Södra is reducing softwood sawlog prices by SKr25 per m³ solid volume under bark (sub) with immediate effect.

“We are seeing a reduction in the volumes required for our softwood sawmills, and our stock levels have to be adjusted to tie in with the prevailing situation here, too,” said Hakan Svensson, Södra director of forestry.

The price increase is not applicable to birch and oak, where Södra is seeing an increase in demand at both its hardwood mills.

“The development of sales of sawn hardwood has really taken off and are expected to hit record levels in 2012,” Mr Svensson added.

“The hardwood production rate is estimated to amount to almost 100,000m³ sub for the coming year.”