University of Canterbury researchers have made a breakthrough in treating export logs by heating them using high voltage electricity. Export logs are usually fumigated to rid the timber of pests, such as insects and fungi which could pose a biosecurity threat.
In-market log prices are reduced slightly this month. However demand is still strong as shipping prices have lowered. The in-market log price has lowered 1-2% for the products Agrifax monitors, however the cost of shipping in $/JASm³ has lowered 5-6%. Inventories
Temporary threat for Australian sawn timber producers
The Australian sawn timber industry is experiencing a temporary threat from imports as a result of a strong dollar and a global surplus of timber following the Global Financial Crisis, according to independent economic forecaster and industry analyst, BIS Shrapnel.
Forest Industry in January-June 2012: Difficult Market Conditions Led to Weaker Forest Industry Production
Finland, Aug 29, 2012 - Forest industry production volumes decreased or remained unchanged in a challenging operating environment during the first half of 2012.
Members of the Helsinki-based International ThermoWood Assn. (ITWA) sold 19.2% more product by volume in 2011 than the year before, following on from a year-over-year upswing of 24% in 2010,
Euwid reported on 11 July. The total volume sold in 2011 was 109,757 m³.
he Australian lumber market remains subdued due to limited building activity. This market is not expected to rebound in the short-term, therefore should not be relied upon by NZ lumber exporters.
The tough market for sawn timber is expected to continue over the next 15 months. Australian producers face increased pressure from imports as a result of the high Australian dollar and a global surplus of timber.
FPAC urging Canada to deepen economic ties with China
The Forest Products Association of Canada (FPAC) is urging the Canadian Government to follow through on the conclusion of the Canada-China Economic Complementarities Study which states that Canada and China should continue to strengthen their bilater
B.C. Timber Supply committee releases report with recommendations to increase timber supply
The Special Committee on Timber Supply today released its unanimous report making 22 recommendations to increase the supply and value of mid-term timber and to strengthen future forest management in the B.C. Central Interior.
