Setra grows volumes to Japan and China

Stefan Lundin, acting CEO of Setra, said Japan and China were accounting for the company’s largest volume increases. But he said the market situation remained fragile and difficult to assess.

“The price increases which could be implemented during the spring are more a sign of reduced production and low stocks rather than increased demand,” he said.

Setra said its second quarter operating margin of 5% was “acceptable” given the economic situation and the strengthening of the Swedish krona during the year.

Delivery volumes rose by 2% during the first half of the year, compared to the same period in 2012.

Setra’s Q2 results follow postings by fellow Nordic timber giants Södra and Moelven, who both signalled optimistic signs in the softwood timber market.