The import value of tropical wood and wood furniture into the UK in the opening four months of this year were at an unprecedented level of USD565 million (Chart 1). That is 36% more than the same period in 2021 when imports were also high following a strong rebound after the downturn during the first COVID lockdown in 2020. In fact, this was by far the strongest start to the year in terms of UK import value of tropical wood and wood furniture products since at least before the 2008 financial crises. It compares to an average import value of less than USD380 million for the January to April period throughout the whole decade prior to the onset of the pandemic in 2019.
European Sawn Hardwood Production At Highest Level Since 2008. ITTO European Market Report 15th June 2022
According to the European Sawmiller Organisation (EOS), production of sawn hardwood in Europe was significantly impacted by the coronavirus crisis in 2020 with a strong decline particularly in France and Germany. Overall sawn hardwood production declined from around 6 million m3 in 2019 to just above 5.5 million m3 in 2020. Continue reading “European Sawn Hardwood Production At Highest Level Since 2008. ITTO European Market Report 15th June 2022”