Today, the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) has announced that they have found THREAT of injury to exist regarding the ongoing CVD and AD cases against certain softwood lumber products from Canada.

The good new is that U.S. Customs will not collect on the duty liabilities accrued since last September. When the Department of Commerce (DOC) publishes their CVD/AD order in the Federal Register (not later than May 23^rd), entries entered prior to that date will have their "Suspension of Liquidation" lifted. This will result in the release of all CVD/AD Single Transaction Bonds, and refund of all cash deposits.

The bad new is that effective the day the DOC publishes the CVD/AD orders in the Federal Register, cash deposits will be required for every entry of subject merchandise. Please ensure that your company has made arrangements with Jones & Jones regarding your companies preferred payment option for the cash deposits.

Jones & Jones is intensely tracking the progress of the ITC and DOC, and will keep all of you apprised of any new and breaking information.

I have also included a copy of the ITC's latest press release regarding the threat of injury finding. If you are unable to open the attachment, it can be found at http://www.usitc.gov/er/nl2002/er0502z1.HTM.

Should you have any questions regarding any of this information, please feel free to contact Jones & Jones by phone, fax, or email.