During the last few years softwood lumber import in Southeast Asia has increased dramatically with China as the top performer. However, it is also many other countries in the region that have seen a rapid increase in imports, like South Korea, India and Pakistan. Softwood lumber imports from leading exporters in Europe (Russia included) and North America amounted to 3.5 million m³ during January-November 2017, which means an increase of 15% compared to previous year.
The Southeast Asian (China and Japan excluded) import of softwood lumber (1 000 m³) from Europe (leading exporters) and North America
Importer
Jan - Nov 2017
Jan - Nov 2016
2017/2016
South Korea
1 317
1 164
+13%
Taiwan
649
574
+13%
India
469
340
+38%
Pakistan
457
414
+10%
Philippines
374
352
+6%
Vietnam
117
110
+6%
Thailand
71
60
+18%
Total
3 454
3 014
+15%
When we compare the figures during January-November with same period in 2016, we see that all countries increased the import. India (+38%) increased the most.
A higher lumber import from Europe is not only related to an increased domestic consumption in Asia, but also to a gain in market share. Europe (Russia included) has the largest market share in the Southeast Asian lumber market since 2013. The trend line for the European share is increasing at a record high level for the region. While Europe has increased its share, Canada has lost market share. The market share for the U.S. is at a low level for the country.
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