While economic conditions varied across the EU during 2013, the latest European Commission (EC) data indicates 0% GDP growth for the region as a whole during 2013 (Chart 1). That at least was an improvement on the 0.5% fall in GDP during 2012. The EC is also now confident that there will be a return to growth in 2014, albeit feeble at around 1.4%.
Continue reading “No Growth in EU Economy During 2013 – ITTO European Market Report 30th January 2014”Erosion of Supply Infra-Structure Suggests Trouble Ahead for Tropical Wood Trade – ITTO European Market Report 15th January 2014
Reviewing the position of the tropical wood trade in Europe at the turn of the year is a sobering experience. Following the all-time low in EU tropical hardwood imports in 2012, all the signs are that imports in 2013 fell even further. In addition to low demand, an emerging problem has been the progressive erosion of the infra-structure to supply tropical hardwoods into Europe. Looking ahead, prospects for tropical wood in the European market do not look good. However, an increased focus on marketing and communication offers some grounds for optimism.
Continue reading “Erosion of Supply Infra-Structure Suggests Trouble Ahead for Tropical Wood Trade – ITTO European Market Report 15th January 2014”