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AHEC REPORT ASIA
AHEC REPORT ASIA UNDERPINS STRONG GROWTH IN EXPORTS FOR AMERICAN HARDWOODS IN FIRST HALF OF 2014 Data released by the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture for the first half of 2014 indicates a continuing expansion in global exports with an increase of 23% in value (to US.86 billion) and 33% in volume (466,433 M3) . In East Asia, of which China is the key, U.S. Hardwood lumber exports were up 51% in value and 28% in volume, indicating firming prices for many species. To Southeast Asia, U.S. Hardwood exports grew by 13% in value and 6% in volume, led by Vietnam - now the third largest market in the world for American Hardwoods. USDA U.S. Hardwood Exports – East Asia & Southeast Asia U.S. exports of sawn Hardwood lumber to China alone were up 54% in value to US6 million and up 30% in volume, most of which is now consumed domestically, making it by far the largest market for American Hardwood exports. If such imports continue for the rest of this year, the total will exceed US.1 billion for 2014, compared to US3,057,959 in 2013. Total volume for the first half of this year was 904,095 M3. Major sectors are furniture and flooring, especially Oak, the popularity of which continues to rise exponentially for flooring in China. Next this year is Vietnam, which has risen spectacularly in just a few years, on account of the development of its furniture industry and lack of domestic raw material. In the first half of 2014 lumber shipments amounted to 199,131 M3 compared to 179,183 M3 in 2013 – an increase of 11% - with 19% increase in value. Please turn to page 75 USDA U.S. Hardwood Exports - Hardwood Lumber Exports by Country 24 OCTOBER 2014 ■ NATIONAL HARDWOOD MAGAZINE BY MICHAEL S. SNOW, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, AMERICAN HARDWOO EXPORT COUNCIL, RESTON, VA 703-435-2900 www.ahec.org
