The Globe and Mail reports in its Tuesday, April 21, edition that Ottawa has commenced a trade inquiry to protect domestic manufacturers from increased foreign competition amid restricted access to the United States market. The Globe's Mark Rendell writes that Finance Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne has directed the Canadian International Trade Tribunal to investigate imports of cabinets, flooring and storage furniture. This safeguard inquiry aims to prevent a sudden influx of foreign products that could undermine local producers and may lead to significant tariffs on imports. Unlike anti-dumping measures, safeguard measures apply to all countries. Canadian cabinet, flooring and furniture manufacturers argue the measure is needed to shore up their industry, which is being battered from two sides. President Donald Trump's 25-per-cent tariffs on kitchen cabinets, vanities and upholstered furniture have largely blocked Canadian exports to the U.S. Meanwhile, Canada is seeing an increase in imports from low-cost Asian producers like China and Vietnam, who are seeking alternative markets after being excluded from the U.S. market.