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Trade & Policy Correspondent, SaunaNews
James Chen covers international trade policy, tariffs, and cross-border logistics as they affect the sauna and wellness equipment industry. Based in Washington, D.C., he previously reported on Asia-Pacific trade corridors for a major wire service. His analysis of regulatory shifts and their downstream impact on pricing and sourcing has made him an essential voice for importers and exporters alike.
Nordic spruce and pine prices have climbed 22% since January, driven by strong export demand from Asia and new sustainability-driven forest management policies in Finland and Sweden.
The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative has announced an 18% tariff on imported sauna equipment and components from Finland, Estonia, and Latvia, effective July 1. The move is expected to ripple across the North American sauna market.
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