The latest EU-wide trade data indicates that imports of hardwoods from less developed countries (LDCs), while still at historically very low levels, were showing early signs of recovery in the first half of 2010 (see Table 1). During this period, European imports of hardwood logs, sawn, plywood and veneers from LDCs totalled 1,721,000 m3, a 21% gain on the volume achieved in the first half of 2009. Most of the gains were made in the second quarter of the year after a very slow start to 2010. Import performance also varied widely by European country. The overall result was strongly affected by big increases in imports of plywood by the UK and of eucalypt logs (destined for the paper rather than solid wood sector) by Portugal. Imports into several European countries including Spain, Greece and Denmark remained very weak.
Continue reading “Hardwood Plywood Makes Gains, but Other Market Sectors Remain Fragile – ITTO European Market Report 30th October 2010”European Council Votes to Implement Illegal Timber Law – ITTO European Market Report 14th October 2010
The EU’s “Illegal Timber Law” (ITL) was formally introduced by the European Council on 11 October 2010 although with the proviso that there should be a 27 month preparatory period before the law becomes actionable (at the beginning of 2013) to firm up the regulations and to give time for development of the required procedures by the European Member States and trade.
Continue reading “European Council Votes to Implement Illegal Timber Law – ITTO European Market Report 14th October 2010”