WRI: Forest Sector Remained Resilient During Epidemic Period

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): According to Wood Resources International (WRI), the global forest products industry remained fairly strong during the initial months of the coronavirus epidemic. This is at a time when numerous industry sectors worldwide reported reduced trade activity.

The Chinese softwood log imports recorded 14% surge over the previous month in March this year. The major sources of import were New Zealand, Germany and Russia. The log imports by South Korea too were up by 19%. The log shipments out of Australia and Canada soared higher by 70% each month-on-month.

The softwood lumber imports by China recorded sharp jump by 59%. The U.S. and UK imports were up by 27% and 13% respectively. Among lumber exporters, New Zealand and Canada reported 32% and 25% surge respectively.

ALSO READ:

WRI Market Insights: Wood Fiber Costs Saw Notable Decline in 1Q/20

WRQ Reported Drastic Decline in Softwood Pulplog Prices Across Europe

The major pulp exporting countries, the Brazil, the U.S. and Chile increased their shipments between 12% and 26%. All leading pulp importing countries purchased more pulp during the month of March this year. The pulp imports by China and South Korea edged higher by 40% and 29% respectively.

Meantime, hardwood chip imports reported notable surge in China, Portugal and South Korea. Major chip exporting countries including Australia, Thailand, South Africa and Brazil recorded increased shipment volumes.