Panels & Furniture Asia May/June 2024

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CONTENTS 

Contents 

Issue 3 / Panels & Furniture Asia 

May / June 2024 

8 Editor’s Note 

10 News 

74 Calendar of Events 

76 List of Advertisers 

Market Report 

16 Russian lumber industry insights 

20 Vietnam exports recovering 

In Person 

22 Raute’s newest executive vice-president aims to be an 

example for his team 

24 SCM taps into India’s strong growth potential 

Product Highlight 

26 Sustainable cooperation, sustainable solution 

Panel Manufacturing 

28 How Metalube tackles challenges of air quality in wood panel 

industry 

30 TRC Woodpatch: New repair technology for wooden boards 

32 “Preparing for the future”: Wood recycling with Dieffenbacher 

54 

Furniture Manufacturing 

35 Automatic colour changeover to improve productivity 

without compromising quality 

38 Enhancing manufacturing process quality: Baumer 

Inspection System implementation at V-T Industries 

40 High-performance cross-cutting times four 

42 Dualtech Forma automatic paint sprayer 

44 Economy in transition: Challenges and opportunities for 

European industry in 2024 

Materials 

46 Grading US hardwood: A primer by AHEC 

50 Birch wood market: A snapshot 

20 

26 

Flooring 

52 ClickControl: A sustainable solution 

Structural Elements 

54 World of Volvo 

Columnists 

56 The potential of certified oil palm trunks: A sustainable 

future for wood 

Show Preview 

58 Hanoi Wood Expo 

67 Sylva Wood Expo 

Show Review 

72 CIFF Guangzhou 2024 

6 PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA | MAY / JUNE 2024

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FROM THE EDITOR 

Market picking up, 

but still hampered 

by global events 

The global furniture and construction markets 

are slowly picking up, with key markets like 

Vietnam recording a slight tick in their export 

of wood and wood products in the first two 

months of the year (p.20), and the US also 

recording rising home sales and lumber 

consumption, according to Lesprom (p.16). 

But if anything, in light of all the recent global 

events such as the Red Sea disruption, 

history has taught us to err on the side of 

caution. Policies like the EUDR are also set to 

disrupt the market — though, of course, such 

disruptions are welcomed if it is for the sake 

of betterment, like the environment. The point 

remains that the market is still very volatile. 

Chances of recovery are open to speculation, 

as much as chances of any further setback. 

Regardless of market movements, companies 

like Raute and SCM Group are still making 

strides. Raute has appointed a new executive 

vice-president for their Analyzers business 

unit, and our interview sheds some light on his 

personality and goals (p.22). SCM Group will be 

opening a new subsidiary at Bengaluru, India, 

attracted by the country’s quality standards 

as the region’s furniture manufacturing 

continuously improves (p.24). 

Trade exhibitions continue to flourish as 

well, with the recent China International 

Furniture Fair (CIFF) Guangzhou concluding 

with a record-breaking number of visitors 

(p.72). Upcoming ones like Xylexpo 2024 in 

May, Hanoi Wood Expo in May-June (p.58), 

and the return of Sylva Wood Expo after a 

five-year hiatus in June (p.67) can hopefully 

help manufacturing companies tide through 

uncertain times. 

In this issue we have an educational article 

on US hardwood grading (p.46). Often we 

are used to terms like FAS grade or Common 

grades when buying US hardwood, but how 

exactly do inspectors grade the lumber? 

The article is adapted from a video by the 

American Hardwood Export Council (AHEC), 

so credit goes to them for such informational 

content. 

Yap Shi Quan 

EDITOR 

PABLO SINGAPORE 

William Pang • Publisher 

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Yap Shi Quan • Editor 

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Shu Ai Ling • Circulation Manager 

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PABLO BEIJING 

Ellen Gao • General Manager 

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PABLO SHANGHAI 

Daisy Wang • Editor 

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NEWS 

Ledinek to present future building 

materials at Megabuild Indonesia 

From 9-12 May 2024, Ledinek 

Engineering will be showcasing at 

Megabuild Indonesia exhibition the 

advantages of building with engineered 

timber, such as cross-laminated timber 

(CLT) and glue-laminated timber (glulam). 

More and more architects and building 

developers in South East Asia and 

globally have rediscovered wood as a 

building material. 

Optimal constructional characteristics 

upgraded in production processes of 

timber engineering and the beneficial 

possibilities of wood in building 

aesthetics, along with its inherent 

environmental advantages, have 

positioned wood as a strong contender 

to steel and concrete in recent years. 

As such, there has been a revival of 

wooden construction, and Ledinek 

specialises in technology that produces 

mass timber elements. 

At the Jakarta Convention Centre (JCC) 

Senayan, Booth B-40A, Ledinek will 

feature video demonstrations of their 

range of products that encompasses 

from precision machinery for timber 

processing to advanced automation 

solutions, tailored to meet the evolving 

needs of their clients. 

A specialist team will be there to answer any 

questions, as well as to provide reportedly 

exclusive insights into their latest product 

developments. 

Megabuild Indonesia is an annual materials, 

interior and architecture trade exhibition for 

Indonesia’s building industry professionals. P 

Raw materials and labour shortages 

affect Malaysian timber industry 

Ledinek at 

IFMAC 2023 

Raw material shortages present a significant 

obstacle for Malaysia’s timber industry, 

particularly the downstream sector, according 

to the chairman of the Malaysian Panel Products 

Manufacturers’ Association (MPMA), Sheikh 

Othman Rahman. 

He added that Malaysia has the potential to 

produce high-value wood products but efforts 

are needed to address raw material supplies. 

He also said that the scarcity of raw materials is 

hindering production and affecting key products 

such as plywood, MDF and particleboard. 

Plywood is ranked as the second largest wood 

exported in Malaysia, after wooden furniture. 

The plywood industry has been looking into 

alternative raw materials such as oil palm trunks, 

coconut trunks and rubberwood, among 

others, to ensure sufficient supply. 

In 2019, the MPMA signed a Memorandum 

of Understanding with Forest Research 

Institute Malaysia (FRIM) and Plus Intervest 

for collaboration on producing tissue culture 

eucalyptus seedlings. 

Eucalyptus has good potential for plywood 

production and presents a promising 

solution to the industry’s raw material 

scarcity issues. 

Meanwhile, in Sarawak, the Sarawak 

Timber Association (STA) has called on the 

government to establish more consistent 

policies and streamlined processes for the 

recruitment of foreign workers. 

Chairman Henry Lau said this is in light of the 

challenges faced by the timber industry which 

continues to grapple with persistent labour 

shortages, particularly in the forest plantation and 

oil palm sectors. 

“A more predictable and efficient framework will 

not only help mitigate the current labour shortage 

but also contribute to the long-term stability of the 

timber industry,” Lau was quoted as saying. 

He commended the Sarawak government’s 

recent initiative on exploring the establishment 

of processing mills within the industrial forests. 

STA firmly believes that this initiative holds great 

promise for reducing log costs which are currently 

high due to long-distance transportation. P 

Source: ITTO 


NEWS 

HOMAG edging 

technologies 

for quality design 

Furniture trends are heading towards higher 

value and higher-quality craftsmanship, and 

HOMAG offers various technologies that can 

simplify the production of popular furniture 

designs: 

More value is placed on 

higher-quality and more 

realistic edgebands 

EDGEBAND WITH PIGMENTED EDGE PROFILE 

Whether in the kitchen or living area, the 

demand for textured surfaces made of 

ceramic, stone and concrete is ever-present. 

In everyday use, the materials not only have 

to be visually appealing, but also functional. 

The pigmented milling radius creates a 

frameless and seamless look. The transition 

from panel to edge should be practically 

invisible. 

The edgeband sets new standards, 

particularly in combination with laser or airTec 

technology. This trend can be realised with 

HOMAG’s EDGETEQ S-500 edgebander. 

FRONTS WITH GROOVED LOOK 

Surfaces with a grooved look give sideboards 

and highboards, wardrobes and sliding doors a 

retro charm. At the same time, they give large 

kitchens an elegant and delicate look. 

They open up numerous design options and 

can be grooved horizontally or vertically as 

doors, flaps or drawer fronts in the respective 

veneer direction. Smaller surfaces are 

suitable as high-contrast accents. 

(w): www.baillie.com 

(e): info@baillie.com 

(p): 716-649-2850 

WOOD EDGE 

Whether in the dining room, bathroom or living 

area, customers increasingly want furniture 

with the individual charm of an original wood 

edge. 

HOMAG offers two solutions for this: CNC 

routing from solid wood and the powerEdge 

Pro Duo unit, for example on the CENTATEQ 

E-510 CNC processing centre, which can be 

used to reproduce waney edges simply and 

as often as required, with panel and edge. P 

MAY / JUNE 2024 | PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA 11

NEWS 

European 

woodworking 

industries worried 

about new 

implementation of EUDR 

The European Woodworking Industries 

(CEI-Bois) has released a statement 

expressing their concern regarding the 

implementation of the EU Deforestation-free 

Regulation (EUDR). 

According to the statement, various 

European wood and woodworking 

associations are worried that designing all 

countries as “standard risks”, as opposed to 

the initial plan of different benchmarks of 

risks, will delay the implementation of the 

EUDR, thereby result in additional costs and 

administrative burdens. 

The statement was signed by CEI-Bois, the 

European Furniture Industries Confederation 

(EFIC), the European Organisation of the 

Sawmill industry (EOS), the European Panel 

Federation (EPF), the European Timber 

Trade Federation (ETTF), and the European 

Federation of the Parquet industry (FEP). 

This comes after the publication of a Financial 

Times article on 8 Mar 2024, which detailed 

that every country would be designated as 

standard risk by the EUDR to “give them more 

time to adapt” to the regulation. 

Although putting all countries as standard 

risk will benefit countries initially designed as 

high-risk, countries that are low-risk would 

have to put in more effort to comply with 

the regulations — thus erasing all benefits 

associated with the move of designating all 

countries as standard risk. 

Image: Ales Krivec/Unsplash 

As the statement said: “[I]t is essential to 

identify low-risk countries as the implications 

are significant to all the actors: when 

sourcing from low-risk countries, market 

actors do actually benefit from the possibility 

of simplified due diligence, while [EU member 

states] can reduce the number of controls 

to 1%, as foreseen by [EUDR’s] Article 16 

paragraph 10.” 

Ultimately, the European Woodworking 

Industries “urge the EU institutions to delay 

the entry into application of the EUDR for the 

operators and traders, to amend the EUDR in 

order to eliminate unnecessary bureaucratic 

hurdles and to provide actors with sufficient 

time to adapt for full and adequate 

compliance”. P 

AI forestry application wins 

international innovation competition 

An AI application developed by Metsä 

Group and CollectiveCrunch for detecting 

insect damage has won the international 

Innovation of Innovations prize. Metsä 

Fibre’s Future Sawmill concept was 

recognised in the Business innovations 

category. 

The international Quality Innovation 

Award (QIA) 2023 competition rewards 

the most notable innovations of the year. 

The application from Metsä Group and 

CollectiveCrunch detects insect damage in 

forests such as damage caused by spruce 

bark beetles before it is visible to the 

human eye. The application is based on AI, 

machine learning and open data. 

“We are happy to have received this 

international recognition. We aim to develop 

the mechanical forest industry with industrial 

efficiency in mind. We wanted to create a 

concept for our sawmill, which is the most 

modern in the world, a forerunner in its 

technology, operating model and efficiency, 

and a global trendsetter in the field. This 

resulted in the Future Sawmill concept, which 

we used at our Rauma pine sawmill that came 

online in 2022,” said Ismo Nousiainen, Metsä 

Fibre’s CEO. 

Metsä Group’s wood supply personnel has 

been using the application since June 

2023. The application can be used to both 

pinpoint damage and schedule wood trade 

and harvesting to reduce the risk of damage 

spreading. 

The map material of risk sites produced by the 

application is visible in the Metsäverkko mobile 

application used by Metsä Group’s ownermembers. 

If they wish, forest owners can use 

this material to visit the sites in person to check 

the risk areas and plan forestry work. 

The Future Sawmill concept developed 

by Metsä Fibre, part of Metsä Group, was 

recognised in the Business Innovations (Large 

Companies) category. The concept improves 

the efficiency of sawn timber production, safety 

at work, the production operating model and 

product quality management. P 


NEWS 


NEWS 

Adino signs joint venture 

agreement with Listen Adhesives 

Adino has signed a joint venture 

agreement for the production of 

hotmelt adhesives with its Chinese 

partner Listen Adhesives, the market 

leader in China for EVA edgebanding 

adhesives. 

The joint venture is the continuation 

of a partnership which started in 2018 

for the production of EVA hotmelt in 

Foshan. 

With its targeted production capacity of 

10,000 tonnes of PUR and 30,000 tonnes 

of EVA hotmelts in the first phase, 

the joint venture will enable Adino to 

extend its presence from Asia-Pacific 

into other markets such as Middle East, 

Americas and Europe. 

Adino will provide the formulation 

as well as the production know-how 

within the joint venture, alongside the 

marketing, application know-how and 

the distribution network. 

The newly built factory on 30,000m 2 

land in Shandong has been completed 

The signing ceremony in Guangzhou 

by Listen at the end of 2023 and the 

production start is targeted for Q3 2024. All 

machinery will be delivered and installed in 

June or July 2024. The opening date is set 

for 9 Sep 2024. 

“The total capacity of the plant is 50,000 

tonnes for PUR and 100,000 tonnes for EVA 

hotmelt, and our ambitious target is to fully 

utilise it by 2030,” said Wang Shaofeng, 

founder and CEO of Listen. 

“But the ambition will not stop at the 

woodworking business in midterm also 

other industries will be added to the 

customer base of Adino and Listen,” 

concluded Dieter Steinert, founder and 

CEO of Adino Group. P 

New 3D printing technology 

developed by researchers 

Researchers from Rice University and Oak 

Ridge National Laboratory have developed 

a new 3D printing technology that recycles 

wood waste material. 

According to the paper “Three-dimensional 

printing of wood” in Science Advances, the 

new methodology results in 3D printed 

objects with the texture, appearance, 

thermal stability, and smell of natural 

wood. 

Also, in contrast with some other ‘wood’ 3D 

printing filaments available today, the new 

material is simply a water-based ink made 

of lignin and cellulose, the primary building 

blocks of natural wood. 

The researchers were inspired to develop 

their wood ink after pondering over the 

inefficiency of traditional carpentry. They 

still, however, were attracted to some of the 

defining qualities of wood — specifically its 

visual, textural, olfactory, and mechanical 

properties. 

They wanted to mix the latest manufacturing 

technology of 3D printing, or additive 

manufacturing, without losing the attractive 

qualities of wood in the process. 

Current wood filaments for 3D printers are 

reportedly not up to scratch in this regard, 

being around 70% polylactic acid (PLA). The 

new 3D printing wood ink uses "entirely woodbased 

constituents and is devoid of any binder 

or foreign polymeric phase". 

No chemicals such as acetone are used in the 

waste wood processing either, according to 

the report. Last but not least, using sawdust 

and wood scraps to make this wood ink 

leverages on the substantial waste created by 

traditional wood manufacturing processes. P 

Source: Science Advances 


NEWS 

Berndorf Band Group 

sets up new branch in India 

The company’s vision for the Gujarat, India 

branch, named as Berndorf Band India, aims to 

provide potential and new customers with steel 

belts, belt systems, and local service support. 

“By becoming a reliable partner across various 

industries, we strive to significantly contribute 

to the company’s success in the region,” the 

press release stated. 

The management of Berndorf Band India 

will be led by Mohit Bhavnagari as managing 

director, who is jointly registered with 

Alexander Leutner in the company’s register, 

and Satish Pal as vice-president. 

Image: Berndorf Band Group 

It will focus on the wood, food, and 

chemical industries in the steel belt sector. 

Simultaneously, they will provide process 

equipment (Solidification & Cooling Systems) 

for the petrochemical and chemical industry. 

Berndorf Band Group has announced their 

expansion into the Indian market with a new 

branch as part of the company’s growth 

strategy. 

According to the company’s press release, 

India’s thriving economy, projected growth 

and “ambitious global goals” convinced 

Berndorf Band Group to expand into there. 

Their global service network will also be active 

in India, with three local service technicians to 

be closer to their customers and provide fast, 

cost-effective service. P 


MARKET REPORT 

Russian lumber 

industry insights 

Lesprom’s monthly report analyses the Russian 

lumber sector, highlighting production dynamics, 

supplier shifts, market prices, and Russia’s role in 

the international lumber trade. 

in 2023. An increase in demand for 

softwood lumber is expected in Japan 

in the coming months due to reduced 

supplies from Finland and Sweden, and 

the need to rebuild buildings destroyed 

in the January earthquake. 

In December, the price for Russian 

pine lumber in Alexandria, Egypt, 

increased by 11%, though this was 3.9% 

lower than the previous year’s level. 

The EU economy grew by just 0.5% 

in 2023. The International Monetary 

Fund lowered its GDP growth forecast 

for the region to 0.9% for the year. 

Construction volumes in the eurozone 

decreased by 2.2% in December 2023 

compared to the previous month, 

following a 1% decline. In November, 

softwood lumber imports into the 

EU countries decreased by 5% from 

October. Since 11 Jul 2022, Russia has 

ceased wood product deliveries to 

European markets due to EU-imposed 

sanctions. 

SUMMARY 

In 2023, Russia’s lumber industry saw 

a 1.1% decline in production to 28.7 

million cubic metres, while exports 

dropped by 10.1% to 21.9 million cubic 

metres. New housing starts in Russia 

increased by 7.5%, but the number of 

construction permits issued fell by 

15.5%. Lumber consumption in Russia 

for 2023 is estimated at 15.9 million 

cubic metres. 

In December 2023, prices for softwood 

lumber from Russia in China increased 

by 5% compared to November, while 

those from Canada and Finland rose 

by 2%. China’s economy grew by 5.2% 

in 2023, marking one of its weakest 

growth rates in decades. However, 

China’s December PMI data indicates 

improved manufacturing conditions 

at the end of the year. The real estate 

sector crisis continues to deepen, 

with the top 100 developers recording 

a sharp fall in new home sales in 

January. Sales volume decreased by 

34% year-on-year, marking the worst 

sales month since July 2020. 

Japan experienced a significant 

drop in softwood lumber imports in 

2023, reaching the lowest level on 

record. Import volume plummeted 

to 3.2 million cubic metres, a 33% 

decrease from the previous year, 

and half of what it was six years ago. 

Russian lumber exports to Japan 

fell by 40%, totalling only 467,000m³ 

The US economy grew by 3.1% last year. 

A robust job market supported strong 

consumer spending and dispelled 

recession fears. A year ago, economists 

considered a recession very likely and 

forecasted modest growth of 0.2% for 

2023. This year, with rising home sales, 

an increase in lumber consumption 

is expected. The recovery in demand 

for lumber will lead to price increases 

and a slight rise in production. The 

withdrawal of the most favoured nation 

status for trade with Russia by the US in 

2022 resulted in a sharp decline in the 

profitability of Russian lumber exports 

to the American market. Whereas 

exports amounted to 106,500m 3 in 2021, 

they fell to 7,000m 3 in 2023. 

RUSSIA 

In December 2023, Russia’s 

manufacturing sector continued 

to expand. The S&P Global Russia 

Manufacturing PMI, adjusted for 

seasonal variations, stood at 54.6 in 

December, up from 53.8 in November, 

indicating an improvement in the 

manufacturing sector’s condition. 

This growth rate was the highest since 

January 2017. 


MARKET REPORT 

The overall uplift was supported 

by steady increases in production 

volumes and new order inflows, with 

the former accelerating to its fastest 

pace in seven months. A sharp rise in 

new sales encouraged companies to 

increase their resource purchases and 

hire staff at a higher pace. Companies’ 

optimism is bolstered by steady 

customer demand growth. Costs 

continued to rise at notable rates, 

but the inflation rate slowed to its 

lowest level in six months. The pace of 

increase in output prices was similar 

to November and remained historically 

high. 

December saw rapid growth in new 

sales. Although this growth was the 

slowest in three months, it was driven 

by an increase in customer numbers, 

the launch of new products, and the 

sale of higher-quality goods. The main 

customer demand was focused on the 

domestic market, while the inflow of 

new export orders decreased for the 

second consecutive month. 

The rate of decline in new foreign 

orders was the highest since July. 

In 2023, construction in Russia 

increased. Builders of wooden houses 

expect that in 2024 the demand for 

wooden houses or houses built using 

wooden structures will be the same as 

in 2023. 

Russia in 2023 amounted to 25 million 

cubic metres, slightly below the 2022 

totals. Compared to pre-sanction 

levels, the reduction was 38.5%. The 

volume of industrial lumber production 

in Russia in 2023, according to the 

Russian Federal State Statistics 

Service (Rosstat), was 28.5 million 

cubic metres, 4.5% less than the 

previous year. 

At the same time, Lesprom Network 

estimates the total volume of lumber 

production in the country decreased 

by 7% to 37.8 million cubic metres. 

Lumber exports decreased by 10.1% 

to 21.9 million cubic metres. Thus, 

lumber consumption in Russia in 

2023 is estimated at 15.9 million cubic 

metres, 6.5% less than in the previous 

year. In December 2023, the volume 

of softwood lumber exports from 

Prices for Russian lumber 

DECEMBER 

USD per m 3 

China, softwood lumber 

1-4 grade, R/S, 26002-83, KD 18-22% 

Japan, softwood lumber 

1-3 grade, planed, 26002-83, KD 10-18% 

Egypt, pine lumber 

1-4 grade, R/S, 26002-83, KD 18-22% 


1-4 grade, R/S, 8486-86, GR 

Dynamics of prices for Russian lumber 

This 

month 

Russia decreased by 14% compared to 

November to 1.27 million cubic metres. 

Compared to the previous year, supplies 

increased by 8%. China reduced its 

import of Russian lumber in December 

by 12% compared to November to 

950,000m 3 . Compared to the same 

period last year, supplies increased by 

12%. Uzbekistan, which ranks second 

in terms of import volume, reduced 

its imports compared to November 

by 31% to 108,000m 3 . Compared to 

December 2022, supplies increased 

by 10%. Japan is third, with supplies 

to the country increasing by 32% 

compared to November to 51,000m 3 . 

The annual export growth was 26%. 

Tajikistan’s import of softwood lumber 

decreased compared to November by 

27% to 34,000m 3 , with annual supplies 

falling by 19%. Egypt rounds out the 

Previous 

Month 

Change 

Year 

Change 

Trend 

USD % 

ago 

USD % 

Trend 

201 188 13 6.9% 191 10 5.2% 

333 317 16 5.0% 344 -11 -3.2% 

191 188 3 1.6% 161 30 18.6% 

161 156 5 3.2% 188 -27 -14.4% 

Source: Lesprom Network 

Regarding lumber, builders have 

received notifications from suppliers 

about a price increase of 2,000 roubles 

per cubic metre. There is inflation 

in Russia, an increase in labour 

costs, rising prices for gasoline and 

equipment. All this affects the cost 

of lumber, and manufacturers can no 

longer keep prices at last year’s level. 

In addition, there are severe frosts in 

some regions of Russia, so logging is 

not being carried out. Potentially, this 

will affect the sawlog availability. Most 

likely, the volume of logging in 2024 will 

be less than in 2023. 

Jan22 

Feb 

Mar 

Apr 

May 

Jun 

Jul 

Aug 

Sep 

Oct 

Nov 

Dec 

Jan23 

Feb 

Mar 

Apr 

May 

Jun 

Jul 

Aug 

Sep 

Oct 

Nov 

Dec 

Jan24 

550 

500 

450 

400 

350 

300 

250 

200 

150 

100 

USD per m3 

According to Russian accounting 

firm Roslesinforg, the total volume of 

lumber and roundwood exports from 


Japan, softwood lumber 

Forecast 

Eygpt, softwood lumber 

Russia, softwood lumber 


MARKET REPORT 

top five importing countries with a volume of 

18,000m 3 , which is 61% less than in November 

and 54% less on an annual basis. 

Distribution of hardwood lumber exports from Russia by country 

DECEMBER This 

000 per m 3 month 

Previous 

Month 

Change 

Change 

Trend Year ago 

000m 3 % 000m 3 % 

Trend 

The export of hardwood lumber from Russia in 

December 2023 decreased by 17% compared 

to November to 16,000m 3 , with annual 

supplies falling by 18%. Shipments to China 

decreased by 14% to 66,500m 3 , 24% less 

than a year ago. Hardwood lumber exports to 

Vietnam decreased by 20% to 8,000m 3 , which 

is 230% more than a year ago. Uzbekistan 

ranks third in volume, with a decrease of 51% 

to 1,800m 3 , a 32% drop on an annual basis. 

CHINA 

China’s economy expanded by 5.2% 

in 2023, marking one of its weakest 

growth performances in recent decades. 

December PMI data from China indicates an 

improvement in the country’s manufacturing 

conditions towards the end of last year. 

Companies reported stronger growth 

in production and new orders amid 

strengthening market demand, although new 

export orders continued to decline, albeit at 

the slowest pace in the last six months. 

In December, the PMI rose to 50.8, signifying 

the sector’s improvement for the fourth 

time in the past five months. New orders 

grew, supporting an increase in production. 

However, buying activity stagnated, and 

companies utilised existing inventories to 

reduce costs. Raw material costs continued 

to rise, but the rate of inflation decreased. 

Due to market competition, companies only 

marginally increased their selling prices. 

Chinese manufacturers anticipate an increase 

in production this year, expecting stronger 

global demand, increased customer spending, 

and investments in new products. 

In January, the official manufacturing PMI 

index showed a slight improvement but 

remained below the contraction threshold. 

Beijing is expected to ease monetary policy 

in the coming months, including cutting 

interest rates, to support manufacturing 

and infrastructure activity. However, 

without stimulating consumption, economic 

prospects will be limited. 

On 21 Dec 2023, China’s Tariff Commission 

announced adjustments to import and 

export tariff rates effective from 1 Jan 2024. 

China 66.5 77.1 -10.6 -14% 87.7 -21.2 -24% 

Vietnam 8.0 10.0 -2.0 -20% 2.4 5.6 230% 

Uzbekistan 1.8 3.6 -1.8 -51% 2.6 -0.8 -32% 

Turkmenistan 1.7 2.8 -1.1 -38% 1.5 0.2 14% 

Thailand - 0.7 - - - 0.4 - - - 

Others 1.4 1.2 0.2 18% 2.5 -1.2 -47% 

Total 79.4 95.4 -16.0 -17% 97.2 -17.8 -18% 

Preferential import tariffs below mostfavoured-nation 

rates will be applied to 1,010 

products. For wood products, there will be six 

tiers of tariff rates: 3%, 4%, 6%, 7%, 8%, and 

12%. 

In December, sawmills in Northern China 

halted their operations due to severe cold 

weather. After the Chinese Lunar New Year, 

in February, log inventories are expected 

to increase to approximately 2.5 million 

cubic metres. However, prolonged weather 

conditions may lead to further stock 

increases. 

In 2023, log supplies to China totalled 28 

million cubic metres, compared to 48 million 

cubic metres in 2021. The decline in imports 

was due to Russia, a major log supplier to 

China, banning the export of logs in 2021. 

Northern Europe accounted for about 33% of 

China’s total log imports in 2021, thanks to a 

large quantity of beetle-damaged timber. 

In 2024, demand for lumber in China is likely to 

reach a low point before gradually increasing. 

The situation in China’s construction sector 

may not begin to improve until 2025. In 

December 2023, imports of softwood lumber 

to China increased by 6% to 1.55 million cubic 

metres year-on-year, but annual imports 

decreased by 7%. 

In December 2023, the average price of 

Russian softwood lumber in China was $200 

per cubic metre, 5% higher than the average 

price in November. According to Lesprom 

Network estimates, in January 2024, the 

average price of Russian pine lumber in China 

was $235, the price of spruce lumber was 

$195, and the price of birch lumber was $115 

per cubic metre. 


In January 2024, Russian lumber exporters 

were cautiously optimistic about price 

growth and demand in China during the first 

half of the year. This could be supported 

by factors such as seasonal demand, 

reduced imports of softwood logs from 

key supplying countries, primarily Europe, 

and China’s announced plans to revitalise 

its economy, particularly overcoming the 

construction crisis. 

In the first 10 days of January, due to 

shipping restrictions in the Red Sea, the 

freight cost from Europe increased from 

€15 to €35 per cubic metre of lumber. 

Delivery times increased by 10 days. With 

low levels of softwood lumber stocks in 

Chinese ports, suppliers noted an increase 

in importer activity. However, demand in 

China for Russian birch lumber decreased. 

JAPAN 

In December 2023, Japan’s manufacturing 

sector continued to contract, with an 

acceleration in the decline of production 

volumes and new orders amid client 

uncertainty in both domestic and 

international markets. High raw material 

inflation reached a three-month peak, 

while the rise in product prices slowed. 

Companies remain confident about the 

future, anticipating the launch of new 

products and improved demand. 

In January 2024, an earthquake occurred 

in central Japan, most severely affecting 

Ishikawa prefecture on the Noto peninsula, 

where 12,000 homes were destroyed across 

17 municipalities. In Suzu city, located on 

the edge of the Noto peninsula, only 51% of 

approximately 6,000 homes met national 

seismic resistance standards, compared 


MARKET REPORT 

to the national average of 87%. 

Rebuilding the destroyed buildings 

will require a significant amount of 

construction materials. 

Before the earthquake, major 

Japanese companies expected 

the country’s economy to grow 

in 2024 despite inflation, with a 

projected economic growth of 1%, 

slower than the 1.7% planned for 

2023. However, the earthquake’s 

aftermath could negatively impact 

the economic situation in the 

coming months. 

Japan experienced a sharp decline 

in the import of softwood lumber 

in 2023, reaching the lowest level 

since records began. Lumber 

exports from Russia to Japan 

decreased by 40%, totalling 

only 467,000m 3 in 2023. Russia 

increased exports by 13% to 

34,000m 3 , with shipments up 19% 

compared to December 2022. 

Austria’s exports increased by 13% 

to 14,000m 3 , though year-on-year 

shipments decreased by 27%. 

According to Lesprom Network 

estimates, in January 2024, all 

lumber prices in Japan increased 

by $5-10 due to high demand amid 

reduced production in Russia and 

decreased supplies from Finland 

and Sweden. The earthquake’s 

aftermath and the need to rebuild 

destroyed buildings may contribute 

to the increased demand for 

softwood lumber in Japan. 

national currency’s weakness, and 

the ongoing supply deficit. 

According to Lesprom Network 

estimates, lumber prices in Egypt 

increased in January due to high 

demand, reduced production in 

Russia, and the ongoing currency 

crisis in Egypt. 

EUROPE 

Europe’s economy hit a standstill 

in the last quarter of the previous 

year, exacerbated by high borrowing 

costs in the eurozone and the 

impact of rising energy prices 

following the outbreak of the war in 

Ukraine. The conflict led to a spike in 

energy prices in 2022, significantly 

impacting European manufacturers. 

The crisis in the Middle East, which 

has led to difficulties in cargo 

movement through the Red Sea, 

is further increasing costs for 

European importers and disrupting 

European supply chains. 

At the end of 2023, the EU’s 

manufacturing sector continued 

to decline. Production volume 

kept falling, and job cuts at 

factories continued for the 

seventh consecutive month. The 

number of new orders decreased, 

consumer buying activity declined, 

and business confidence rose to 

an eight-month high. EU goods 

manufacturers continued to reduce 

their inventories amid a lack of 

demand pressure, while suppliers’ 

delivery times improved again, 

indicating an increase in spare capacity. 

The stagnation in European production is 

unlikely to last throughout 2024. 

Since 11 Jul 2022, Russia has ceased 

wood product deliveries to European 

markets due to EU-imposed sanctions. 

UNITED STATES 

In 2023, the US economy grew by 3.1%. 

A resilient job market bolstered strong 

consumer spending, dispelling fears 

of a downturn. A year ago, economists 

deemed a recession highly probable, 

predicting a modest growth of 0.2% 

for 2023. Instead, the growth last year 

significantly exceeded expectations, 

surpassing the 0.7% increase in 2022. 

In Q4 2023, the economy expanded by 

3.3% annually, driven by household and 

government spending. This quarterly 

figure represents a slowdown from 

the 4.9% summer pace but remains 

robust. Economic growth is expected 

to continue into 2024, albeit at a much 

slower rate. 

In November 2023, the US International 

Trade Commission (ITC) decided 

to maintain anti- dumping and 

countervailing duties on Canadian 

softwood lumber for another five years. 

The withdrawal of the most favoured 

nation status for trade with Russia by the 

US in 2022 resulted in a sharp decline 

in the profitability of Russian lumber 

exports to the US market. P 

For the full version of the report, the subscription 

to ‘Russian Lumber Industry Insights’ is available at 

www.lesprom.com/research. 

EGYPT 

The December 2023 S&P Global 

Egypt Manufacturing PMI was 48.5, 

slightly up from 48.4 in November. 

The PMI improvement was partly 

due to an increase in employment 

at manufacturing facilities at 

the end of the year, indicating an 

expansion of production capacities 

and optimism among companies 

regarding future activity and the 

easing of economic challenges, 

despite a reduction in new orders 

due to slowing demand, the 

Distribution of softwood lumber exports from Russia by country 

DECEMBER This 

000 per m 3 month 

Previous 

Month 

Change 

Change 

Trend Year ago 

000m 3 % 000m 3 % 

China 950 1,076 -125 -12% 850 100 12% 

Uzbekistan 108 158 -49 -31% 98 10 10% 

Japan 51 39 12 32% 40 10 26% 

Tajikistan 34 47 -13 -27% 42 -8 -19% 

Egypt 18 46 -28 -61% 39 -21 -54% 

Others 109 113 -4 -4% 109 0 0% - 

Total 1,270 1,477 -207 -14% 1,179 92 8% 

Trend 



MARKET REPORT 

Vietnam exports 

recovering 

Positive signs are ahead as the first two 

months of wood and wood product exports 

record significant growth in Vietnam. 

Vietnam has targeted their wood and 

wood products export figures to reach 

US$16bn this year, and based on the 

country’s January and February export 

figures so far, this target — which is 

lower than the 2023 target of $18bn — 

seems optimistically achievable. 

In January 2024, Vietnam exported 

$1.49bn worth of wood and wood 

products, a 72.5% year-on-year 

increase. Combined with February 

exports, both months reached 

$2.23bn, an increase of 33% 

compared to the same period last 

year.* 

A report from the Ministry of 

Agriculture and Rural Development 

stated that the main four export 

countries in January 2024 are the 

US, China, Japan and South Korea, 

accounting for 85% of the total 

export turnover so far for the wood 

and woodworking industry.* This 

is true of the first two months, 

and as inflation rates in the 

aforementioned countries have 

somewhat stabilised, exports to 

these countries have also improved 

year-on-year. 

According to Go Viet magazine, the 

first two months of 2024 recorded 

a 51.56% increase in exports to 

the US compared to the same 

period last year; a 23.35% increase 

to China; a 47.22% increase to 

Canada; and a 153.58% to India. 

Exports to South Korea however 

decreased by 12.08%; Japan stayed 

roughly the same.* 

One of the more surprising export 

trends of January 2024 is that 

exports to the Netherlands doubled 

compared to the same period 

last year to $9.2m, according to 

VnEconomy.* The reason for this 

astronomical rise can be attributed 


MARKET REPORT 

to lack of fuel from Russia, and so 

the Netherlands turned to importing 

wood pellets from Vietnam. 

Another report by Go Viet mentioned 

that total export of wood and wood 

products in 2023 amounted to 

$13.46bn.* Of which, Binh Duong 

and Dong Nai contributed the 

most exports in South Vietnam, 

amounting to 50.8%, or $6.64bn of 

the total exports. In North Vietnam, 

Hanoi contributed 5% of the total 

exports, or around $656.14m. 

combat illegality by either focusing on 

afforestation, on domestic sources 

of timber, or controlling the supply 

chain and checking the origins of 

imported wood. 

The rising cost of shipment due to 

Red Sea disruptions is also a cause 

for concern. The Red Sea is an 

important trading route for furniture 

shipments between Asia and the 

EU and the US — both of which are 

Vietnam’s two largest wood export 

markets. The disruption has caused 

delays in meeting orders on time, 

which in turn, caused freight costs 

to increase. Currently, for freight 

prices to the US, it has reportedly 

been increased over $4,000 per 

container. Freight prices to the 

EU are reportedly around $3,700 

per 40ft container, according to 

VIFOREST. These prices have 

decreased in comparison to January 

2024, but are still considered very 

expensive.* P 

*References are available upon request. 

Legend 

1 The Vietnamese 

state should 

tightly control 

timber imported 

into the country to 

counter illegality 

2 The Suez Canal, 

located at the 

Red Sea, have 

been disrupted, 

affecting furniture 

supply chain from 

Asia to the EU 

All these point to signs of recovery 

in Vietnam’s wood and wood product 

market, especially in consideration 

of the fact that the wood and 

wood products sector is the only 

agricultural sector that achieved 

more than $1bn worth of exports 

in January 2024. Even so, experts 

and seasoned business leaders 

cautioned against the early signs of 

recovery.* 

1 

Tran Ngoc Liem, director of the 

Vietnam Federation of Commerce 

and Industry, Ho Chi Minh City 

branch, said that there are still many 

challenges awaiting the industry 

in 2024.* Among some of the 

challenges are the implementation 

of the European Deforestation-free 

Regulation (EUDR), which will come 

into force from 30 Dec 2024. 

2 

The EUDR signals a rising need for 

manufacturers to start pivoting 

to sustainable sources of timber, 

to sustainable production, and 

sustainable chain of supplies. 

Since the EU and the US, who 

implemented the regulation, are 

two of Vietnam’s biggest exporters, 

furniture manufacturers in Vietnam 

must look towards green production 

methods. Business leaders from the 

Vietnamese timber associations 

have raised concerns over the 

legality of imported timber into 

Vietnam, which might jeopardise 

exporter’s chances of entering the 

western market.* They suggested 

to the relevant ministries to 


IN PERSON 

Raute’s newest 

executive vice-president 

aims to be an example 

for his team 

As of 26 Jan 2024, Markus Sirviö 

will lead Raute Corporation’s 

Analyzers business unit as its 

new executive vice-president. 

Hear from him what makes a 

good leader, and how Raute’s 

analysers are tailored for the 

plywood, veneer and laminated 

veneer lumber (LVL) industry. 

By Yap Shi Quan 

Can you introduce yourself and your new responsibilities 

as Raute’s newest executive vice-president for the 

Analyzers business unit? 

Markus Sirviö: As the head of the Analyzers business 

unit, I am responsible for the global analyser business 

for Raute. I moved to this role from my previous position 

at Raute where I was heading the Kajaani and Lahti, 

Finland business line under Analyzers unit. Now I am 

A good leader is a little bit of everything and 

can keep the wheels spinning and drive the 

change. 

Markus Sirviö 

Executive Vice President, Analyzers, Raute 


IN PERSON 

happy to take the lead on the unit 

growth strategy in close cooperation 

with our customers and together with 

the wider Raute team. 

My roots are in the Northern region of 

Finland, and I live in a small town called 

Sotkamo of around 10,000 people. 

Living close to nature is vital to me, 

and I enjoy all the small things Mother 

Nature offers daily. I spend all my free 

time with my family, and most of our 

hobbies are related to nature, which 

reminds me of how important it is to 

keep our forests and lakes healthy. To 

give you a better picture of where I live, 

I can tell you that I have taken photos of 

five different wild brown bears from my 

backyard. 

In your opinion, what makes a good 

leader? 

Sirviö: A good leader is a little bit of 

everything and can keep the wheels 

spinning and drive the change. Today, it 

is essential to lead people and talent. It 

is important to understand individuals’ 

needs and dreams. Good leaders listen 

to the smallest, to whispers as carefully 

as loud opinions. I will set the example 

and create a safe environment to learn 

together. 

of good for nature and forests globally 

by using our technology to minimise 

waste and optimise valuable raw 

material usage. I would also like to see 

more wood-based materials used for 

decorative purposes instead of artificial 

materials. 

Can you give a brief rundown of what 

the Analyzers business unit comprises, 

and how advanced the current 

analysing technology is at Raute? 

Sirviö: We are one of the biggest in the 

veneer, plywood, and LVL industries. 

We just celebrated the 50th anniversary 

of Raute Pullman, US, and the 30th 

anniversary of Raute Kajaani, Finland 

which are our dedicated analyser hubs. 

This strong experience culminates 

in roughly 300 product variants and 

combinations of analysers that we can 

offer to the industry. 

Our latest R7-Series Analyzers are built 

on Raute’s legacy of veneer production 

innovation to create the most efficient 

solutions of their kind on the market. 

Both the Veneer Visual, Moisture and 

Strength Analyzer R7 – Peeling and the 

Veneer Visual, Moisture and Strength 

Analyzer R7 – Drying are industry 

firsts: compact, integrated units 

that can be retrofitted to any brand 

production line. 

In addition to the R7-Series Analyzers, 

we are continuously developing 

our portfolio for R5- and R3-Series 

Analyzers using the selected existing 

products matching the customer 

segment needs. We are also happy to 

introduce Raute’s analyser technology 

for new markets, as well as a part of our 

new panel repairing solution for solid 

wood panels. 

What have been some challenges 

faced by the Analyzers unit? As 

the new EVP, what are some of the 

immediate issues you plan to address, 

and what strategies do you have to 

improve the unit? 

Sirviö: The challenge is to keep current 

business blooming and, at the same 

time, create new products for totally 

new industries. Short-term wise, we will 

introduce next-level technology to our 

current products, and in the long term I 

would like to see new products to other 

engineered wood products. P 

What has your work experience been 

like at Raute, and what are some of the 

key learnings you will take with you in 

supporting your new role? 

Sirviö: During my 22 years of work 

history at Raute I have worked as 

a software team leader, product 

manager, R&D technology manager, 

and general manager. I can divide my 

work history into three categories: 

First is the technical background, 

which helps me to be realistic 

about what can be done; second 

is the commercial background, 

working directly with customers 

to understand their needs; and 

third is the business that drives 

the traditional wood industry to 

fully automatic and high-efficiency 

processes. 

The main reason why I have a long 

history with Raute is that I can do a lot 


IN PERSON 

SCM taps into 

India’s strong 

growth potential 

A lot of eyes from the woodworking industry 

have been on India lately, and SCM is one 

of them, having opened a new subsidiary 

in the city of Bengaluru together with the 

appointment of a new country manager, Kunal 

Roy. What about India attracts the Italian 

woodworking machine manufacturer? 


SCM’s announcement of their 

participation at IndiaWood in 

February 2024 came with another 

announcement: That they will open 

a new subsidiary at Bengaluru city 

of India. 

The subsidiary will open in a few 

months’ time. As SCM’s newest India 

country manager, Roy is responsible 

for overseeing the company’s 

activities in the Indian subcontinent 

region, including India itself, Sri 

Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan 

and Maldives. His goal, out of the 

Bengaluru subsidiary, is to build a 

strong and well-equipped sales and 

service team across the region. 

“My professional approach has 

always been goal-oriented, with a 

focus on challenging assignments 

and with an organisation that 

prioritises global growth,” Roy 

said. “Although I am new to the 

woodworking machinery business, 

I have a strong background in 

We are confident that the 

percentage of clients looking 

for high quality, reliable, and 

efficient technologies like the 

SCM’s Made-in- Italy solutions 

will keep growing [in India]. 

Kunal Roy 

Country Manager, India, SCM 

Our aim is to establish 

a closer connection to 

our customers. 

Giovanni Casadei 

SCM Regional Manager for 

India, Middle East and South 

East Asian markets 


IN PERSON 

Roy and Casadei with 

his SCM India team 

business management in capital 

goods sectors like gas compressor 

packages or steam boiler, with 

senior positions held in India and 

Vietnam with various manufacturing 

companies.” 

Over the last few months of being 

in SCM has taught Roy that the 

woodworking market has huge 

growth potential, and the sector 

will continue growing as the quality 

standards of region’s furniture 

manufacturing continuously improve, 

with signals of a strong expansion. 

According to Roy, SCM used to export 

its products to India through some 

dealers in region. However, with the 

evolution of both products and the 

market, there is now a growing need 

for direct contact with customers 

in terms of expertise, supply, and 

customisation of solutions tailored to 

their specific needs. And this is only 

possible with the establishment of a 

subsidiary directly in the region, with 

product specialists attending to each 

customer’s needs. 

At the time this article was 

published, SCM was investing in 

expanding its service team and did 

not have a definite headcount yet 

for the Bengaluru employees. They 

aimed for a substantial headcount 

sufficient to manage the entire 

region and the range of installed 

technologies effectively. “The 

growing technological level of 

our machines requires skilled 

technicians for training and aftersales 

support to our customers,” 

Roy explained. “Consequently, 

SCM is investing in expanding its 

service network across the region 

to assist the market in their daily 

operations, which represents 

a significant advancement 

compared to less organised 

machine manufacturers.” 

Nevertheless, SCM will continue 

working with their regional dealers 

as part of their long-term growth 

strategy. 

As for why SCM decided to open 

in Bengaluru specifically, Roy said 

that the city is the hub of business 

in India. Even so, they are locating 

their team, be it sales and product 

specialists or service technicians, 

in all of India’s major cities. Giovanni 

Casadei, SCM regional manager for 

India, Middle East and South East 

Asian markets, added: “SCM’s Indian 

subsidiary is part of a plan which 

includes all the subsidiaries that 

SCM owns across Asia, including 

Malaysia, China and the newlyopened 

Vietnam branch. Again, 

our aim is to establish a closer 

connection to our customers.” 

SCM has progressively improved its 

performance in India over the last five 

years, benefiting from the country’s 

robust economic growth, which has led 

to people’s preference for higher quality 

and more variety in home furnishings. 

This trend aligns with the purpose of 

SCM machinery, and what is said to be 

an increasing number of Indian furniture 

manufacturers seeking out their 

products. 

The situation in the South East Asian 

region is different, with markets 

primarily focused on exports; 

meanwhile, India continues to 

emphasise its domestic market. All 

countries in the region are facing 

challenges amid international instability, 

and Roy and Casadei anticipate a swift 

recovery, likely not before the end of 

this year. 

Even so, Roy cautioned that they need 

to keep in mind the woodworking 

market is characterised by a variety of 

attractive customers for European and 

non-European woodworking machinery 

manufacturers. “We are confident 

that the percentage of clients looking 

for high quality, reliable, and efficient 

technologies like the SCM’s Made-in- 

Italy solutions will keep growing. And 

that is where we can be very confident 

of successfully standing out in the 

market,” he concluded. P 


PRODUCT HIGHLIGHT 

Sustainable cooperation, 

sustainable solution 

Joreds Postformning and Jowat Scandinavia look 

back on over 10 years of cooperation as partners. 

Good economic practices and a 

responsible approach are possible 

only with a focus on occupational 

safety as well. Demand is therefore 

growing on the market for 

sustainable adhesive solutions which 

not only optimise processes but also 

occupational safety. 

At the Swedish enterprise Joreds 

Postformning, boards are laminated 

using a hazard-free adhesive 

supplied by their partner Jowat. 

The small quaint town of Fjällbacka 

in Sweden is home to the specialist 

for the manufacturing of furniture 

fronts, countertops, shelves, 

windowsills and interior wall 

panelling. With more than 70 years 

of experience and with a team of 15 

employees, Joreds is considered a 

technology specialist in Sweden for 

postforming. 

1 

“We manufacture tailor-made 

components on behalf of 

construction companies, architects 

and building material suppliers, 

for private customers but also 

public institutions,” explained 

Per Kristiansson, key account 

manager at Joreds. “Quality and 

efficiency are equally important as 

the competence and safety of our 

employees. Adhesives from Jowat 

have provided us with solutions 

which meet all these requirements.” 

BETTER EMPLOYEE PROTECTION 

Joreds has been using polyurethane 

reactive (PUR) hotmelt adhesives 

from Jowat since 2013. In the year 

2019, they eventually changed to the 

PUR hotmelt adhesive with hazardfree 

labelling Jowatherm-Reaktant MR 

609.93 for the lamination of woodbased 

countertops with decorative 

surfaces. 

“The hazard-free PUR hotmelt adhesive 

from Jowat is on par with the quality of 

conventional products. In addition, it 

improves the occupational safety and 

health protection of all processors,” 

said Per-Anders Lindgren, business 

manager for wood, furniture and 

construction at Jowat Scandinavia. 

“Coupled with that is the benefit of 

savings in terms of costs and time 

because they are not subject to special 

training requirements.” 

Kristiansson said the high-quality 

performance of Jowatherm-Reaktant 

MR 609.93 is evident also in the 

2 


PRODUCT HIGHLIGHT 

3 4 

practical application: “The PUR hotmelt 

adhesive can be used for many different 

materials, is odourless, and facilitates an 

equally easy cleaning of the processing 

equipment when the work is finished. The 

good initial strength facilitates a continuous 

manufacturing process with substrates of 

different sizes. There is no need for long 

pressing times in cycle presses — short but 

strong pressing with a roller is sufficient to 

ensure that the substrates are firmly joined 

together.” 

These characteristics save a significant amount 

of time each day. The customer’s verdict is 

positive in every respect: “The many years of 

cooperation are a testament to our satisfaction 

with Jowat as partner. Product quality, service, 

reliability — the entire package is just right.” 

Kristiansson said they are also already making 

plans for the future: “The next step is to 

integrate the monomer-reduced PUR hotmelt 

adhesive for edgebanding in our processes.” 

The Jowatherm-Reaktant MR 607.90 is 

Legend 

1 Joreds Postformning 

2 Joreds uses Jowatherm-Reaktant MR 609.93 for 

the lamination of wood-based countertops with 

decorative surfaces 

3 Environmentally friendly adhesives are important for 

the health and wellbeing of employees 

4 Jowatherm-Reaktant MR 607.90 is a hazardfree 

PUR hotmelt adhesive for the bonding of 

established edgebands in continuous processes 

reportedly processor-friendly and can be used 

for the bonding of established edgebands in 

continuous processes. P 


PANEL MANUFACTURING 

How Metalube tackles 

challenges of air quality 

in wood panel industry 

In turn, poor air quality can pose health risks 

to workers in the factory. Employees may 

experience eye and respiratory irritation, due 

to the pollutants in the air. This can lead to poor 

working conditions and potential long-term 

health problems in some cases. 

REDUCED CLEANLINESS AND COMPONENT WEAR 

OR FAILURE 

The release of pollutants into the environment 

during the press process can result in the 

accumulation of carbon deposits on the 

machinery, such as the chain, bending, and roller 

rods. This build-up can lead to tracking and 

alignment issues causing alarms and stoppages 

of the press. This build-up can cause increased 

wear on the equipment and the eventual failure 

of components impacting operational efficiency. 

When producing wood panel on continuous 

presses, the issue of air quality is an 

important area of continued development, 

especially during the manufacturing process. 

The elevated temperatures in the 

manufacturing process subject the 

chemical components in wood panel 

presses such as lubricants, release agents, 

and resins to thermal stress, leading 

to increased volatilisation. As a result, 

harmful chemical fragments would be 

released into the atmosphere, leading to 

the deterioration of air quality. It is due 

to these challenging conditions that the 

industry often faces significant difficulties 

surrounding air quality. 

In this article, Metalube delves into the 

current issues that poor air quality can 

cause and how their Metachain lubricant 

technology evolves to meet these 

challenges. 

AIR QUALITY CHALLENGES IN WOOD PANEL 

PROCESS 

When it comes to industrial lubricants operating 

under high temperatures, air quality is defined 

as the overall levels of high-level pollutants 

in the air that are harmful to human health 

and the surrounding environment when high 

temperatures are applied. 

High temperatures in the continuous 

presses cause lubricants and other chemical 

components to volatilise more easily. 

Consequently, chemical fragments can be 

released into the air. These fragments can lower 

the air quality. Wood dust and fibres, commonly 

present in the manufacturing environment, can 

also contribute to air pollution. 

Good ventilation is crucial to maintaining good 

air quality in a wood panel factory. Insufficient 

air movement around the press can lead to the 

accumulation of pollutants, exacerbating air 

quality issues further. 

In Indonesia, Knauf Gypsum, a plasterboard 

manufacturer, experienced issues with dirty 

track chains and sprockets resulting in high 

levels of carbon despots due to poor cleanliness. 

Metalube’s Metachain DW-280 was reportedly 

able to optimise cleanliness and save 84% of 

lubricant on the Grenzebach board dryer — 

previously using 50L of lubricant, Knauf Gypsum 

now only uses 8L. 1 

Furthermore, rapid evaporation of lubricants 

into the air reduces their effectiveness, 

leading to inadequate lubrication and weaker 

wear protection. This inefficiency can result 

in increased downtime, wasted product, 

maintenance costs, and decreased productivity. 

METALUBE SOLUTIONS FOR IMPROVED WOOD 

PANEL AIR QUALITY 

Due to these issues, Metalube has looked 

to improving their products and finding 

lasting solutions to meet these concerns and 

streamline the production process to improve 

performance across the entire wood panel 

industry. 



As a manufacturer of high-performance 

chain and belt lubricants for the wood panel 

industry, it is key that Metalube’s products 

perform in high temperatures and undergo 

rigorous testing to meet high standards. 

Thus, air quality tests have been a key area 

of research for them as they look to raise 

the bar within the industry. 

By focusing on high thermal stability and 

low volatility properties, the company 

aims to reduce the harmful impact on air 

quality and enhance operational efficiency 

across their product range. Consequently, 

Metalube has created a range to address 

air quality challenges in the wood panel 

manufacturing process. In particular, 

their Metachain product range has been 

formulated to be fully compatible with 

press chemicals such as PMDI, glues, and 

resins. 

HIGH THERMAL STABILITY 

The Metachain range is designed to 

withstand the demanding temperatures 

and conditions of continuous presses. With 

its high thermal stability, this prevents 

premature evaporation of Metachain 

lubricants at higher temperatures, ensuring 

they remain effective for longer periods and 

under harsh conditions. As a result, fewer 

lubricant fragments are released into the 

air when the wood panels are under stress, 

contributing to improved air quality. 

REDUCED CONSUMPTION 

With the Metachain range of lubricants, 

less lubricant is needed as well. With less 

excess oil present in and around the press, 

there is a decreased amount of lubricant 

available for evaporation. This reduction in 

oil consumption further helps improve air 

quality; it ensures that fewer pollutants and 

harmful fragments are being released. 

TESTING AIR QUALITY FOR PRESSES WITH 

METACHAIN CB 100 & 200 

When testing air quality within the 

continuous press, there are key measuring 

points that Metalube uses to determine 

the air quality within the machine. These 

are split into four zones and measured at 

the following: PM1.0, PM2.5, PM10, HCHO 

(or formaldehyde), total volatile organic 

compound (TVOC), and air quality index 

(AQI). 

During a recent on-site visit with a leading 

European MDF manufacturer, Metalube was 

able to run a series of air quality tests both 

before, with a standard chain lubricant, and 

after the implementation of Metachain CB 

100 & 200. 

Tests taken after the implementation 

of Metachain CB 100 & 200 in Zone 2 

saw a decrease in air pollutants by 54%. 

Furthermore, in Zone 4 the tests revealed 

a 71% decrease in air pollutants once 

Metachain lubrication technology was 

introduced. These results showed that 

Metalube’s solutions for improved air quality 

have proven their effectiveness. 

CONCLUSION 

Air quality challenges in wood panel 

manufacturing continue to prove a significant 

area of development. However, Metalube strives 

to continue to streamline their process in 

creating the most efficient and cost-effective, 

and safest panel production. Their approach to 

developing lubricants with high thermal stability 

and low volatility offers a promising solution to 

mitigate these air quality issues. P 

This article was first published on Metalube’s website 

and is reproduced here with permission. 

REFERENCES 

1. Metalube. “Metalube Metachain DW-280, delivers 

optimised cleanliness and 84% savings on 

Grenzebach board dryer.” 

2. Metalube. “Metalube Metachain CB-100 delivers 

9% lubricant reduction in first two weeks on 

Siempelkamp press.” 

1 

LEGEND 

1 Metalube strives 

for their products 

to perform in high 

temperatures, 

undergoing rigorous 

testing to meet high 

standards 

2 Before Metachain 

lubricant technology 

was used, and after 

2 

For example, for a large Italian wood panel 

manufacturer’s Siempelkamp press, 

Metachain CB-100 was able to reduce 

lubricant consumption by 9% in just two 

weeks, according to Metalube. 2 

These improvements have allowed 

Metalube to transform the wood panel 

production process, ensuring a safer 

working environment, less waste, increased 

productivity, and a higher quality product. 



TRC Woodpatch: 

New repair technology 

for wooden boards 

TRC Woodpatch 

With the new TRC Woodpatch, 

VAP-Wintersteiger offers a system 

for the fully automated repair of 

wooden boards using wood patches. 

According to the company, the TRC 

Woodpatch is particularly effective on 

multilayer boards such as formwork 

panels, glue-laminated timber 

(glulam) panels, and solid wood 

boards. 

with an optional panel destack aid, that 

helps to destack glued boards. 

HOW IT WORKS 

The Woodpatch repair process is as 

such: The motor spindle drills out the 

defect while the patch is created from 

the wooden strip. The patching unit 

moves from the drilling position to the 

setting position and the punch presses 

the patch into the drilled-out defect. 

The gripper pushes the wooden strip 

onwards to produce the next patch. 

PRECISION WITH THE FAULTY SPOT EYE 

The TRC Woodpatch is also equipped 

with VAP-Wintersteiger’s Faulty Spot 

Eye scanning technology, which 

Patching is a new technology that 

VAP-Wintersteiger has introduced 

with this product, whereby the 

filling material is produced from the 

customer’s own wooden strips during 

the repair process. This saves on 

raw material, and reduces the need 

to buy extra wood. These patches 

are then inserted in the direction of 

the grain. An advantage of the TRC 

Woodpatch is that it repairs boards 

on both sides in just one pass, as the 

system automatically turns the board 

once the front is repaired and then 

processes the back. It also comes 

1 



LEGEND 

1 The Faulty Spot 

Eye scanner 

detects defects 

from a size of 

0.5mm, such 

as the knothole 

diameter or crack 

width 

2 The motor spindle 

drills out the 

defect while the 

patch is created 

from the wooden 

strip 

3 Patched-up board 

4 The patches are 

inserted in the 

direction of the 

grain 

identifies different types of defects 

and determines their position with 

a high degree of accuracy and 

efficiency. Subsequently, the TRC 

Woodpatch will position the wood 

patches precisely. The Faulty Spot 

Eye also detects discolouration, 

which can be taken into account 

when assessing the different quality 

levels. 

Unlike other scanners on 

the market, Faulty Spot Eye 

calculates the dimensions based 

on depth differences using laser 

triangulation, which in turn is 

based on algorithms and filters 

developed by Wintersteiger. This 

makes the scanner unique since the 

evaluation is not based on database 

comparisons with samples. All 

defects are calculated for each board 

from scratch, with Faulty Spot Eye 

working quickly and precisely for 

the best results. It detects defects 

from a size of 0.5mm, such as the 

knothole diameter or crack width, 

and the scanner works at a speed of 

approximately 72m/min. Additionally, 

the scanner can be used for quality 

checks — with a final scan performed 

after the repair process. 

FLEXIBILITY WITH A MODULAR DESIGN 

In addition to its flexibility and precision, 

the TRC Woodpatch offers a high 

magazine capacity, whereby the large 

number of wooden strips in the magazine 

allows the machine to optimise the 

repair process, thus keeping downtimes 

to a minimum. It has a capacity of 520 

boards per layer, for a reference length of 

2,000mm and approximately 10 patched 

areas per board. 

If capacity needs to be increased, 

multiple repair lines can be added to the 

TRC Woodpatch. Customers can also add 

further options to the TRC Woodpatch, 

such as automatic refilling of the wooden 

strips in the magazine, to customise 

it and tailor it to their production 

requirements and workflows. P 

3 

2 

4 



“Preparing for the future”: 

Wood recycling with 

Dieffenbacher 

Raw material scarcity, circular 

economy, and cheaper 

costs in the long term are 

a few of the many reasons 

to start tapping into wood 

recycling. Jean-Christophe 

Zimmermann, head of sales 

for Dieffenbacher’s recycling 

business unit, shares more 

about the company’s recycling 

measures, and potentially why 

Asia-Pacific is slower than 

western countries in taking up 

recycling. 


Wood recycling has been around for 

some time when talking about recycling 

waste wood into pellets of biofuels, 

but giving them a new lease of life, 

recycling them into new fibreboards 

or particleboards, is relatively new 

technology. 

At the forefront of this wood 

recycling technology are several 

European companies, one of whom is 

Dieffenbacher, a manufacturer of press 

systems and complete production 

plants for the wood-based panels 

industry. Ten years ago, Dieffenbacher 

started tapping into recycling, a topic 

and concept then driven by the wood 

industry, according to Zimmermann. 

Only in 2019 was the company’s 

Recycling business unit established, 

aimed at not only developing recycling 

technologies for wood — which is their 

specialty — but also for other materials 

like plastics, paper and other waste 

materials. 

DIEFFENBACHER’S CAPABILITIES 

To cater to different segments, 

Dieffenbacher’s Recycling unit has 

three focus areas: One of it is waste-toproduct, 

which focuses on technology 

that can generate new products from 

different waste streams and various 

materials. Zimmermann gave an 

example of Dieffenbacher recycling 

wind turbine blades into panels for one 

of their customers. Another area is 

biofuel, which, as mentioned earlier, 

is the recycling of waste wood for 

biomass material. 

The last area is wood recycling, where 

Dieffenbacher develops solutions 

for the substitution of fresh wood 

with cleaned and prepared recycled 

wood. Zimmermann elaborated: 

“What we offer to customers is the 

opportunity to start with a small 

investment, to learn the process of 

wood recycling slowly by beginning 

with small capacities of, for example, 

5 bone-dry metric tonnes per hour 

(bdmt/h). Subsequently, because of 

how modular our systems are, the 

Dieffenbacher’s 

latest success 

with Swiss Krono 

France, where they 

were commissioned 

to modernise the 

existing plant 



customer can increase the sizes, and 

we also offer customised solutions with 

higher capacities.” 

To date, Dieffenbacher’s biggest 

greenfield project was for Austriabased 

Fundermax, where they were 

commissioned to install a 50 bdmt/h 

capacity plant. But the company is 

also capable of modernising existing 

plants in which the equipment was 

not supplied by Dieffenbacher. One 

example is the latest project for Swiss 

Krono France, where Dieffenbacher 

was tasked with improving the 

cleaning efficiency of their plant as 

well as increasing the share of recycled 

wood going into the particleboard. 

Another modernisation project was 

for Pfleiderer, where Dieffenbacher 

doubled their proportion of recycling 

wood into the production of 

particleboards by combining the old 

equipment with new, Dieffenbacher 

ones, to increase the cleaning capacity. 

For newcomers to wood recycling, 

however, the proportion of recycled 

wood would initially be 20% or 25% and 

then slowly increase to around 70%. 

Of course, this also depends on the 

availability of waste wood and gives 

manufacturers the opportunity to 

secure their supply chains. 

“Our recycling lines are capable of 

doing this,” said Zimmermann of 

Dieffenbacher’s solutions. “We try to 

prepare the lines such that they have 

the space for capacity increase in the 

future, and to prepare the material 

such that the board properties are at 

the same level as particleboards made 

with fresh wood.” 

Current cleaning technology, in theory, 

is capable of removing 100% of the 

impurities in the wood chips, said 

Zimmermann, but at the end of the day, 

there might still be some impurities 

left, just like in fresh wood. As such, the 

material would in reality be about 95% 

cleaned, even after multiple cleaning 

stages. Even so, wood recycling 

technology would only continue to 

grow from here, since it is big in the EU. 

1 

LEGEND 

1 Unilin’s recycling 

line, supplied by 

Dieffenbacher 

2 Dieffenbacher’s 

ClassiScreen, 

which screens 

the material into 

predetermined 

fractions, 

installed at 

panel producer 

Rheinspan’s plant 

1 

Designing a wood recycling plant 

is not so easy, however, when each 

customer has different needs. “The 

customers’ needs and the processes 

are always a little different. Some of 

the boards with impurities can be used 

for energy generation, while others 

have to be disposed of. Also, how does 

the raw material look like? It differs 

from area to area, country to country; 

some wood particles or fibres might 

be finer or coarser than others,” said 

Zimmermann. 

2 

“So, our focus is to talk to the customer, 

understand what their expectations are 

and how we can help them move forward. 

Plants from five years ago are different 

from now because the materials looked 

different then too. Everything has to be 

prepared for the future.” 

EUROPE VERSUS ASIA-PACIFIC 

Arguably, Europe is far ahead than 

Asia-Pacific in wood recycling 

technology or culture. Zimmermann 

said that in Europe, there are panel 

producers who have recycling facilities 

of their own and use 100% of recycled 

material in their particleboards. 



Dieffenbacher has been participating in 

the EU project EcoReFibre, partnering 

with 19 other organisations to recycle 

wood fibreboards at the end of their 

lifecycle and use the recycled fibres to 

produce new fibreboards. “The main 

task for Dieffenbacher in EcoReFibre is 

sorting technology, to sort fibreboards 

from end-of-life laminates, flooring and 

furniture, and to produce usable fibres 

from the sorted fibreboard material 

again,” said Zimmermann. 

3 

In contrast, Asia-Pacific does not have 

good infrastructure or government 

support for wood recycling ventures. 

Even though there is interest in 

Asia-Pacific for wood recycling 

— Zimmermann reported that 

Dieffenbacher has received requests 

from Asian producers into their 

smaller recycling solutions — without 

the aforementioned support, without 

waste wood collection systems, there 

is no ready supply of waste wood for 

Asian panel producers to tap into. 

4 

“I think one of the biggest points of 

concern for producers is material 

availability, which means having it 

ready constantly, and having them 

clean enough for production. As such, 

the collection systems for waste wood 

have to be established, whether it 

is from the state or the city, or even 

from the producers themselves,” 

Zimmermann said. “Of course, maybe 

some producers are also afraid of 

using waste wood since they think 

the product quality will be lower than 

panelboards made with fresh wood. 

But we can take this fear away since 

it is actually proven that recycled 

panelboards work just as well as fresh 

wood ones.” 

Wood recycling has its various 

advantages. Using wood with a 

cascading approach rather than a 

linear one is sustainable, and from a 

cost perspective, waste wood can be 

cheaper and have higher availability 

than fresh wood, depending on 

the area producers work in. Panel 

producers in Asia-Pacific looking to 

start small in wood recycling can start 

with, for example, Dieffenbacher’s 

ClassiScreen, which has roller screens 

that separate the infeed material into 

two or three fractions based on the 

dimensions of the wood particles. 

For smaller capacities, Dieffenbacher 

also supplies small sifting units, which 

require less energy than the bigger 

ones. The sifting unit is installed 

in each fraction, which then sifts 

through the wood chips based on 

which impurities they have in them — 

sand, stones, ferrous and non-ferrous 

metals — and as a result, wood chips 

with lighter impurities get separated 

from wood chips with heavier 

impurities. 

Ultimately, it is not so much about 

what solutions Dieffenbacher has but 

what the company can offer as long 

as they understand the customer’s 

requirements. “We are happy to share 

our experiences and to find suitable 

solutions for each existing plant or new 

plants,” concluded Zimmermann. “We 

are always happy to support.” P 

Images: Dieffenbacher 

LEGEND 

3 Dieffenbacher’s 

material feeder at 

Rheinspan’s plant 

4 Rheinspan 

invested a €10m 

cleaning line by 

Dieffenbacher 

back in 2019 


FURNITURE MANUFACTURING 

Automatic colour 

changeover to improve 

productivity without 

compromising quality 

Furniture manufacturer Pianca 

partnered with Cefla Finishing 

to maintain the customisability 

of its furniture production 

processes while at the same time 

increasing productivity, which was 

negatively affected by frequent 

colour changes. The company’s 

production strategy was focused 

on batch size one, which meant 

that each furniture piece was 

unique and required personalised 

settings and frequent colour 

changeover. 

Established in 1956, Pianca 

specialises in the creation of 

systems and furnishing accessories 

for residential environments, both 

for the sleeping and the living 

areas. Particularly for its furnishing 

accessories, the company is 

committed to meeting the needs of a 

lifestyle based on flexibility, mobility 

and change. It has a design approach 

focused on the customisation of 

products and spaces, aimed at 

meeting the style requirements of 

change-oriented living. 

These priorities are therefore at the 

core of its production. In an industry 

where uniqueness is an increasingly 

valuable asset, especially in contrast 

to price, the ability to offer a range of 

colours and finishes, even for single 

pieces, is typically appreciated. This 

strategy has contributed to Pianca’s 

success and to the strengthening of its 

place in the global furniture market. 

However, the market situation has 

become even more challenging when 

increasingly competitive prices, not 



1 

The more efficient management of 

colour changeover, however, did not 

happen at the expense of product 

customisation — which, on the 

contrary, was further maximised, as 

described by Cefla. Stefano de Meio of 

Pianca’s Industrialisation & KPO Office 

mentioned among the advantages 

obtained from Cefla’s solutions the 

possibility of achieving optimal 

customisation through various colour 

combinations and even sample colours, 

in addition to minimising or eliminating 

altogether the time needed for 

changing colours on the machine, with a 

reduction of downtime. 

2 

just product uniqueness, have started 

to be a precondition. How is it possible 

to develop an efficient industrialised 

production process when, in actual 

practice, large-scale production is not 

applicable? 

“The challenges that Pianca posed 

to us spurred us to come up with the 

best system that could help them 

achieve their objectives,” said Cristian 

Giovannini, product manager of 

Cefla Finishing. To preserve Pianca’s 

corporate identity and strategies and 

allow the company to continue to 

offer quality as well as customisation, 

production had to change. 

ONE LINE FOR THREE OBSOLETE 

SYSTEMS 

According to Cefla Finishing, the weak 

link in Pianca’s production chain was 

the colour changeover process. Having 

to frequently stop the line to produce 

many different small batches affected 

their production efficiency. That was 

why optimising the colour changeover 

process was key to making a huge 

impact on Pianca’s productivity. 

Cefla therefore installed a new coating 

line to replace three obsolete systems, 

centralising the coating process in 

a single high-performance line. To 

address the customer’s brief — improve 

Pianca’s productivity and efficiency — 

Cefla specialists have implemented 

solutions allowing reductions 

in machine downtime and the 

automatisation of processes previously 

performed manually. One of these is 

Timeskip, Cefla’s device allowing the 

line robot to continue coating with one 

arm, while the other arm can carry out 

colour changeover or maintenance 

operations. 

The two-arm coating robot is the core 

part of the coating process. The two 

arms are able to operate independently 

and carry out colour changeover 

operations without stopping production 

on the line. The line is also equipped 

with: an automatic warehouse 

performing multiple functions; a line 

feeding buffer, designed to store the 

material to be coated, to then feed the 

line independently without needing 

any supervision by human operators; 

material storage to reduce colour 

changeovers on the return line; and 

a line unloading buffer, if operators 

are temporarily unavailable for these 

operations. 

The line also consists of an automatic 

material reading and identification 

system. The colour request is sent via a 

QR code scanner to the coating robot. 

The scanner is able to read the labels 

on each workpiece to be finished. A 

vertical oven is integrated into the line 

to complete the material drying cycle. 

Finally, the system is equipped with line 

software, to make line management 

easier in consideration of the degree 

of complexity linked with frequent 

customisation requirements. 

RESULTS 

The new finishing line allows the 

processing of small batches and 

single workpieces, thus reducing, 

or sometimes even eliminating 

altogether, machine downtime. Pianca 

thus managed to achieve the same 



or even better standards of quality, 

customisation and service, while 

cutting production costs. According 

to Cefla, Pianca now has satisfactory 

margins to continue to provide 

high-quality products and service at 

competitive prices. 

SUSTAINABILITY 

From a sustainability point of view, 

the new coating plant allows waste 

to be minimised, both in terms of 

downtime and in terms of product 

loss. The ultimate goal is to achieve 

greater productivity and a faster return 

on investment. The implementation 

of Timeskip and the integration with a 

mixing and colour changeover system 

not only reduce downtime, but also 

contribute to limiting paint waste, both 

during colour changeover and in terms 

of waste product disposal after each 

operation, resulting in lower waste 

management costs. 

PARTNERSHIP WITH CEFLA FINISHING 

The partnership and mutual trust 

established between Pianca and Cefla 

Finishing were the pillars underlying 

the successful implementation 

of the new production line. The 

manufacturers believed in Cefla to 

meet their needs in terms of quality, 

reliability and productivity. 

3 

4 

LEGEND 

1 Pianca has a 

batch-size-one 

design approach 

focused on the 

customisation 

of products and 

spaces 

2 Cefla’s new 

line allows 

various colour 

combinations 

and even 

sample colours, 

in addition to 

minimising or 

eliminating 

altogether the 

time needed for 

changing colours 

on the machine 

3 Optimising 

the colour 

changeover 

process was 

key to making 

a huge impact 

on Pianca’s 

productivity 

4 Cefla’s new 

coating line for 

Pianca 

5 The coating line 

replaced three 

obsolete systems, 

centralising the 

coating process 

in a single highperformance 

line 

A crucial success factor was the 

prompt assistance received during the 

early stages of system implementation. 

The timely management of requests 

by the Cefla Finishing team has 

strengthened a relationship based on 

trust. de Meio especially commended 

on the effective communication from 

Cefla, both from a commercial and 

from a technical point of view. 

5 

In conclusion, Pianca expressed the 

strong feeling of security deriving from 

its collaboration with Cefla Finishing, 

and confirmed that all expectations 

have been fully met. As de Meio 

described: “I would recommend Cefla 

to any company that is looking for 

productive dynamism, champions 

innovation and is after a well-structured 

and reliable partner.” P 



Enhancing manufacturing 

process quality: 

Baumer Inspection 

System implementation 

at V-T Industries 

By Bryon Shinall, production manager, V-T Industries Rome, Georgia, US 

V-T Industries, a manufacturer of 

commercial wood doors, laminate 

countertops, butcher block countertops, 

and other wooden crafts, has implemented 

the Baumer inspection system, a technology 

designed to optimise manufacturing 

process quality. This article delves into 

the results and benefits of installing the 

Baumer inspection system, highlighting its 

impact on quality improvement, resource 

optimisation, and overall operational 

efficiency. 

OPTIMAL RESULTS 

The installation of Baumer inspection 

system at V-T Industries has yielded 

optimal results in terms of quality 

enhancement. V-T Industries’ 

manufacturing process does not allow 

for effective visual inspection of each 

product during manufacturing and so 

with the implementation of Baumer’s 

solution, they have experienced an 

increased avoidance of rejects and 

complaints. Figures provided by the 

company indicate a notable reject rate 

of 5%, which meant enhanced product 

reliability and therefore higher customer 

satisfaction. 

1 

PERSONNEL COST SAVINGS 

The Baumer Scanner has not only improved 

quality but has also enabled V-T Industries 

1 



DEFECTS OCCURING AFTER BOARD PRESS 

The Baumer Scanner, installed after the 

board press, primarily detects defects such 

as surface imperfections, dimensional 

inaccuracies, and structural abnormalities. 

Defective parts identified by the scanner 

are segregated and subjected to further 

analysis to determine the root causes of 

the defects. Depending on the severity and 

nature of the defects, corrective actions 

such as rework, repair, or scrap disposal 

are initiated to ensure product quality and 

integrity. 

In conclusion, the implementation of the 

Baumer inspection system at V-T Industries 

has improved the company’s approach to 

quality assurance and process optimisation. 

Through its advanced capabilities, the 

Baumer Scanner has not only enhanced 

product quality and reliability but has also 

enabled greater cost savings, resource 

optimisation, and operational efficiency 

gains. As a results, V-T Industries continues 

to drive continuous improvement, poised 

for sustained growth and success in the 

competitive manufacturing landscape. P 

Optimizing Rip Saw 

w/ 2D scanner feeding system 

2 

MRS-450M / MRS-610M 

Heavy-duty, suitable for Mass production 

3~4 movable saw blades 

Cutting width: 450 mm / 610 mm 

Cutting 8~10 boards per minutes 

Legend 

1 Baumer ColourBrain MFC 4.0 is designed for the 

optimal inspection of melamine paper coated 

fibreboards 

2 With Baumer inspection system, V-T Industries 

experienced an increased avoidance of rejects and 

complaints 

to optimise personnel costs. Without the 

implementation of the Baumer Scanner, a team 

of two personnel would usually be involved in 

the quality inspection process. However, with 

the automated capabilities of the Baumer 

Scanner, V-T Industries has been able to 

reduce its workforce dedicated to quality 

inspection, thus increasing cost savings. 

MATERIAL AND TIME SAVINGS 

In addition to personnel cost savings, the 

Baumer inspection system has facilitated 

material and time savings for V-T Industries. 

By detecting defects with precision and 

efficiency, the scanner has minimised 

material wastage and rework requirements, 

leading to cost reductions and increased 

productivity. Moreover, the real-time 

inspection capabilities of the Baumer 

Scanner have reduced inspection cycle 

times, allowing V-T Industries to accelerate 

its production processes and meet customer 

demands more efficiently. 

Envision a 

GREENER Future 

Reducing material waste 

Labor-saving, Energy-saving 

MRS-340M 

For High-Mix Low-Volume Manufacturing, 

suitable for wood preparation in medium 

/ small factories 

2~3 movable saw blades 

Cutting width: 340 mm 

Cutting 4~5 boards per minutes 



High-performance 

cross-cutting times four 

Door and furniture manufacturer Sincol has completed 

its automatic production line at the Caçador site in Santa 

Catarina, Brazil, with the fourth C11 cross-cut saw from 

machine manufacturer Paul Maschinenfabrik, thus concluding a 

modernisation process that has been ongoing for many years. 

1 

With 1,300 employees and 550,000m 2 

of production area, Sincol aims 

to be the “best supplier of timber 

products and the most profitable and 

best company in the industry”. The 

vertical range of manufacture is high, 

so finger-jointed products for door 

leaves or frame profiles are produced 

in-house. With the new production line, 

Sincol manufactures finger-jointed 

lengths from pine wood for its own 

needs, but also for export. Due to its 

variety of products, Sincol processes 

the raw material from its own forestry 

sustainably and almost completely. 

2 

Paul Maschinenfabrik was able to 

convince the satisfied customer with the 

first three cross-cut lines, so for Sincol, 

there was no question of ordering the 

fourth, according to Paul. Since the C11 

is a fast optimising cross-cut saw, the 

Brazilian company received a system 

with high performance and added value. 

To ensure that the four cross-cut lines 

are supplied smoothly, Paul developed 

the scanner to have to demonstrate 

LEGEND 

1 Cross-cut system with four cross-cut lines, 

scanner and sorting system 

2 Distribution of the workpieces to four 

C11 cross-cut saws 

3 Sorting line with 24 ejection stations behind 

each cross-cut station 



all its skills in automatic defect detection. In 

addition to the usual wood features, it also 

detects small shakes, pitch pockets, blue stain 

and brown rot. The user-friendly optimisation 

software detects the surface structure, which 

is valuable for automatic classification and 

quality assessment. The workpieces to be cut 

are individually fed through the scanner and 

then distributed to the cross-cut lines with 

their optimisation data in such a way that 

there is always enough material available. 

Boards that do not have the required wood 

moisture content are discharged. 

The latest and therefore fastest generation 

of the C11 cross-cut saw from Paul is 

installed in Sincol’s current production line. 

“Our development engineers were able to 

significantly increase the performance of this 

model with sophisticated features compared 

to the previous model,” explained Manfred 

Buck, sales director of Paul Maschinenfabrik. 

The gap close function minimises the gaps 

between the incoming workpieces and 

produces an almost “endless” workpiece, as 

3 

described by Paul. The kick-out function 

accelerates the cut board out of the 

machine while the saw blade is still moving 

downwards. In combination with the further 

developed saw rocker, the C11 stands for 

a highly dynamic cross-cut system. The 

inclined cross-cut station and air-jet blowers 

at the saw blade ensure the safe removal 

of waste timber, which increases process 

reliability and therefore reduces the number 

of malfunctions. “For many years, the C11 

model has been standing for high reliability, 

accuracy as well as ease of maintenance and 

operation,” said Buck. 

In addition to the cross-cut saw, which is the 

centerpiece, sorting plays a decisive role in this 

system. Each circular sawing machine is followed by 

a 32m-long sorting conveyor with 24 ejectors. This 

configuration offers Sincol flexibility when sorting 

its various products and ensures that the finished 

workpieces are removed smoothly and quickly after 

cross-cutting. 

“Automation components such as destacking 

systems, sorting equipment or automatic stackers 

complement our cross-cut systems to create fully 

automatic lines — an effective way to counteract the 

shortage of skilled labour,” Buck concluded. P 



Dualtech Forma 

automatic paint sprayer 

In the spray painting sector, Giardina 

Group offers a range of solutions that 

has been expanded with a number 

of models: Rototech, Robotech, and 

Dualtech. The Dualtech Forma recently 

joined the range, aimed to tackle 

various spray painting issues from 

small productions to large volumes, in 

terms of quality, productivity, flexibility 

and sustainability. 

The Giardina Group collaborated 

with Pininfarina, an Italian design 

house, to design the new automatic 

sprayer. Pininfarina focused on three 

aspects when designing: essentiality 

through a streamlined and simplified 

design, reducing the number of 

components; diversity, expressed with 

a recognisable style; and innovation. 

The automatic Dualtech Forma spray 

machine is ideal for medium to high 

production rates and is designed to 

spray stain, primers and finishes onto 

all smooth or shaped surfaces. It is 

equipped with an infeed and outfeed 

belt conveyor. The self-cleaning 

conveyor system for the parts 

inside the spraying area is made 

of a 2,000mm-wide and 2,800mmlong 

belt, closed in a loop to ensure 

greater transfer efficiency. 

The Dualtech spraying technology, 

two opposing reciprocating units 

that can hold up to four guns each, 

provides an even application on 

all surfaces of the substrate to be 

painted, including the edges. The 

gun movement system is driven by 

a brushless motor. Dualtech Forma 

can consist of up to four independent 

painting circuits — one circuit has 

four guns — on request. 

The extraction and disposal system 

is located on both the right and left 

sides of the belt. The new painting 

area is redesigned to be ergonomic, 

allowing convenient front and rear 

access. The spraying room is made 

of carbon steel profiles and prepainted 

sheet metal panels. The air 

taken from the environment by an 

electric fan is filtered and evenly 

distributed inside the spray booth. 

Dualtech Forma is fitted with two 

additional air distribution plenums 

located at the inlet and outlet of the 



spray booth to keep the spray booth 

under vacuum, thus preventing 

the overspray from escaping and 

ensuring that the extracted air is fully 

filtered. The air distribution plenum 

ensures an efficient flow, thus 

reducing the paint overspray. 

Two longitudinal 2,000mm filter 

media, made of galvanised sheet 

metal steel with capacitive 

honeycomb paper filter, capture the 

overspray. An electric fan installed 

next to the filtration box, with dry 

filters, ensures the evacuation of 

all overspray from the spraying 

room, preventing the expulsion of 

particulate matter. 

The operator interface is provided 

by a 23in touch screen control 

unit for easy management of the 

production functions and data, 

display of alarms, start-up of saved 

work programmes and management 

of routine maintenance. The data, 

processed by the management 

software, is transmitted to the 

guns as ON or OFF signals. The 

dimensional reading device for the 

parts to be painted scans every 

5mm to optimise the painting phase 

and reduce consumption. Lastly, 

Dualtech Forma is equipped with 

an environment air supply and 

filtration unit, and can be fitted with 

an air heating and air conditioning 

system on request. P 



Economy in transition: 

Challenges and opportunities 

for European industry in 2024 

2024: a year full of challenges for the European economy, 

but also lucrative opportunities. How can companies 

master the wave of change and discover new opportunities 

for growth and efficiency with clever digitalisation and 

automation as well as the smart use of used machinery? 

1 

LEGEND 

1 Buying and selling 

used machines 

is a good way for 

companies to 

prepare for the 

challenges of 


2 Rising energy 

prices, shortage 

of skilled labour, 

scarcity of 

resources: the 

year 2024 will 

bring many 

challenges, but is 

AI or automation 

a solution? 

3 The year 

2024 brings 

opportunities 

for companies 

in the areas of 

digitalisation, 

automation and 

AI-supported 

technology 

In 2023, the European economy was 

impacted by external challenges 

such as high energy prices, inflation 

and the ongoing effects of global 

tensions. These factors led to 

general uncertainty and a dampened 

willingness to invest. The wood 

and metal market, central to many 

industries, was particularly affected by 

the price explosion. 

In 2024, companies will likely continue 

to be confronted with the effects of 

global political tensions, which are 

reflected in economic uncertainties. 

The availability and cost of supplies 

and market stability might also suffer. 

Companies will be forced to adapt 

their strategies, with innovations in 

digitalisation and sustainability serving 

as the key to coping. This year will also 

present the industry with challenges 

but also exciting opportunities. 

GLOBAL TENSIONS LEAD TO SUPPLY 

SHORTAGES AND MARKET FLUCTUATIONS 

The shortage of supplies will 

particularly affect important materials 

such as wood and metal. The limited 

availability of these resource materials 

is a direct consequence of the strong 

demand from countries such as China and 

the US. Rising material costs are driving 

up production costs. Supply chains could 

also be interrupted or delayed, which 

could lead to bottlenecks in production 

and the fulfilment of customer orders. 

This problem is further exacerbated 

by market volatility. Fluctuations in 

demand and pricing make planning and 

forecasting considerably more difficult 

for companies. This makes it difficult 

to develop and maintain long-term 

strategies. 



CHALLENGES AS SPRINGBOARD FOR 

OPPORTUNITIES 

Rising energy prices remain a 

significant concern for businesses of 

all sizes. This is because higher energy 

costs can lead to an increase in total 

cost of ownership, forcing companies 

to raise their prices, seek efficiencies 

or explore alternative energy sources. 

At the same time, the topic of 

sustainability is becoming even 

more important. With stricter 

environmental requirements and 

regulations, companies are faced with 

the task of adapting their production 

processes. This can mean investing 

in cleaner technologies, switching 

to more environmentally friendly 

materials, or implementing more 

efficient processes. Although these 

adjustments can be beneficial in the 

long term, they pose a challenge in the 

short term, particularly in terms of the 

associated costs and organisational 

changes. 

2 

Another significant challenge is the 

labour shortage. Qualified specialists 

could become scarce, particularly 

in specialised areas. In addition to 

investing in the training and further 

education of employees and improving 

working conditions, automation can 

also reduce the need for human labour. 

ONE STEP AHEAD WITH USED MACHINES 

The year 2024 will bring opportunities 

for companies in the areas of 

digitalisation, automation and 

AI-supported technology. This 

transformation will enable 

optimisation of operations and 

increased efficiency, from routine 

tasks to advanced data analysis. These 

technologies help to overcome labour 

shortages, increase productivity and 

reduce costs. 

The year will therefore require 

companies to be not only reactive, 

but also proactive. Companies will 

need the ability to adapt quickly. A 

willingness to innovate and a strong 

commitment to sustainability will be 

crucial. Companies that place these 

3 

aspects at the centre of their strategy 

will not only be able to master the 

challenges ahead, but also open up new 

opportunities for growth. 

In 2024, in the face of multiple 

challenges, buying and selling used 

machinery offers an effective strategy 

for businesses. Purchasing used 

machinery through, for example, 

Surplex, an industrial auction 

house for used machinery, offers 

a cost-effective way to expand or 

renew production capacity without 

the high cost of buying new. Used 

machines can also represent modern 

technology and efficiency. There 

are numerous high-quality, energyefficient 

models on offer, for instance 

from insolvencies. Such machines, 

including advanced industrial robots, 

are suitable for automation projects 

and help companies to optimise their 

production processes and reduce 

energy costs. Another key advantage of 

used machines is that they are available 

regardless of current supply bottlenecks 

for raw materials such as metal or 

electronic components. 

At the same time, selling machines 

that are no longer needed via Surplex 

frees up capital that can be invested in 

important areas such as digitalisation 

or technological innovations. Surplex 

simplifies the buying and selling process 

through a user-friendly platform, an 

international network and competent 

all-round service, enabling companies 

to both save costs and increase their 

competitiveness in an economically 

challenging year like 2024. P 


MATERIALS 

Grading US hardwood: 

A primer by AHEC 

The American Hardwood Export Council (AHEC) has created a new 

and updated video workshop to provide a simplified but informative 

explanation of the grading rules for American hardwood lumber. 

This article details the video. 

Clear face cutting: A cutting free of defects 

on one side of the board, with the reverse side 

being sound. Sound cutting refers to the board’s 

structural integrity. 

TYPES OF GRADES 

Generally, American hardwood gradings can 

be divided into two types. The upper grades, 

which consist of FAS, FAS One-Face (F1F) and 

Selects, provide users with long clear pieces, 

while the Common grades, primarily Number 1 

Common (No. 1C) and Number 2 Common (No. 

2C), are designed to be re-sawn into shorter 

clear pieces. The upper grades are suitable for 

applications which require a heavy percentage 

of long wide cuttings, such as furniture, door 

frames, slats and panels, while Common grades 

are designed for furniture parts, and plank and 

strip floorings. 

A hundred and twenty-five years ago, the 

National Hardwood Lumber Association 

(NHLA) implemented the grading rules for 

American hardwood. These rules are still used 

today and provide both the buyer and seller a 

consistent language for hardwood trade. 

DEFINITIONS 

Grading is designed with the furniture trade in 

mind and adopts a visual approach to provide a 

measurable percentage of clear wood for each 

grade, thus determining the cost and waste 

factors of a board. Some terms that NHLA and 

the US wood industry use in grading: 

Surface measure: The surface area of a board 

in square feet, multiplying the width of the 

board by its length, and divided by 12. The 

result is dropped to the nearest whole number. 

So, for instance, a 6in-wide by 12ft-long board, 

divided by 12, has a surface measure of six. 

Cutting: The area that users measure to 

determine the grading. These cuttings typically 

have to be of a certain size. The cuttings have to 

be parallel to the edge of the board. Defects do 

not count within the measurement, and have to 

be ‘removed’, though, according to NHLA, these 

cuttings are not actually cross-cut or ripped, 

but only visualised. 

Cutting unit: 1in by 1ft of board surface. This 

unit is used to determine whether a board has 

enough clear surface to make a certain grade. 

Different grades require different percentages 

of cutting unit. 

FAS: FAS stands for ‘firsts and seconds’, derived 

from the original grades of ‘firsts’ and ‘seconds’. 

According to AHEC, the advent of veneer logs 

took a lot of the ‘firsts’ away, so they were 

combined together to create FAS. 

The minimum standard for a FAS grade board 

is at least 6in-wide and 8ft-long. The cutting 

size to measure the percentage of the clear 

wood has to be 4in by 5ft increments, or 3in by 

7ft minimally. To determine how many cuttings 

are allowed for a FAS grade board, the surface 

measure is divided by four. The percentage 

of clear wood required to meet the minimum 

standard for FAS is 83 and one-third percent, or 

10/12ths of the board need to be clear to meet 

FAS grade. 

For example, for a 6in-wide by 12ft-long board, 

the surface measure is six. From this surface 


MATERIALS 

measure, the number of cuttings allowed is 

determined by dividing six with four, resulting 

in 1 and a half, though the fraction should 

be dropped and rounded down to one. The 

number of cutting units needed is multiplying 

the surface measure by 10, so 6 x 10 is 60 

cutting units. From here, 10/12ths of the 60 

units should be clear and free of defects. 

No. 1C: This grade is often referred to as 

the ‘cabinet grade’ in the US because of its 

adaptability to the standard sizes of kitchen 

cabinet doors. No. 1C does not mean that it 

has more defects in this grade, but rather, it 

is seen as having less clear wood in smaller 

pieces. That also makes it cheaper than using 

FAS grade lumber for cabinetry. The wood 

waste from the cuttings can also be reused 

when manufacturing furniture. 

The minimum size of a No. 1C board is 3in by 

4ft, and the minimum size of the cutting is 3in 

by 3ft increments, or 4in by 2ft. The number of 

cuttings allowed is a different formula than FAS 

grade: It is surface measure plus one, divided 

by three. The total area required to be clear is 66 

and two-thirds percent, or surface measure 

times eight, which tells how many 1in by 12in 

pieces needed. 

F1F and Selects: If a board has two sides, 

one of which is poorer than the other — for 

example, one side of the board is FAS, the 

other side if No. 1C — then the board has the 

potential to meet F1F or Selects grade. The 

difference between them is F1F needs to 

be 6in by 8ft, while Selects only needs to be 

4in by 6ft. There is a limitation: The wane 

cannot exceed half the length of the board 

on either side. Additionally, on the 1 Common 

side, the wane cannot exceed one-third of 

the width. 

No. 2C: The No. 2C grade, often referred to 

as the ‘economy grade’ because of its price 

point, can be split into two sub-grades, 2AC 

and 2BC, depending on if the user wants 

clear or sound cuttings. Both have the same 

requirements, but 2AC requires all cuttings 

to be clear, while for 2BC, cuttings are only 

required to be sound. No. 2C is a combination 

of both 2AC and 2BC. 

The minimum size board for No. 2C 

grade is the same as No. 1C, which is 3in 

by 4ft, and there is only one minimum 

size cutting of 3in by 2ft. The number 

of cuttings allowed is surface measure 

divided by two, but only 50% of the board 

needs to be usable. No. 2C grade lumber 

is typically used for small furniture parts, 

picture frames, and similar things. 

In the US, the number one usage for 

No. 2C grade lumber is for flooring, for 

three-quarter, two and a quarter, or three 

and a quarter inches wide planks. 

ACCEPTABLE AND UNACCEPTABLE DEFECTS 

The following defects or visual anomalies 

are accepted in a clear cutting: 

Heartwood and sapwood: Heartwood is 

the mature wood, which is often darker, 

extending from the sapwood to the pith. 

Sapwood is the lighter coloured wood 

growing from inside the bark to the 

heartwood. When ordering hardwoods, 

buyers can specify either more sapwood 

or heartwood, depending on the species. 


MATERIALS 

Glassworm: Random mineral-like tracts, 

often associated with ash wood. 

Streaks or spots: Gum streaks in cherry are 

natural and are thus accepted. Likewise, 

mineral streaks ranging from olive to blackish 

brown, common in tulipwood, are accepted. 

Burl: A twist or swirl in the grain of the wood. 

Sticker mark: Marks left behind from a 

seasoning sticker, a slightly different shade 

from the rest of the board. 

The following defects might be allowed on 

a typical board, but not allowed in a clear 

face cutting, or even a sound cutting. Some 

defects might not be allowed in a clear 

cutting but allowed in a sound cutting, and 

some defects are not allowed in both: 

with an unsound knot is not accepted in both 

clear and sound cuttings. However, if the knot 

is smaller than half an inch, it might still be 

accepted for a sound cutting. 

Bark pocket: A bark-filled distortion in the 

grain pattern. This is not allowed in a clear 

cutting, but accepted in sound. 

Sound knot: A knot solid across the board’s 

surface, though it should show no indication 

of decay. This is allowed in a sound cutting, 

but not clear cutting. 

Decay: The breaking down of wood substance 

by fungi. If the sapwood is discoloured, that 

means it is undergoing the initial stages of 

decay. Though not allowed in sound or clear 

cutting, the decayed section can be removed 

and the rest of the board can be graded. 

cutting, however, the two split wood boards 

can still be measured and graded. In other 

words, the split itself is no good, but the 

seller or buyer can cut around it for the 

manufacturing of the split pieces. 

Wormholes or grubholes: Wormholes refer 

to holes the board ranging from 1/6in or 

1/4in, and grubholes are holes larger than 

1/4in. Wormholes are allowed in a sound 

cutting, but not in a clear cutting, and 

grubholes are unallowed for both. 

Wane: Untrimmed bark or wood caused by 

the round nature of the tree or log, never 

allowed in a clear or sound cutting. 

Pith: The small soft core at the structural 

centre of the tree, never allowed in a clear 

or sound cutting. 

Sticker stains: These stains are where the 

drying sticker was, typically grey in colour 

from stickers used to season lumber. These 

are defects unallowed in a clear cutting, but it 

is allowed in a sound cutting. 

Unsound knot: A circular knot that once 

formed the base of a branch or twig and has 

a pith centre. In some cases, the wood itself 

might be missing. In such cases the board 

Checks: A lengthwise opening on the face 

of the board resulted from rapid or faulty 

drying. If the checked surface can be planed 

or sanded off, that would be acceptable. If 

not, it would only be considered for sound 

cutting. 

Split: A lengthwise separation of the wood 

created as the wood dries. A split board itself 

is not allowed in clear face cutting or sound 

Bird pecks: Small blemishes in the grain 

pattern resulting from bird pecking that 

sometimes contain ingrown bark. If present, 

the board would not be considered for a 

sound cutting. The species exceptions to 

this defect are hickory and elm. P 

This article was adapted from AHEC’s YouTube video, 

presented by Dana Spessert, chief inspector of NHLA. 

Images: Petr Krejci 


MATERIALS 

Birch wood market: 

A snapshot 

The market for birch wood products 

was estimated to be worth US$2.51bn 

in 2021, and is now expected to grow 

at a CAGR of 5.2% to reach $3.62bn 

by 2031. 

Birch wood is known for its smooth 

texture and light hue. Because of 

its aesthetic appeal and versatility, 

it is preferred by designers and 

artists. Consumer preferences, 

interior design trends, technological 

developments in wood processing, 

and sustainable forestry methods 

are some of the variables that impact 

the market for products made from 

birch wood. The market for products 

made from birch wood is broad 

and includes a variety of products, 

such as plywood, veneers, solid 

wood furniture, flooring planks, 

and ornamental embellishments. 

In turn, the applications can be 

found in industries such as furniture 

manufacture, interior design, flooring, 

cabinetry, and handicrafts. 

Birch wood is a popular option for 

both traditional and contemporary 

designs because of its homogeneous 

texture and fine grain. It is used 

by manufacturers because of its 

workability, which enables fine 

craftsmanship and detailed details. 

Additionally, birch wood products are 

prized for their longevity, resilience, 

hardness and strength, which make 

them appropriate for use in both 

commercial and domestic settings. 

In the global market for birch wood 

products, engineered flooring is 

projected to hold a sizable proportion, 

while furniture is predicted to 

dominate. Its smooth texture and 

light hue make it suitable for a range 

of design aesthetics, including 

modern and rustic. Because of its 

robustness, birch is a good material for 

structural components like drawers, 

table legs, and chair frames. It also 

offers a consistent surface for fine 

detailing, which means veneers can 

also appreciate it. Birch’s inherent 

resistance to warping and its good 

stain and finish resistance make it a 

desirable material for furniture. 

The market for birch wood products is 

also changing to include eco-friendly 

certifications and procedures as 

sustainability gains traction in 

consumer decisions. This ensures that 

birch forests are responsibly managed 

for future generations. 

Based on a study, the Asia-Pacific 

area is positioned to take the lead in 

the global market for items made from 


MATERIALS 

birch wood. A number of variables, 

such as growing industrialisation, 

expanding construction projects, and a 

growing need for flooring and furniture 

applications in major economies like 

China, India, and Japan, support this 

predicted domination. This region 

offers significant potential for the 

continued growth and improvement 

of the birch wood market due to its 

notable capacities for both production 

and consumption. 

LEGEND 

1 Birch plywood 

used for cabinets 

2 Birch wood 

flooring 

EVENTS THAT HAVE IMPACTED BIRCH 

WOOD MARKET 

On 6 Apr 2021, Georgia-Pacific, a 

division of Koch Industries, released 

a statement. They disclosed in this 

disclosure that they had purchased 

Norbord, a participant in the global 

wood-based panel manufacturing 

market. Through the completion of this 

transaction, Georgia-Pacific expanded 

its product and service capabilities 

while strengthening its position in the 

birch wood product market. 

1 

Another noteworthy event occurred 

on 4 Dec 2019, when DuraSense 

was introduced by Stora Enso, a 

supplier and developer of sustainable 

solutions for paper, biomaterials, 

wooden structures, and packaging. 

This biocomposite material is created 

by combining polymers and wood 

fibres. Through the introduction of 

this technology, Stora Enso creates 

a viable substitute for conventional 

plastics, opening up new opportunities 

for the market for birch wood 

products. 

GrowDex BioInks, the newest 

technology from UPM-Kymmene 

Corporation, made a debut on 17 Aug 

2020 with its biocompatible hydrogels, 

which are reportedly indispensable 

instruments for applications involving 

3D cell culture. With the introduction 

of a tailored and sustainable solution 

for tissue engineering and regenerative 

medicine, this technology has 

implications for the market for birch 

wood products. P 

Source: Adroit Market Research 

2 


FLOORING 

ClickControl: 

A sustainable solution 

LEGEND 

1 ClickControl 

2 ClickControl scans and inspects the click system of floor panels 

1 

2 

The ClickControl concept is a technology 

developed by Unilin and built by PREWI, designed 

to ensure precise and efficient results in the 

quality control process of the flooring industry 

while promoting sustainability and safety. 

Its core components include advanced sensors 

and imaging technology, which enable it to scan 

and inspect the click system of floor panels. 

ClickControl captures detailed data and images, 

instantly comparing them to a master drawing 

to assess the quality and accuracy of the click 

system’s milling. Compared to a traditional 

control with the projector which enlarges the 

click system, ClickControl is more accurate and 

precise in measuring the click because of the 

scanning system. 

The implementation is non-destructive, 

meaning it does not require slicing panels 

or compromising their usability. Traditional 

quality control methods often involved cutting 

panels into thin slices for inspection, resulting 

in product waste and a potentially unsafe 

working environment for operators. In contrast, 

ClickControl safeguards both materials and the 

wellbeing of operators by minimising the need 

for such destructive practices, which makes 

it a sustainable solution as well. It reduces the 

need for excessive testing, rework, and the 

production of substandard or defective flooring 

materials. This translates to less waste in the 

manufacturing process, promoting a more 

sustainable approach to production. 

ClickControl also removes the requirement 

for panel slicing, which reduces the risk 

of accidents related to sawing, minimises 

exposure to dust, and promotes a safer working 

environment for operators. This safety aspect is 

closely linked to the topic of healthy products, 

as it contributes to a cleaner, pollutant-free 

manufacturing atmosphere and aligns with 

certifications for low-emission and lowpollutant 

materials and processes. 

Unilin’s click systems, especially Uniclic, 

strives for easy production for flooring or panel 

manufacturers. They have high tolerance, so 

even if there are small milling mistakes, they 

can still lock optimally. With ClickControl, 

Unilin wants to make it even easier to produce, 

while also ensuring the quality for distributors, 

retailers, and consumers. 

ClickControl ensures that flooring products 

meet the highest quality standards and 

certifications. This is so that customers can 

purchase products of optimal quality and safety. 

By eliminating the risk of substandard products 

and reducing waste, it helps conserve resources 

and promotes an eco-conscious approach to 

manufacturing. This, in turn, helps reduce the 

environmental footprint of the flooring industry, 

making it a significant player in the pursuit of 

sustainable production. 

ClickControl is reportedly suitable for operators 

of all skill levels. It gives precise instructions 

for the operators so they instantly know which 

changes to make to the milling line. In addition 

to a periodical visit of an Unilin engineer, Unilin 

licensees will now have an intelligent quality 

device in-house that will explain how to keep 

milling quality at the highest possible level. P 


STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS 

World of Volvo 

entertainment and exhibitions. 

This building, designed by Danish 

architectural firm Henning 

Larsen, also includes interactive 

exhibitions, alongside unique culinary 

experiences to provide a dynamic 

space for people and ideas. 

The architecture was inspired by 

nature and the ambition was that 

the building emulated a giant tree 

growing out of rocks. “Since it will 

be shaped like a tree, there is not a 

right angle anywhere, which makes 

it quite outstanding,” said Thomas 

Thompson, project manager for the 

building. 

The multi-storey structure is made 

of cross-laminated timber (CLT) 

and glue-laminated timber (glulam) 

certified by the Programme for the 

Endorsement of Forest Certification 

(PEFC) and is designed around the 

Swedish concept of Allemansrätten 

or “the right of public access”, 

as such World of Volvo invites 

everyone to roam free and explore 

the surrounding nature without 

disturbing or destroying it. 

Location: Gothenburg, Sweden 

Architecture firms: Henning Larsen, 

and Fredblad Arkitekter 

Timber structure engineering: WIEHAG 

PEFC-certified timber supplier: Stora Enso, WIEHAG 

Photography: Rasmus Hjortshøj, 

World of Volvo, and Henning Larsen 

Text: PEFC 

Potentially the largest and most 

complex timber building in Scandinavia 

has been built in Gothenburg’s new 

event district. The “one-of-a-kind 

experience hub” covers 22,000m 2 and is 

a joint venture between Volvo Cars and 

Volvo Group. 

The goal was to create a visitor 

destination and hub for inspiration, 

1 

The interior comprises three 

cylinders made of timber that 

provides space for exhibitions, 

conferences and performances. The 

open space in between is empty 

except for the sculptural stairs. The 

building has a diameter of 110m with 

several intermediate levels. The floorto-ceiling 

glass facade allows the 

building to merge with the nature in 

its surroundings and allowing people 

to view the inside from the outside. 

The beams and columns are made of 

glulam, with the steel connections 

between the timber components 

were calculated by WIEHAG with 

dimensional accuracy. For a 

timber building with such complex 

architecture, a high degree of 

precision is important: WIEHAG’s 

computer-controlled manufacturing 

enabled the imposing, curved 

components to be precisely cut and 

prefabricated. 


STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS 

2 

3 

4 

Three of the gigantic ‘heart’ glulam 

beams are 35m-long, 1.8m-wide 

and weigh 14 tonnes each, needing 

two cranes to lift it in place. In total 

approximately 6,000m 3 of wood will 

used in the structure. The roof will be 

covered with CLT sheets that form 

grassy hills, for a green roof scape. The 

sides of the building will be made up by 

glass sheets to create a light and airy 

atmosphere. 

design tradition,” said Martin 

Stenberg Ringnér, head of the World 

of Volvo design at Henning Larsen 

Architects. “We have created a symbol 

for the future, both in material and 

architecture and we span the timber, 

as a structural material, to extreme 

lengths. It is the most advanced 

construction we at Henning Larsen has 

ever been part of creating. It will be a 

true landmark in Gothenburg.” 

Legend 

1 The beams and columns are made of glulam, with the steel 

connections between the timber components were calculated by 

WIEHAG with dimensional accuracy 

2 A look from inside the World of Volvo 

3 WIEHAG’s computer-controlled manufacturing enabled the 

imposing, curved components to be precisely cut and prefabricated 

4 World of Volvo under construction 

5 The architecture was inspired by nature and the ambition was that 

the building emulated a giant tree growing out of rocks 

5 

“We have created a building that 

captures the synthesis of the Volvo 

brand, so it is full of ‘omtanke’ — 

open, warm and welcoming — and 

with roots deep in the Scandinavian 

Sustainability has been an important 

factor for the building and overall 

approach. The building will be certified 

with both LEED Gold, which is based 

on the building’s environmental 

impact, and WELL Gold, which aims to 

highlight social sustainability. Work on 

World of Volvo has finished and is open 

to visitors since April 2024. P 



The potential of 

certified oil palm trunks: 

A sustainable future for wood 

1 

Malaysia’s palm oil industry has a 

strong competitive edge with regards 

to efforts to support sustainable 

palm oil production. As one of the 

large-scale producers and exporters 

of palm oil, with 5.65 million hectares 

oil palm tree planted area, Malaysian 

producers are exporting about 24.5 

million tonnes of certified palm oil 

and palm-based products in 2023. 

The total export revenue of palm 

oil and palm-based products from 

Malaysia is around RM95bn. The oil 

palm tree, primarily cultivated for 

its fruit, holds an often-overlooked 

resource in its trunk. After the 

commercial lifespan of 25 years is 

reached, the oil palms are replanted, 

and the trunk of the oil palm tree is 

typically considered waste and left to 

decompose. However, with continuous 

research and development as well as 

advancements in technology, oil palm 

trunks (OPTs) can be transformed into 

valuable materials: certified palm 

wood. 

SUSTAINABLE SOURCING WITH MSPO 

AND RSPO CERTIFICATIONS 

Repurposing certified OPT into 

palm wood products offers a 

sustainable alternative to traditional 

timber sources. With certifications 

under Malaysian Sustainable 

Palm Oil (MSPO) and Roundtable 

on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO), 

stringent standards ensure the 

sourcing of OPTs adheres to 

sustainable practices, including 

responsible land management, 

conservation of biodiversity, and the 

fair treatment of workers. The MSPO 

certification aims to ensure that 

the oil palm cultivation in Malaysia 

meets environmental, social and 

economic criteria, ensuring the 

sustainable development of the palm 

oil industry. Additionally, the RSPO 

certification aims to ensure that oil 

palm plantations are sustainable 

minimising negative impacts on 

the environment and communities. 

These dual certifications target 



for the utilisation of palm wood to 

not only minimise environmental 

impact but also to uphold social and 

ethical standards, contributing to the 

promotion of sustainable forestry 

practices globally. 

ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS 

Deforestation, driven by the demand 

for timber, agricultural expansion, and 

urbanisation, leads the environmental 

crisis. Trees, essential for absorbing 

carbon dioxide and regulating the 

climate, are being felled at alarming 

rates, significantly contributing to 

greenhouse gas emissions. As forests 

disappear, global temperatures rise, 

extreme weather issues are being 

reported and biodiversity declines. 

With the undeniable relationship 

between deforestation and climate 

change, there is a pressing need 

for sustainable timber alternatives. 

This has prompted a re-evaluation 

of traditional practices, leading to 

a search for innovative alternatives 

like certified palm wood, to provide 

sustainable alternatives. 

As research and development efforts 

continue to expand, certified palm 

wood has emerged as a viable solution. 

Despite initial perceptions, it exhibits 

strength and durability comparable to 

traditional timber woods, addressing 

the demand for robust materials in 

various applications. By repurposing 

waste material, this practice not only 

reduces greenhouse gas emissions 

associated with decomposition but 

also eases the pressure on natural 

forests. 

ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES AND 

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT 

The utilisation of certified OPT for 

the production of palm wood not only 

benefits the environment but also 

presents economic opportunities. By 

adding value to a considered waste 

resource, the production of palm 

wood can generate additional income 

for farmers and plantation owner, 

contributing to economic growth and 

sustainable development. 

The repurposing of certified OPT into 

wood products represents a promising 

solution for enhancing sustainability 

across industries. By introducing 

this renewable resource which is 

sourced from certified MSPO and 

RSPO plantations, IOI Palm Wood not 

only reduces waste and environmental 

impact but also creates economic 

opportunities. P 

Inspiring the next “material 

revolution” by creating sustainable 

and high-performance materials 

from oil palm waste, Peter Fitch, 

together with IOI, have set up IOI 

Palm Wood to commercialise this 

untapped potential. 

LEGEND 

1 The total export revenue of palm oil and 

palm-based products is around RM95bn 

2 The MSPO and RSPO certifications 

ensure the sourcing of OPTs adheres to 

sustainable practices 

2 The oil palm tree, primarily cultivated 

for its fruit, holds an often-overlooked 

resource in its trunk 

2 3 


Machinery spotlight: What’s being 

featured at Hanoi Wood Expo 

Furniture manufacturers at Hanoi looking to level 

up their production capabilities can find a range 

of competitively-priced and smart machinery 

at the upcoming Hanoi Wood Expo, all from 

well-established global brands such as Quoc 

Duy, Thuong Nguyen, Nanxing Machinery, KDT, 

Technik Associates, Jun Shiau, and many more. 

Find out what will be exhibited at 5,000m 2 

of the National Exhibition Construction 

Center (NECC) from 28 May-1 Jun 

2024 — from fully and semi-automatic 

CNC machining centres to sanders, 

edgebanders, tenoners, drilling machines 

and more. P 

HALL A5A 

BOOTH NUMBER : 

6098 

EXHIBITOR : 

NANXING MACHINERY CO. LTD 

Model : NB7CJ 

Type of machine : EDGE BANDING MACHINE 

Model : NCB612DX 

Type of machine : 

CNC 6-SIDED DRILLING MACHINE 

Model : NBC332 


EDGE BANDING MACHINE 

Model : NB7PCG 

Type of machine : EDGE BANDING MACHINE WITH V-BELT 

& DOUBLE GLUING UNITS 

Model : NCG2812LE 

Type of machine : CNC NESTING 

MACHINE WITH AL + UL 


HALL A5B 


5078 

EXHIBITOR : 

KDT VIETNAM 

Model : KN-2409NL 

Type of machine : NC PANEL SAW 

Model : KN-3019V 

Type of machine : ENGRAVING MACHINE 

Model : KE-368 


Model : KD-612KS 

Type of machine : ENGRAVING MACHINE 

Model : KS-832D 

Type of machine : HORIZONTAL NC DRILLING MACHINE 

Model : KE-493G (40) 


Model : KE-399 



Model : 

KE-496GUC4 Laser3.0s 


EDGE BANDING 

MACHINE 


HALL A5C 


3110 

EXHIBITOR : 

FUNING 

Model : FN-1218 


MULTI-STATION FIVE-AXIS 

MACHINING CENTER 

Model : FN-1218-A 


MULTI-STATION 

FIVE-AXIS MACHINING 

CENTER (OPTIONAL 

COVER) 

Model : FN-5013 

Type of machine : TENON AND 

TENON MACHINING CENTER 

(OPTIONAL COVER) 

Model : FZ960JEC 

Type of machine : AUTOMATIC EDGE BANDING MACHINE 

Model : FHX9ZT 

Type of machine : INTELLIGENT 

CUTTING PRODUCTION LINE 

HALL A5B 


5138 

EXHIBITOR : 

UNION BROTHER (CHINA) CO.,LTD 

Model : SMARK-O 

Type of machine : AUTO MEASURE AND OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM 

Model : SPEED300 

Type of machine : OPTIMIZING CROSS CUT SAW 


SHOW PREVIEW 

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TRY CANADIAN WOOD 

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A range of high-quality certified lumber from sustainably 

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được quản lý bền vững của tỉnh bang British Columbia, Canada. 


HALL A5B 


5068 

EXHIBITOR : 

QUOC DUY - CABINETMASTER 

Model : LC 700 3 

Type of machine : CUVRE EDGE BANDING MACHINE 

Model : PRO R1B 

Type of machine : CNC ROUTER MACHINE 

Model : EVA 8200SF 

Type of machine : SEMI J/C AUTOMATIC 


Model : EVA 280 

Type of machine : 5 FUNCTION AUTOMATIC EDGE BANDING 

MACHINE 

Model : UNI 3000R6 

Type of machine : HIGH SPEED SIDE HOLE CNC DRILLING 

MACHINE 

Model : EVA 695 

Type of machine : 7 FUNCTIONS EDGE BANDING WITH 

CORNER AND PRE-MILLING 

Model : COMBINE ARC12 

Type of machine : ACRYLIC 

NOLINE EDGE BANDING 

MACHINE 


HALL A5C 


3059 

EXHIBITOR : 

SHANDONG ZHONGXUAN INTELLIGENT 

CO.,LTD 

Model : ZX5870A 


CNC WALLBOARD DOUBLE 

EDGES SLOTTING MACHINE 

Model : ZX5870A 

Type of machine : GANTRY LOADING AND UNLOADING PARAMETERS 

HALL A5B 


5118 

EXHIBITOR : 

SHIJIAZHUANG CANGAO HIGH 

FREQUENCY MACHINERY CO., LTD. 


AUTOMATIC HF(RF) BOARD 

JOINING PRODUCTION LINE 


HF(RF)WOODEN FRAME 

JOINING MACHINE 

(INTELLIGENT) 

Type of machine : HF(RF)HOT 

PRESS MACHINE FOR WOOD 

BENDING&FORMING 

Type of machine : FLEXIBLE 

THROUGH ASSEMBLY MACHINE 


HALL A5B 


5108 

EXHIBITOR : 

TRUONG PHUNG IMPORT EXPORT CO., TLD 

Model : CF1300# 


FULL-PRECISION 

DOUBLE-ROLL 

COATING MACHINE 

Model : 1300# 

Type of machine : UV ROLLER 

COATING LINE 

Model : CF1300# -02 


THREE-LAMP 

UV DRYER 

Model : CFRD1300-03 


UPPER FLOATED 

LACQUER SANDER 

Model : CF1300# -04 


DUST REMOVER 

Model : CF1300# -05 


BELT CONVEYOR 

Model : CF1300# -06 


CORNERING CONVEYOR 

Model : CF1300# -07 


ROLLER CONVEYOR 

Model : CF1300# -08 


DOUBLE-SIDED GLUE 

SPREADER FOR WOOD 

PLYWOOD 

UBBER ROLLER SERIES 

ROLLER BRUSH SERIES 


HALL A5A 


6120 

EXHIBITOR : 

RIKEN VIET NAM 

Model : MT TRHG1300 


MT SEGMENTED PAD 

SANDING SERIES 


THE LAMINATING LINE 

HALL A5A 


6018 

EXHIBITOR : 

THUONG NGUYEN WOOD WORKING 

MACHINE COMPANY 

Model : CNC ROUTER TN-481 


CNC ROUTER 3 AXIS MACHINE 

Model : TN-1040H 


HIGH FREQUENCY WOOD BOARD 

JOINTING MACHINE 


HALL A5B 


5028 

EXHIBITOR : 

TRUONG HUNG MACHINERY CO., LTD. 

JUN SHIAU MACHINERY CO., LTD. 

TECHNIK ASSOCIATES, INC. 

Model : BSD-31300+FSD-3130 

Type of machine : SANDER 

Model : BSD-900+FSD-290 


TOP AND BOTTOM 

SANDER 

Model : DET-2000-H8MS 


DOUBLE END TENONER 

HALL A5C 


3078 

EXHIBITOR : 

HARBIN HUAHAI WOOD DRYING 

EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURING CO. , LTD 

Model : HHJ-100 

Type of machine : HUAHAI 100M³ 

WOOD DRYING KILN 


Sylva Wood Expo: 

The platform to solve 

current market woes 

where every second counts. What 

trends and changes will occur in the 

international and domestic timber 

industry this year? These answers 

can be found at the upcoming Sylva 

Wood Expo. 

Sylva Wood Expo 

2018, the last edition 

before COVID-19 

struck 

From 24-26 Jun 2024, Sylva Wood 

Expo will open its doors for the 

fifth time to stakeholders of the 

wood and woodworking industry in 

Shanghai, China. Jointly organised 

by Pablo Publishing & Exhibition, the 

China Timber and Wood Products 

Distribution Association (CTWPDA), 

and the Shanghai Timber Trade 

Association, Sylva Wood Expo is 

an international exhibition focused 

primarily on showcasing raw materials 

for the wood industry. Exhibits 

cover hardwood, softwood, fingerjointed 

boards, solid wood veneers, 

engineered boards, wood veneers, 

decorative panels, veneer panels, and 

engineered wood, among others. 

The future of furniture production and 

manufacturing may vary according to 

different perspectives, but arguably, 

with the continuous growth in 

furniture demand, there will also be 

the proportionate increase in demand 

for intelligent and environmentally 

friendly methods of production and 

manufacturing. Furthermore, the 

improvement of the home environment 

has gradually become an important 

aspect of the aspirations of many 

households towards a better quality 

of life; consumers have higher 

expectations for concepts such as 

smart products, happiness, health, and 

security. 

In the fiercely competitive wood and 

woodworking market, companies 

active in the upstream and downstream 

supply chains must remain resilient 

in the complex market environment 

2 

Exhibitors from all over the world, 

including China, the US, France, 

Thailand, Malaysia, Russia, Germany, 

and Canada will gather at the raw 

materials trade exhibition. Since 

its inauguration in 2015, Sylva 

Wood Expo has received strong 

support from various domestic and 

international industry organisations 

and enterprises, including the 

American Hardwood Export Council 

(AHEC), Malaysian Timber Council 

(MTC), Softwood Export Council 

(SEC), Thai Timber Association, the 

Russian Timber Industry Association, 

French Timber, Canada Wood, 

the National Hardwood Lumber 

Association, the Quebec Wood 

Export Bureau (QWEB), the CTWPDA, 

and the Shanghai Timber Trade 

Association. 

The development of China’s 

customised home furnishing 

industry, especially in the field of 

whole-house customisation, is facing 

multiple factors that drive its growth, 

such as consumption upgrades, 

technological advancements, and 

market demand. With the continuous 

expansion of the domestic furniture 

customisation market, customised 

cabinet and wardrobe enterprises 

have not only been focusing on their 

respective fields but also forming 


closer cooperative relationships with one 

another, pushing each other to greater strides 

and improvement. 

This development indicates that the growth of 

China’s customised home furnishing industry 

will have a significant impact on raw material 

procurement. In particular, the demand for 

raw materials will increase: To maintain 

cost-effectiveness, custom home furnishing 

companies need to closely monitor changes in 

the raw material market and adopt strategies 

to deal with possible price fluctuations. 

LEGEND 

1 Sylva Wood is 

an international 

exhibition focused 

primarily on 

showcasing raw 

materials for the 

wood industry.The 

exhibition promotes 

raw material trading 

across different 

countries 

2 Beautiful booths 

showcasing wood in 

its varied uses will be 

on display 

1 

In the long term, sustainable development, 

customised services and digital technology 

will become important development 

directions for the furniture market. This 

means that the custom home furnishing 

industry will have to pay more attention to 

using environmentally friendly materials and 

improving production efficiency, thereby 

affecting the selection and procurement 

strategies of raw materials. Companies 

need to adapt to market changes, optimise 

procurement strategies to cope with 

fluctuations in raw material prices, and 

seize opportunities brought by sustainable 

development and technological innovation. 

Which is why Sylva Wood Expo is now more 

important than ever: Across three days 

at the ShanghaiMart Expo, the exhibition 

is committed to building an international 

high-quality offline trade exchange platform. 

This year’s edition aims to facilitate more 

precise trade connections between upstream 

and downstream enterprises by setting up 

a dedicated Trade Negotiation Zone at the 

exhibition. 

2 

As an international platform for information 

exchange and trade in the timber industry, 

Sylva Wood Expo will continue to enhance 

market competitiveness, expand business 

areas, and deepen market penetration, as per 

previous editions. It will also continue to play 

an important role in providing more trade 

channels and opportunities for upstream 

and downstream enterprises, committing 

to sustainably sourced raw material, and 

contribute to the development of the 

Chinese timber trade and industry. P 


Demand and supply: 

Li Jiafeng on the 

diversified development 

of China’s wood industry 

Environmental protection and sustainable development have become 

important topics for the development of the wood and woodworking 

industry, under the advocacy of the dual carbon trend. Li Jiafeng, president 

of the China Timber and Wood Products Distribution Association (CTWPDA) 

shares with Panels & Furniture Asia his insights on 

how to balance development and environmental 

protection in modern society, as well as the outlook 

for global timber market trends. 

Can you briefly introduce CTWPDA? 

Li Jiafeng: The CTWPDA was approved 

by the Ministry of Civil Affairs in 1985. 

It is a national, non-profit organisation 

voluntarily formed by enterprises, 

institutions, and groups related to timber 

and wood products, including bamboo. 

As the only national association in the 

timber processing and supplying industry, 

CTWPDA has more than 3,000 members, 

including large-scale timber import and 

export trading companies, engineered 

wood, wooden flooring, wooden doors 

and windows, engineered wood, 

preserved wood, redwood, wood carving, 

whole-house customisation, and other 

production and distribution enterprises 

— all of whom enjoy high reputation both 

domestically and internationally. 

Since its establishment nearly 40 

years ago, the association has been 

committed to serving as a bridge and 

link between the industry and the 

government, safeguarding the rights 

and interests of its members and the 

industry, promoting industry selfdiscipline, 

establishing a good industry 

reputation, enhancing communication 

and cooperation, and promoting the 

healthy development of the industry. 

After years of effort, the association 

has successfully cultivated a series 

of influential industry brand events 

such as the China Global Wood Trade 

Conference, the World Timber and 

Wood Products Conference, the World 

Wood Flooring Conference, and the 

China Plywood and Customised Home 

Furnishings Conference. 

How has China’s timber and wood 

products market performed in 2023? 

Li: Let’s first discuss the overall 

environment: 2023 marked an 

important year for China as we 

embarked on the 14th Five-Year Plan. 

Facing a complex and challenging 


external environment and insufficient 

domestic demand, with macro-policy support, 

the nation’s GDP grew by 5.2% year-on-year, 

an increase of 2.2% from 2022. China’s 

economy has entered a stage of high-quality 

development, with the fundamental strength 

of long-term economic improvement, as well 

as the conditions supporting high-quality 

development unchanged. 

China has become the world’s largest timber 

processing and wood product manufacturing 

base and a major exporter of wood products. 

Additionally, it is one of the largest timber 

importers internationally. Regarding the 

Chinese timber and wood products market in 

2023, there was stable development. There 

was a diversification of investment entities, 

stable industry scale, and an improvement 

in industry concentration. There was also 

a shift from a single development model of 

expanding production scale to a composite 

development model of expanding scale while 

simultaneously improving quality. There was a 

transition from leveraging on a single market 

and resource to leveraging both domestic and 

international markets. 

The Chinese state released a few stimulus 

policies to help the wood and woodworking 

industry. What are some of these policies, 

and how have they impacted the industry? 

Li: Since the beginning of 2024, there has 

been a flurry of policies from central to local 

levels, aimed at expanding domestic demand 

and injecting vitality into China’s high-quality 

economic development. For instance, 

the National Development and Reform 

Commission proposed actively cultivating 

new consumption growth points to drive 

related area investments; the Ministry of 

Commerce designated 2024 as the ‘Year of 

Consumption Promotion’ and organised a 

variety of colourful consumer promotion 

activities; initiatives such as large-scale 

equipment renewal and consumer goods 

replacement proposed at the Fourth Meeting 

of the Central Finance and Economic 

Commission will all help drive the industry’s 

development potential. 

Furthermore, as China’s urbanisation 

continues, as the quality of people’s 

lives improves, resident consumption 

structures continuously upgrade, and as 

the Belt and Road Initiative and the further 

construction of domestic and international 

dual circulation deepen, all these policies 

will stimulate the consumption of timber 

and wood products and drive the growth 

of wood industry consumption demand. In 

turn, these create new engines for industry 

development and boost confidence in 

industry development. 

For the Chinese wood and woodworking 

industry to boost their international export 

standing, what business aspect(s) do you 

think they should improve or focus on? 

Li: Currently, China is a major trading hub 

of timber and wood products, with imports 

largely consisting of logs, sawn timber, and 

plywood, while exports mainly consisting 

of furniture, flooring, plywood, and wooden 

handicrafts. The country should strengthen 

the R&D and innovation of household 

products and materials. We should focus 

on high value-added products too, such as 

high-end furniture, smart homes, sustainable 

forest products, lightweight and highstrength 

boards. Therefore, we need to 

transform China from a world manufacturing 

centre to become a global home furnishing 

consumption centre and procurement and 

R&D centre, thus developing China to be an 

industry powerhouse in the global timber 

industry. 

In the current environmentally conscious 

environment, the sustainability of wood 

raw materials has become the focus of the 

industry. What are CTWPDA’s promotional 

efforts in this regard? 

Li: The CTWPDA has made significant 

efforts in promoting timber sustainability. 

Through close cooperation with international 

organisations and institutions such as the 

World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), World 

Resources Institute (WRI), the China-UK 

Collaboration on the International Forestry 

Investment and Trade Programme (INFiT), the 

TRAFFIC, the International Tropical Timber 

1 

LEGEND 

1 China Global Wood 

Trade Conference, 

hosted by CTWPDA 

2 CTWPDA enjoys 

close relations with 

many international 

organisations through 

the initiatives it hosts 

3 The CTWPDA 

participates in 

international 

conferences to share 

China’s experiences, 

tell China’s stories, and 

establish a responsible 

image for Chinese 

enterprises 


2 3 

Organisation (ITTO), and International 

Tropical Timber Technical Association 

(ATIBT), the association has established 

effective communication mechanisms, 

introduced international projects, and 

innovated work patterns. In terms of the 

sustainability of timber raw materials, the 

association has primarily focused on the 

following areas: 

First, we created the ‘Timber Legality List 

+ B2B’ model, where we developed an 

international supplier screening system for 

imported timber in China and integrated the 

commercial needs of Chinese enterprises 

with the legality requirements of timber 

sources. The association has successfully 

developed legality source lists for Gabon, 

Cameroon, Liberia, and the Democratic 

Republic of Congo. Through pilot testing, 

these lists have been proven to be concise, 

accurate, and operationally viable. The 

‘Timber Legality List + B2B’ model has 

gained recognition from international 

peers, industry experts, and member 

companies. 

together with the WRI and WWF, initiated 

the ‘Building a Global Green Timber Supply 

Chain’ initiative. 

Lastly, we participated in international 

conferences to share China’s experiences, 

tell China’s stories, and established 

a responsible image for Chinese 

enterprises. In 2021, the association 

was invited as the sole representative 

of the industry to attend the High-Level 

Strategic Dialogue on Global Climate 

Change Conference. In 2023, we were 

invited to attend the APEC meeting 

and participated in the thematic forum 

of the China Council for International 

Cooperation on Environment and 

Development, titled “Implementing 

the Kunming Framework to Promote 

Harmonious Coexistence between 

Humanity and Nature”, where it introduced 

the efforts made by the CTWPDA and its 

member companies in sustainability. By 

guiding enterprises to avoid high-risk 

areas, strengthening background checks 

on suppliers, and assisting member 

companies in shifting procurement 

channels, the association has effectively 

protected the world’s primary forests. 

How do you think Sylva Wood Expo 

can further improve the quality and 

international competitiveness of Chinese 

wood? What kinds of expectations do 

you have for the exhibition, and what 

message do you have for the wood and 

woodworking industry? 

Li: Sylva Wood Expo is an international 

exchange platform. For the high-quality 

development of China’s wood industry, 

more high-quality timber is needed. 

We hope Sylva Wood can continue to 

introduce such high-quality timber and 

wood products, thus diversifying import 

sources. At the same time, we also hope 

Sylva Wood can help Chinese enterprises 

expand their export channels, allowing 

the world to share in the achievements 

of China’s 40 years of development in the 

wood industry. P 

Second, the CTWPDA has established clear 

regulations on sustainable development 

and legal timber sources in various honours, 

awards and outstanding member selection. 

The China Wood Importers Committee of 

CTWPDA has issued and implemented a 

self-discipline convention for its members, 

which specifies requirements for supply 

chain management, quality control, and 

assurance. In 2023, the association, 

Li Jiafeng is a member of the Communist Party of China, a senior economist, currently 

serving as the president of the CTWPDA. Since 2011, he has successively held positions 

as the vice-president, secretary general, president of the Wood Flooring Distribution 

Professional Committee, and president of the Redwood Distribution Professional 

Committee of the China Timber and Wood Products Distribution Association. He has 

initiated major conferences such as the World Wood Flooring Conference and the China 

Wood Industry and Technology Conference, organised the compilation of multiple 

national, industry, and group standards, and published important articles in national 

professional journals. 


SHOW REVIEW 

1 

CIFF Guangzhou 2024 

breaks records, boosting 

international furniture trade 

The 53rd edition of China International 

Furniture Fair (CIFF) Guangzhou has 

concluded on 31 Mar 2024, registering the 

highest number of exhibitors and visitors 

ever, according to the organisers. This 

achievement is a testament to CIFF’s 

development strategy. 

Divided into two phases for a total of eight 

days, CIFF Guangzhou 2024 represented 

the entire furniture industry supply chain. 

Across an exhibition area of 850,000m 2 , 

4,700 companies exhibited, a 11.8% increase 

compared to the previous record peak of the 

2019 edition, along with a total of 363,449 

visitors, an increase of 22.06% compared 

to 2019 edition, of which consisted 51,205 

international visitors from 178 countries, an 

increase of 43.11%. 

The organisers witnessed an event with an 

increasingly international quality, both in 

terms of the number of visitors and exhibitors, 

and for trends and quality standards, made up 

of stands and products that are increasingly 

refined in materials and details that meet 

recent market trends. 

The trade fair is constantly evolving, playing 

a role in the development of the global 

furniture industry, promoting design and 

innovation, stimulating consumption and 

boosting international trade in furniture. 

CIFF Guangzhou 2024 showcased four 

improvements in terms of scale, product 

range, quality of offerings, and business 

opportunities. It offered an opportunity to 

learn about the latest design trends, discover 

the innovative aspects and commercial 

potential of Made-in-China furniture, and 

create concrete and profitable business 

relationships between professionals from 

all over the world and increasingly qualified 

exhibitors. 

Visitors were offered a range of exhibitions, 

conferences and forums with the 

participation of designers, journalists and 

curators, thus creating a communication 

platform in the development of new trends 

in the sector while also creating other 

important networking opportunities, 

facilitating fruitful exchanges, and 

establishing collaborations. 

During the first phase from 18-21 Mar, home 

furniture, home decorations and home 

textiles, outdoor and leisure furniture were 

featured, including a range of contemporary 

design solutions to promote the development 

of an increasingly intelligent home — from the 

welcoming and functional aspects of living 

and dining areas to the comfort of upholstered 

furniture for living and sleeping areas, with 

a focus on new systems dedicated to ‘smart 

sleep’, as well as decorative elements for the 

furnishing of outdoor relaxation areas. 


SHOW REVIEW 

The second phase, from 28-31 Mar, 

then focused on furniture for offices 

and commercial spaces, as well as on 

machineries, materials and hardware for the 

furniture industry. CIFF Guangzhou’s ‘Office 

Furniture and Commercial Space’ segment 

is dedicated to systems and seating for 

the work environment, solutions for the 

smart office, for public, scholastic and 

commercial spaces, furniture for medical 

care and for the needs of the elderly, where 

developing trends integrate aesthetics, 

function, technology and eco-sustainability, 

presenting new products and offering ideal 

solutions for work and commercial space 

projects. 

Alongside CIFF Guangzhou was 

CIFM/interzum Guangzhou, a supply 

platform dedicated to international producers 

and traders and research into the latest 

trends in materials and surfaces for interior 

design, offering technologies, machinery, 

materials, and hardware essential for an ever 

more intelligent development of the furniture 

industry. 

The next edition of CIFF Guangzhou is 

planned to be in the same period in 2025: 

First phase will be held from 18-21 Mar 2025, 

and the second phase will be held from 28-31 

Mar 2025. The upcoming CIFF Shanghai will 

be held from 11-14 Sep 2024. P 

2 

4 

3 

LEGEND 

1 More than 360,000 visitors came to CIFF Guangzhou 

2 CIFM/interzum Guangzhou, held from 28-31 Mar 

2024, featured machinery for furniture production 

3 The first phase of CIFF Guangzhou featured home 

furniture 

4 Materials for furniture production 

5 Furniture hardware at CIFM/interzum Guangzhou 

5 


EVENTS CALENDAR 

Events Calendar 

2024-2025 


MAY 

May, 09 – 12 

Qingdao International Furniture Fair 

Qingdao, China 


Xylexpo 2024 

Milan, Italy 


DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR 

Shanghai, China 

May, 29 – June, 01 

Hanoi Wood Expo 

Hanoi, Vietnam 

May, 29 – June, 01 

Hanoi Fittings & Upholstery Expo 

Hanoi, Vietnam 

JUNE 

June, 24 – 26 

Sylva Wood Expo 


AUGUST 

August, 29 – September, 01 

Korean International Furniture & 

Interior Fair 

Seoul, South Korea 

August, 27 – 30 

VIFA ASEAN 

Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam 

SEPTEMBER 

September, 02 – 04 

Saudi Wood Expo 

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia 


FMC 2024 



China International Furniture Fair 

Shanghai 



Thailand International Woodworking & 

Furniture Exhibition 

Bangkok, Thailand 


IFMAC & WOODMAC 

Jakarta, Indonesia 

OCTOBER 

October, 04 – 06 

2024 NHLA Annual Convention & 

Exhibit Showcase 

Ohio, US 

NOVEMBER 

November, 27 – 30 

Smart Furniture Solutions Vietnam 

Binh Duong, Vietnam 

2025 

MARCH 

March, 05 – 08 

VIFA Expo 

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam 

March, 06 – 09 

IndiaWood 

New Delhi, India 

March, 18 – 21 


Guangzhou (Phase 1) 

Guangzhou, China 

March, 28 – 31 


Guangzhou (Phase 2) 


March, 28 – 31 

Interzum Guangzhou 


MAY 


LIGNA 

Hannover, Germany 

OCTOBER 

October, 15 – 18 

VietnamWood 

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam 


INDEX OF ADVERTISERS 

Index of 

Advertisers 

Panels & Furniture Asia (Issue 3) 

- May/June 2024 

COMPANY 

PAGE 

t pe 

Anthon GmbH 76 

Baillie Lumber 11 

Carpenterie Metalliche Colzate Srl 41 

Extend Light Machinery Co Ltd 27 

Forestry Innovation Consulting (Vietnam) Ltd 61 

Hanoi Wood Expo 2024 7 

Hoon Hsiang Ind Co Ltd 47 

Kuang Yung Machinery Co.,Ltd 39 

Ledinek Engineering d.o.o. 

OBC 

Lesnaya Industriya Journal 49 

Nanxing Machinery Co., Ltd 2, 3 

Anthon GmbH Maschinen- & Anlagenbau 

Schäferweg 5 24941 Flensburg Gemany 

Tel: +49(461) 5803-0 Fax +49(461) 5803-40 

Pika ReTech 4, 5 

Shanghai Wood-Based Panels Machinery Co., Ltd 9 

Shanxi Vario Hydraulic Machinery Co., Ltd 43 

Siempelkamp Maschinen- und Anlagenbau GmbH 

FC 

Smart Connected Solutions SEA 15 

Smart Furniture Solutions Vietnam 2024 53 

Softwood Export Council 

IFC 

Sylva Wood Expo 2024 1 

Technik Associates, Inc 

IBC 

Thailand International Woodworking & Furniture Exhibition 2024 75 

Yalian Machinery Co., Ltd 13 

to your 

specifications ! 

Scan to download eBook 

PFA May/June 2024 

76 PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA | MAY / JUNE 2024 

Anthon Werbung Englisch 91x234 

Montag, 3. April 2023 10:51:49

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Panels & Furniture Asia May/June 2024

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