Time to log on to China's growing demand for wood

摘要

Google 'China demand' on the Internet and the search will show you articles on supply issues for just about every major commodity traded internationally, including wood. CHINA'S IMPORTS OF WOOD products have grown to such an extent that it is now themain driver of prices in Asia. The country's economic momentum seems unstoppable with growth for 2005 revised upwards to staggering double-digit levels. This means the economy doubles in size every seven years, accompanied by voracious demand for concrete, steel and, of course, wood. Growth in China's export industries has been higher still. For example, plywood and veneer exports in 2006 were running nearly 40% above the previous year, wooden doors by 40% and it was a similar story for furniture. Russian red pine and radiata pine feature prominently as favoured raw materials. This growth is driven by an expansion in industrial capacity that will ensure continuing strong demand well into the future.