US to impose new tariffs on lumber, wooden products

U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Monday that the U.S. will impose 10 percent tariffs on imported timber and lumber, and 25 percent tariffs on imported kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities and upholstered furniture, with further hikes planned.

The new tariffs will take effect on Oct 14 and some tariffs will be further raised from Jan 1 next year.

The U.S. Department of Commerce has launched an investigation into lumber and its derivatives, including cabinets and furniture, since March this year.

China opposes the use or threat of force in international relations, opposes imposing one's own will on others, and opposes a return of the world to the "law of the jungle," Foreign Minister Wang Yi said during a phone conversation with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi on Thursday.

During the call, Araghchi briefed Wang on the latest developments in Iran, saying the recent unrest was incited by external forces and that the situation has now returned to stability.

Saying that Iran has made preparations to respond to external interference while keeping the door wide open to dialog, Araghchi expressed hope that China would play a greater role in promoting regional peace and stability.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said that China consistently upholds the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and international law, opposes the use or threat of force in international relations, opposes imposing one's own will on others, and opposes a return of the world to the "law of the jungle."

He said that the Chinese side believes the Iranian government and people will stay united, overcome difficulties, maintain national stability, and safeguard their legitimate rights and interests.

Wang also called on all parties to cherish peace, exercise restraint, and resolve differences through dialog, adding that China is willing to play a constructive role in this regard.