The European Organisation of the Sawmill Industry (EOS) has described trade in most European markets as ‘normal’ during the first half of 2001.
Meeting in Berlin, the EOS board heard suppliers could further strengthen their position on the North American and Asian markets. However, an acute lack of fresh logs is making it difficult to fulfil continuing good demand for high quality sawn timber. Supply of roundwood of larger dimensions or of bad quality is at a high level, causing continued pressure on the market.
The EOS is expecting a reduction in sawmill production of up to 10% during the second half of 2001 to avoid overstraining the European markets.