American sawn hardwood exports to the UK grew by 3% during 2004, according to new US data just released.
The value of US hardwood shipments also rose by about 3%, with white oak the top species accounting for US$30.3m – up 20% on 2003.
Ash was the second most popular at US$8.8m, while cherry, tulipwood and maple imports were each worth about US$5.4m, followed by red oak lumber (up 6%) at US$4.1m.
White oak also proved the most popular veneer species at US$1.9m, ahead of cherry at US$1.3m.
Total exports of US hardwood logs, lumber and veneer to the EU totalled US$757m, an increase of more than 10% on 2003. Irish imports were up by 23% in value at more than US$19m and 15% in volume, reflecting higher grades and higher value species.