Finnish log purchases fall

Finnish forest industry timber purchases from private forests fell to 800,000m³ in February, one-fifth less than in January.

The volume procured through standing sales increased 10%, but purchases for delivery halved. Demand for wood is said to be good.

Cumulative volume so far this year is 1.7 million m³, down 23% from a year ago. Log purchases reduced by one-third.

Log stumpage prices increased 2–3% from January, with the average stumpage price of pine and spruce logs at €52–53 per m³.

Small diameter pine logs cost €23 and small diameter spruce logs €27 per m³. On average, spruce logs fetched €40.?

The Finnish Forest Industries Federation (FFIF) said the winter had been favourable for timber harvesting, and harvesters have been able to access sites that can only be felled when the ground is frozen.

“Logs, pulpwood and energy wood are all in demand, said FFIF. ? “There are signs of recovery in sawn timber exports to North Africa.”

? ?Last year, North African countries accounted for 25% of Finland’s sawn timber exports but the recent political upheavals in the region has disturbed deliveries.

“The cessation in deliveries is expected to be a temporary disturbance, as there is great need for continued construction in the countries of the region. Signs of a pick-up in export activity have accordingly been identified.?”