conduct studies on the economic impact of foreign competition and government subsidies on the domestic timber and lumber industry. This research could provide valuable insights for policymakers and industry stakeholders.
The Vanderbilt Institute for Energy and Environment should consider examining the environmental implications of increasing domestic timber and lumber production. This could align with the university’s sustainability goals and contribute to national discussions on resource management.

Opportunities

The executive order presents an opportunity for Vanderbilt’s Peabody College to engage in policy analysis regarding the educational implications of changes in the timber and lumber industry. This could include studying the impact on rural communities and workforce development.
Vanderbilt can capitalize on the focus on strengthening domestic supply chains by developing programs that support innovation in manufacturing and materials science. This could enhance the university’s reputation as a leader in industrial resilience and economic development.
By engaging with the Department of Commerce and other relevant agencies, Vanderbilt can position itself as a key player in shaping policies that affect the timber and lumber industries. Hosting conferences and workshops on these topics can further establish Vanderbilt as a hub for innovative thought and practice.

Relevance Score: 3 (The order suggests some adjustments are needed to processes or procedures, particularly in research and policy engagement related to timber and lumber industries.)

Average Relevance Score: 2.8

Timeline for Implementation

270 days after March 1, 2025: The Secretary of Commerce must submit a report to the President.

Relevance Score: 1

Impacted Government Organizations

Department of Commerce: The Department of Commerce is directed to initiate an investigation under section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act, assess the impact of foreign competition on domestic production, and ultimately report its findings and recommendations to the President.
Department of Defense: The Secretary of Defense is required to be consulted by the Secretary of Commerce to evaluate the national security risks associated with imports impacting both military construction and broader national security interests.
Office of Management and Budget (OMB): The order specifies that the functions of the Director of the OMB will not be impaired, ensuring that budgetary and administrative processes remain intact during implementation.

Relevance Score: 2 (Three key agencies are directly impacted by the order.)

Responsible Officials

Secretary of Commerce – Charged with initiating the investigation under section 232, consulting with other agencies, and submitting a report to the President.
Secretary of Defense – Consulted by the Secretary of Commerce to evaluate national security risks associated with imports.
Heads of Other Relevant Executive Departments and Agencies – Identified by the Secretary of Commerce to assist in evaluating the national security implications of imported timber, lumber, and derivative products.

Relevance Score: 5 (Directives impact Cabinet officials and agency heads with broad national security and trade responsibilities.)