Exports of American southern pine to Taiwan have seen dramatic growth in the early part of this year, according to industry newsletter Random Lengths.
In February almost two million board feet was shipped to Taiwan – just short of what normally goes there in a full year.
The growth has been put down to an increase in leisure time for Taiwanese people – they are using southern pine and other treated lumber for decking, boardwalks, gazebos and other outdoor-living amenities.