hm - May13 - cover.indd - National Hardwood Lumber Association

PRESIDENT’SMESSAgEA STEEP LEARNINg CURVE ANDgREAT PRogRESSWhere would the North American hardwood industry be if it were not for the continuedgrowth of the export market? After a tough 5 years in the domestic market place, I wouldestimate that without exports the already reduced hardwood industry would be less than halfthe size it is today. Regardless if your business market is domestic or involved in exports, we allneed to be thankful for the export markets.I want to recognize the previous leadership of NHLA for the foresight to expand NHLA’sservices and membership to the international market. For the past 18 months, NHLA hassupported a presence in Southern China with inspection services and education. Like any newbusiness venture, there can be some growing pains, and NHLA has felt a few. The good newsis we have experienced a steep learning curve and forward progress.I would like to report that I just returned from my first trip to China and NHLA has not onlylearned from its mistakes, but staff has worked hard to improve the business environment forboth the producing and partner members in China.NHLA’s role in any market includes education and enforcement of the NHLA Grading Rulesfor hardwood lumber. The NHLA staff has never lost sight of this business model, but as theChinese culture is much different than the domestic culture, NHLA has learned to adapt tosupply the same high quality services it offers domestically.I am happy to report that NHLA Chief Inspector Dana Spessert has made great advancementsin the handling of disputes between NHLA member firms. I would also like to stress howimportant it is to trade with fellow NHLA members, as this service is most enforceablebetween members.As NHLA members, we are bound by the NHLA Sales Code and the ethical trade of NorthAmerican hardwood lumber. I know there are disputes from time to time, but there alwayshave been. This is why NHLA inspection services and its National Inspectors are so importantto the credibility of North American hardwoods around the globe. I did enjoy hearing fromseveral Chinese buyers that they like the consistency of North American hardwoods.A complete understanding of what we are trading leads to hassle free business. NHLAcontinues to make this possible not only in the domestic market, but also around the globe.In the past year, NHLA has inspected lumber in the United States, Canada, Vietnam, andChina. At this time the NHLA Inspection Services Committee is working hard on a businessmodel that will facilitate future growth of inspection services around the globe. If you areshipping lumber, you can benefit from the NHLA inspection services and education.If anyone has any questions or concerns on the positive changes in China, please contactmyself or Mark Barford. Communications is the key to all successful business ventures.As NHLA members, weare bound by the NHLASales Code and the ethicaltrade of North Americanhardwood lumber.Sincerely,Scott HeidlerHeidler Hardwood Lumber Co.4 MAY 2013 HARDWOOD MATTERS WWW.NHLA.COM