UK timber import volumes continue to grow
18 July 2016Latest imports stats compiled by the UK Timber Trade Federation (TTF) show a 5% volume growth in the first four months of 2016 compared to a year ago.
The TTF’s statistical bulletin puts the increase down principally to a rise in panel product imports from the likes of Brazil (+31% rise in softwood plywood) and Indonesia (+53% rise in hardwood plywood).
The picture for softwood was different, with the value of softwood imports decreasing by around 7.5%. Sawn goods were down by around 8%, while planed goods were 6.5% lower, due to currency fluctuations.
The TTF said countries outside the EU – such as Russia – seem ready to increase their shipments of the softwood to the UK.
The TTF is to hold an event in September looking at the potential impacts of the EU referendum vote on the UK timber trade and forecasts for the future.
For information on the TTF statistics, go to www.ttf.co.uk
