Softwood lumber prices were up in both North America and Europe in the 4Q, but it was more the result of lower inventory levels and reduced production rather than an increase in demand, reports the Wood Resource Quarterly. The hot market for lumber last year was China, which increased imports by 75% thereby passing Japan as the largest importer in Asia.
Global Sawlog Prices Jumped Almost 8% in 3Q Because of Improved Lumber Markets in the US and Europe, Reports WRQ
In the 3Q/09, the Global Sawlog Price Index (GSPI) had the highest quarter-to-quarter jump in the 15-year history of the Index, according to the Wood Resource Quarterly. The Index increased for the third straight quarter and reached just over US$73/m3.
Global Lumber Markets Were Mixed in 3Q/09 - Up in China, While Still Slow in the US and Japan, Reports WRQ
Softwood lumber imports to China have increased by 81% in 2009. It is not inconceivable that China will import more lumber than Japan in 2009, a historical first. Canadian sawmills have been the major beneficiaries of this new fast-growing market, reports the Wood Resource Quarterly.
Forest2Market’s Lumber Price Reports Show Increased Volume of Southern Yellow Pine Going to Builders, Higher Prices
Volume and pricing for #2 2x4s and 2x6s strengthen; builders dominate market, grow inventory and drive price increases in most recent two-month period.
Wood Costs Have Remained Unchanged for Canadian Pulp Mills in 2009 Despite Tighter Chip Supply, Reports North American Wood Fiber Review
The pulp industry in Canada has sharply reduced production the past two years both as a result of weaker pulp and paper markets worldwide and also because of less competitive pulp manufacturing facilities. Wood costs have increased for many plants as the result of reduced availability of relatively inexpensive sawmill residuals, according to the North American Wood Fiber Review.
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