HFA Monitoring Impact and Gathering Intel
Details are beginning to be released of the recent White House announcements of planned new tariffs on imported upholstered seating. Effective October 14, 2025, these tariffs will begin at 25% and increase to 30% on January 1, 2026.
HFA is working closely with our Washington-based lobbyist and trade advisors to understand the full implications of this announcement. While we’re still collecting information, here’s what we know now.
What’s Covered by the New Tariffs?
The tariffs apply to upholstered seating imports, including sofas, chairs, and sectionals, categorized under the following HTSUS codes:
- 9401.61.4011
- 9401.61.4031
- 9401.61.6011
- 9401.61.6031
Kitchen cabinets, vanities, and related parts are also included. They will face a 25% tariff starting October 14, rising to 50% on January 1, 2026.
Country-Specific Exemptions
Not all countries are treated the same under this action. Here’s a breakdown:
| Country/Region | Tariff Ceiling |
| United Kingdom | 10% |
| Japan | 15% |
| European Union (27) | 15% |
Products from these countries will not be subject to the full 25–30% rates, offering potential sourcing alternatives for retailers and importers.
The Executive Order includes language that would allow additional trading partners, in addition to the UK, EU, and Japan, to negotiate an alternative rate if they are willing to address the threat of wood imports in a corresponding trade agreement.
Why the Tariffs Were Imposed
These measures fall under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, citing national security concerns around imported wood products. According to the proclamation:
“Present quantities and circumstances of wood product imports are weakening our economy, resulting in persistent threats to domestic production capacity and supply chains.”
The intent is to bolster domestic wood manufacturing to ensure the U.S. can meet national defense and critical infrastructure needs.
What’s Still Unclear — And What HFA Is Doing
While the tariff categories have been named, many practical details remain murky:
- What qualifies as “upholstered seating”? Modular pieces, imported parts, and mixed-material items may fall into gray areas.
- How is “country of origin” determined? Rules of origin and transshipment will play a role in compliance and tariff planning.
HFA is actively investigating these issues. Our government relations advocacy team is:
- Analyzing the full legal text of the proclamation
- Working with customs experts to map product codes to real-world inventory
- Monitoring for potential exclusion processes or future changes to tariff scope
- Preparing guidance for members on compliance and risk mitigation
What HFA Members Should Do Now
- Review your import portfolio: Identify any products you import under the affected HTSUS codes.
- Check sourcing origins: Determine if any goods are sourced from exempted countries or could be shifted to those markets.
- Prepare for increased costs: Budget and pricing strategies may need to be adjusted before the October 14 deadline.
- Stay connected to HFA: We’ll keep members informed as soon as more guidance becomes available.
The Home Furnishings Association is committed to protecting the interests of our members. We’ll continue to press for clarity, fairness, and flexibility as these tariffs roll out and will share updates in real time. Stay tuned for additional updates and member resources at https://myhfa.org/advocacy/.
