The National Association of Home Builders says that representatives from the U.S. homebuilding industry have wrapped up talks with public and private interests in Chile in order to try to import more softwood and other lumber products from the country. Because of a free trade agreement between the two countries, Chile could provide more affordable softwood to replace some of the supply from Canada. U.S.-Canada softwood trade agreements have precipitated decades-long disputes that have resulted in higher prices, according to the NAHB. Canada is the top exporter of wood to the U.S., with a market share of 28%.
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