International Tropical Timber Organization
INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
CENTER,5TH FLOOR,
PACIFICO-YOKOHAMA1-1-1,
MINATO-MIRAI, NISHI-KU,
YOKOHAMA, 220-0012, JAPAN
[email protected]
Tropical Timber Market Report
1 - 15th November 2004
Contents
International Log Prices
Domestic Log Prices
International Sawnwood Prices
Domestic Sawnwood Prices
International Ply and Veneer Prices
Domestic Ply and Veneer Prices
Other Panel Product Prices
Prices of Added Value Products
Furniture and Parts
Report From Japan
Report From China
Update from France
Report from Holland
Internet Trade News
Abbreviations and Currencies
Appendix:
Price Trends
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p23
HEADLINES
Ghana's timber exports decline.
Page 3
Imported prices up in China.
but, Peru's timber export increase
by 25%.
Page 4
Guangdong panel industry at critical
stage.
Page 15
Builders mobilised after severe
earthquake hits Japan.
page 10
Timber transport costs of concern
in UK.
page 19
Meranti log prices down in Japan.
Page 10
Exchange rates pulling prices down in
Holland.
Page 20
US modifies tariffs on Chinese
furniture.
Page 12
AFPA report on illegal logging.
Page 22
Page 12
1
Myanmar
International Log Prices
Sarawak Log Prices
FOB
Meranti SQ up
small
super small
Keruing SQ up
small
super small
Kapur SQ up
Selangan Batu SQ up
per Cu.m
US$190-195
US$160-165
US$130-135
US$170-175
US$140-145
US$110-115
US$145-150
US$145-150
Francophone West African Log Prices
FOB
Afromosia/Assamela
Acajou/N'Gollon
Ayous/Obeche
Azobe
Bibolo/Dibtou
Movingui
Fromager/Ceiba
Iroko
Limba/Frake
Moabi
Padouk
Sapelli
Sipo/Utile
Tali
Doussie
LM
B BC/C
Euro per Cu.m
381
350
206
191
206
190
160
137
122
114
144
107
190
175
145
114
114
351
320
241
137
114
99
244
221
206
206
206
229
213
190
274
259
144
129
91
457
335
274
Gabon Okoume
Grade
CI
CE
CS
QS
Okoume for China
40% CI, 40% CE, 20% CS
(Free alongside)
per Cu.m
US$150
US$122
US$95
US$176
Teak logs
Veneer Quality FOB per Hoppus Ton
Sept
Oct
2nd Quality
Euro 4039
Euro 4069
3 tons
4 tons
3rd Quality
Euro 3785
Euro 3887
4 tons
10 tons
4th Quality
Euro 3308
Euro 3286
51 tons
83 tons
Sawing Quality per Hoppus Ton
Grade 1 Av.
Euro 1952
Euro 1915
252 tons
295 tons
Grade 2 Av.
Euro 1492
Euro 1476
195 tons
366 tons
Grade 3 Av.
Euro 770
Euro 775
395 tons
475 tons
Grade 4 Av.
Euro 1040
Euro 935
513 tons
477 tons
Assorted Av. Euro 708
Euro 691
2050 tons
tons 2253
Domestic
Euro 546
Euro 533
492 tons
tons 877
Papua New Guinea
Saw/veneer grade
Monthly Average FOB per Cu.m
Malas
US$61
Calophyllum
US$81
Taun
US$72
Terminalia
US$61
Pencil Cedar
US$78
PNG Mersawa
US$82
Red Canarium
US$55
Erima
US$60
Dillenia
US$58
Burckella
US$62
Kwila
US$90
US$200
2
mouldings where earnings are down by
about 66%.
Domestic Log Prices
Brazil
Logs at mill yard
Mahogany Ist Grade
Ipe
Jatoba
Guaruba
Mescla(white virola)
per Cu.m
No Sales
US$74
US$46
US$32
US$39
Indonesia
Domestic log prices
Plywood logs
Face Logs
Core logs
Sawlogs(Meranti)
Falkata logs
Rubberwood
Pine
Mahoni
The poor showing is, say analysts, due
mainly to difficulties the mills have to
secure logs as well as to the high cost of
production at the mills. The difficulties in
securing logs for production are apparently
due partly to delays in the pre-qualification
and allocation of Timber Utilization
Contracts (TUCs) and the competitive
bidding for plantation timbers in forest
reserves. The government says that it
expects that both processes will be
completed before the end of this year
per Cu.m
US$90-100
US$60-75
US$105-115
US$90-95
US$85-95
US$95-100
US$500-515
Wawa
Odum
Ceiba
Chenchen
Mahogany
(Veneer Qual.)
Sapele
Makore
(Veneer Qual.)
per Cu.m
US$32-38 
US$77-175
US$27-53 
US$29-57 
US$40-91 
US$47-140 
US$47-140 
Peninsula Malaysia
Bamboo Industry Gets Boost
Logs
Domestic (SQ ex-log yard) per Cu.m
DR Meranti
US$210-220
Balau
US$175-180
Merbau
US$215-225
Rubberwood
US$85-90
Keruing
US$175-185
Ghana
Decline in exports
Ghana's timber exports have declined by
about 7% in volume terms compared to the
same period in 2003 and revenues have
fallen by 12% to Euro 123.8 million for the
period. The products worst hit are furniture
parts (down by 45% in revenue) and
A locally manufactured bamboo-processing
machine has been introduced to the
Ghanaian market to help boost the emerging
bamboo industry. This was disclosed by
Mrs. Gifty Ohui Allotey, the Programme
Administrator of the Bamboo and Rattan
(BARADEP) of the Ministry of Lands and
Forestry.
The manufacturers of the machine,
Masterpiece Bamboo Limited in Takoradi,
hinted that the machine was capable of
processing bamboo into various products for
both the internal and external markets. The
cost of the machine is estimated at Ghana
Cedis 120 million (or US$13,636.00)
compared to US$300,000 for the imported
machine.
3
Malaysia
International Sawnwood
Francophone West Africa
FOB
Okoume
FAS GMS
Standard and Better
FAS Fixed Sizes
Sipo
FAS Standard Sizes
FAS Fixed Sizes
Sapelli
FAS
Dibtou
FAS Standard Sizes
FAS Fixed Sizes
Iroko
FAS GMS
Scantlings
Strips
Khaya
FAS GMS
per Cu.m
Euro
266
251
297
Sawn Timber
Export(FOB)
per Cu.m
White Meranti A & Up US$325-330
Seraya
Scantlings (75x125 KD) US$645-655
Sepetir Boards
US$185-195
K.Sesendok 25,50mm
US$350-360
640
670
Ghana
487
381
412
548
487
274
398
FOB
Afromosia
Asanfina
Ceiba
Dahoma
Edinam
Khaya
Makore
Odum
Sapele
Wawa
Euro per Cu.m
855
472 
180
272 
350 
520 
449
540 
460 
240 
Brazil
Peru
FOB Belem/Paranagua Ports
Export Sawnwood
Mahogany KD FAS FOB
UK market
Jatoba Green (dressed)
Cambara KD
Asian Market(green)
Guaruba
Angelim pedra
Mandioqueira
Pine (AD)
per Cu.m
no trade
US$510
US$410
US$240
US$270
US$190
US$130
Peruvian timber and wood products export
increased by around 25% in the period
January-September 2004 to US$96.79
million compared to US$73.13 million for
the same period in 2003. This was despite a
fall in Mahogany exports which were down
by about 22% to 12,797 cubic metres
compared with the same period in 2003.
The USA still is the main export market
accounting for some 47% of exports and
sales are up by about 4.5%.
Exports to Mexico registered a positive
growth of 57% compared to the period JanSep 2003 and now, Mexico accounts for
almost 30% of Peru's exports of wood
products. Virola sawnwood and plywood of
Lupuna, Virola and Spanish cedar are the
items popular in the Mexican market.
4
As Loreto is the main Peruvian supplying
region, especially for Virola sawnwood,
almost all of the exports from Loreto are to
Mexico.
Domestic Sawnwood Prices
China and Hong Kong are the third ranked
market destination for hardwood exports
especially of mouldings, decking and
flooring. Several Chinese hardwood
importers have set up production plants in
Peru.
Sawnwood (Green ex-mill)
Northern Mills
per Cu.m
Mahogany
No sales
Ipe
US$313
Jatoba
US$225
Southern Mills
Eucalyptus AD
US$109
Pine (KD) First Grade US$140
In central America the Dominican Republic,
Puerto Rico and El Salvador take up most of
the balance of exports of plywood and
sawnwood and these counties have
displaced European countries such as
Germany and the United Kingdom as
importers from Peru.
Traders say that the growth export revenues
is because FOB prices have risen for sawn
Mahogany and Cabre-uva, plywood,
mouldings, decking and flooring however,
volumes have not increased much.
For US Market
per Cu.m
Mahogany 1C&B, KD 16%
Central American market US$1220-1250
Mahogany 1C&B, KD 16%
US market
US$1300-1380
Spanish Cedar No.1 C&B,
KD 16%,
Central Am. Market
US$615-630
Walnut 1" Thickness,
6' - 11' length
US$660-700
Spanish cedar # 1 C&B,
KD 16%
Mexican market
US$630-650
Pumaquiro 25-50mm AD
Mexican market
US$460-490
Virola 1" to 2"
Length 6' - 8' KD
US$270-290
Lagarto 2" Thickness,
6' - 8' length
US$345-365
Ishpingo 2"
Thickness 6' - 8' length US$365-385
Report from Brazil
Report from Indonesia
Sawn timber, ex-mill
Domestic construction material
Kampar
AD 3x12-15x400cm
KD
AD 3x20x400cm
KD
Keruing
AD 3x12-15cmx400
AD 2x20cmx400
AD 3x30cmx400
per Cu.m
US$200-210
US$280-290
US$305-315
US$320-330
US$225-230
US$220-225
US$230-235
The World Bank has proposed new efforts
to stimulate small and medium-scale
businesses by revising and simplifying
regulations and providing better access to
capital markets. The Jakarta post is reporting
that Bank managing director Peter Woicke
said "The conditions for creating small
businesses are not particularly good in
Indonesia. The large number of regulations
means it is very difficult to set up
companies".
Dr. Woicke, who is also a marketing
manager in the bank's investment arm, the
International Finance Corporation (IFC),
said if the new government managed to
address
these
problems,
economic
efficiencies could be enhanced encouraging
the expansion of the SMEs.
5
Malaysia
International Plywood and Veneer Prices
Indonesia
Sawnwood
per Cu.m
Balau(25&50mm,100mm+)
US$235-245
Kempas50mm by
(75,100&125mm)
US$185-195
Rubberwood
25x75x660mm up
US$235-240
50-75mm Sq.
US$245-250
>75mm sq.
US$255-265
Plywood (export, FOB)
MR,
Grade BB/CC
2.7mm
3mm
6mm
per Cu.m
US$350-355
US$305-315
US$280-285
Brazilian Plywood and Veneer
Ghana
Sawnwood
Wawa 25x300x4.2m
Emeri 25x300x4.2m
Ceiba 25x300x4.2m
Dahoma 50x150x4.2m
Redwood 50x75x4.2m
Ofram 25x225x4.2m
per Cu.m
US$73
US$70
US$53
US$138
US$122
US$136
Peru
Analysts report that domestic prices
timber are increasing. Loggers explain
some of the reasons are the lack of
materials, restrictions on harvests
Mahogany and the higher demand
hardwoods for export.
per Cu.m
Mahogany
Virola
Spanish Cedar
Catahua
Tornillo
US$1512-1522
US$186-200
US$630-640
US$177-183
US$357-365
for
that
raw
of
for
FOB Belem/Paranagua Ports
Veneer FOB
White Virola Face
2.5mm
Pine Veneer (C/D)
Plywood FOB
White Virola (US Market)
5.2mm OV2 (MR)
15mm BB/CC (MR)
For Caribbean countries
White Virola
4mm
12mm
Pine EU market
9mm C/CC (WBP)
15mm C/CC (WBP)
18mm C/CC (WBP)
per Cu.m
US$210
US$145
per Cu.m
US$320
US$280
US$410
US$320
US$215
US$205
US$200
Malaysian Plywood
MR Grade BB/CC FOB per Cu.m
2.7mm
US$355-360
3mm
US$320-325
9mm plus
US$285-295
Domestic plywood
3mm
12-18mm
US$370-380
US$285-290
6
Ghana
Rotary Veneer Core Face
1mm+ below 2mm
Bombax, Chenchen,
Kyere, Ofram,
Ogea,Otie,Essa
Ceiba
Mahogany
Euro per Cu.m
321  356 
263  302 
420  462 
Light Woods B/BB
Euro per Cu.m
WBP
MR
4mm
402 
266 
6mm
273 
218 
9mm
238 
202 
12mm
255 
184 
15mm
229 
187 
18mm
204 
170 
Grade AB/BB would attract a premium of
5%. BB/BB would be 5% less, C/CC would
be 10% less and CC/CC would be 15% less.
The above prices are for full sized panels,
falling sizes minus 15%.
Peru
Core Grade 2mm+
Ceiba
Chenchen, Ogea,
Ofram,
Plywood export values to September more
than doubled and three species scoured
success, Lupuna, Virola and Cedar. The
main markets were Mexico, San Salvador,
Guatemala, Costa Rica and Venezuela.
per Cu.m
US$225
US$290
Sliced Veneer
Euro per Sq.m
Afromosia
Asanfina
Avodire
Chenchen
Mahogany
Makore
Odum
Face
1.19
1.25
0.92
0.72
1.03
1.01
1.54
Backing
0.69
0.73
0.51
0.44
0.65
0.60
0.92
Plywood Prices FOB
Redwoods B/BB
4mm
6mm
9mm
12mm
15mm
18mm
Euro per Cu.m
WBP
MR
447 
372 
278 
252 
256 
239 
248 
229 
252 
232 
246 
228 
The Peruvian plywood industry is working
at full capacity with three shifts so as to
meet orders. The firm demand has translated
into better FOB price for plywood and
veneers.
FOB For Mexican Market
per Cu.m
Copaiba plywood,
two faces sanded,
B/C, 15x4x8mm
US$345-350 
Virola plywood,
two faces sanded,
b/c, 5.2mmx4x8
US$390-400 
Lupuna plywood, treated,
two faces sanded, for Mexico
5.2mmx4x8
US$335-340 
Lupuna plywood, b/c
15mmx4x8
US$315-320 
b/c, 9mmx4x8
US$325-330 
b/c, 12mmx4x8
US$320-330 
c/c 4mmx8x4
US$340-360 
7
Veneer Prices
Other Panel Product Prices
Brazil
FOB
Lupuna 2.5mm
Lupuna 4.2mm
Lupuna 1.5mm
per Cu.m
US$210-215 
US$220-230 
US$235-240 
FOB Belem/Paranagua Ports
Export Prices
Blockboard 18mm
B/C
Pine
per Cu.m
US$345
Domestic Plywood Prices
Domestic Prices
Ex-mill Southern Region
Blockboard
15mm White Virola Faced
15mm Mahogany Faced
Brazil
Rotary Cut Veneer
(ex-mill Northern Mill)
White Virola Face
White Virola Core
per Cu.m
US$142
US$115
Plywood
(ex-mill Southern Mill)
Grade MR
4mm White Virola
15mm White Virola
4mm Mahogany 1 face
US$305
No Trade
US$182
Indonesia
per Cu.m
US$459
US$334
No trade
Other Panels
per Cu.m
Export Particleboard FOB
9-18mm
US$140-150
Domestic Particleboard
9mm
US$150-160
12-15mm
US$140-145
18mm
US$135-140
Indonesia
Domestic MR plywood
(Jarkarta)
9mm
12mm
15mm
Particleboard (ex-factory)
15mm
per Cu.m
per Cu.m
US$285-290
US$265-275
US$260-275
MDF Export (FOB)
12-18mm
US$195-200
MDF Domestic
12-18mm
US$200-215
Peru
Malaysia
per Cu.m
Lupuna Plywood
122 x 244 x 4mm BB/CC
122 x 244 x 6mm BB/CC
122 x 244 x 8mm BB/CC
122 x 244 x 10mm BB/CC
122 x 244 x 12mm BB/CC
122 x 244 x 15mm BB/CC
122 x 244 x 18mm BB/CC
US$452 
US$444 
US$430 
US$419 
US$417 
US$418 
US$414 
Particleboard (FOB)
Export
12mm & above
per Cu.m
US$155-165
Domestic
12mm & above
US$155-175
8
MDF (FOB)
Export 18-22mm
per Cu.m
US$210-255
Domestic Price
12-18mm
US$210-220
Peru
Domestic Particleboard Prices
Domestic
1.83m x 2.44m x 4mm
1.83m x 2.44m x 6mm
1.83m x 2.44m x 8mm
1.83m x 2.44m x 9mm
1.83m x 2.44m x 12mm
per Cu.m
US$293
US$247
US$219
US$227
US$210
Prices of Added Value Products
Indonesia
Mouldings
per Cu.m
Laminated Boards
Falkata wood
US$295-305
Red Meranti Mouldings
11x68/92mm x 7ft up
Grade A
US$610-630
Grade B
US$515-525
Malaysia
Mouldings (FOB)
per Cu.m
Selagan Batu Decking US$565-570
Red Meranti Mouldings
11x68/92mm x 7ft up
Grade A
US$630-635
Grade B
US$525-530
Ghana
Parquet Flooring 1st Grade
10x60x300mm
FOB Euro per Sq.m
Apa
13.64 
Odum
8.57 
Hyedua
13.67
Afromosia
13.72
10x65/75mm
Apa
14.47
Odum
10.18
Hyedua
18.22
Afromosia
13.93
14x70mm
Apa
14.79
Odum
10.48
Hyedua
17.82
Afromosia
17.82
10x50mm/77mm
Apa
10.99
Odum
8.50
Hyedua
13.65
Afromosia
12.59
Grade 2 less 5%, Grade 3 less 10%
Peru
Strips for parquet
FOB per Cu.m
Cabre uva KD S4S
Asian Market
US$1400-1420
Cumaru KD, S4S,
(Swedish Market)
US$630-645
Cumaru KD, S4S,
(Asian Market)
US$555-585
Cumaru decking, AD,
S4S E4S USA market US$620-642
Pumaquiro KD # 1, C&B
(Mexican market)
US$465-480
Quinilla KD 12%, S4S
20mmx100mmx620mm
(Asian market)
US$560-575
9
Furniture and Parts
Malaysia
Semi-finished
FOB each
Dining table
Solid rubberwood laminated top 2.5' x 4'
with extension leaf
US$21.5-22.5ea
As above, Oak Veneer US$31-33ea
Windsor Chair
US$8-9.0ea
Colonial Chair
US$11.5-12.5ea
Queen Anne Chair (with soft seat)
without arm
US$13-14ea
with arm
US$17.0-18ea
Rubberwood Chair Seat
27x430x500mm
US$2.35-2.50ea
Rubberwood Tabletop per Cu.m FOB
22x760x1220mm
sanded and edge profiled
Top Grade
US$530-535
Standard
US$495-500
Brazil
FOB Belem/Paranagua Ports
Edge Glued Pine Panel per Cu.m
for Korea 1st Grade
US$520
US Market
US$480
Decking Boards
Cambara
US$550
Ipe
US$850
Report From Japan
Severe earthquake hits Niigata
On October 23rd, an earthquake, magnitude
6.3, hit central Niigata about 200 kilometres
from Tokyo, some 40 people were killed and
more than 3,000 were injured. After-shocks
caused further damage because of landslides
and flooding.
Many houses were totally or partially
destroyed and the road network was also
heavily damaged around Ojiya city, the epicenter of the quake. Aftershocks with a
magnitude of five plus continue almost daily
and restoration work is tough going.
According to initial reports from the Niigata
prefectural government, 156 houses were
totally destroyed, 250 were partially
destroyed and 2,200 units were damaged.
The Japan Lumber Report is saying that
most of the damaged houses are old houses
and the evidence is that recently built
wooden houses withstood the quake well
except for broken windows and wall cracks.
Some houses of more than fifty years old
stood up well and much of the damage to
houses was from landslides.
The Japanese Housing Bureau of the
Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and
Transport has requested builders and
suppliers of building materials to up
production and delivery to allow rapid
restoration work particularly as winter is
approaching and this area suffers heavy
snow fall every year.
September housing starts
September housing starts were 108,281,
10.1% higher than the same month a year
ago and this represents four consecutive
months of more than 100,000 units starts.
The Research Institute for Construction and
Economy has revised forecasts for new
housing starts in 2004 to 1,165,000 units,
slightly down from 2003. The forecast for
2005 is 1,152,000 units, 1.1% less than
2004. The institute says there are no clear
signs of an increase in housing starts, despite
the recovery of personal spending in Japan.
Meranti log prices down locally
The market for meranti logs is reported as
tightening because the monsoon rain in SE
Asia has slowed harvesting while, at the
same time demand from Japanese plywood
10
mills remains steady. As the Yen exchange
rate has moved to 106 yen to the dollar and
this has caused prices to fall slightly in the
domestic market. Importers were pressured
to agree to some price cuts by determined
buyers for the local plywood mills.
The cost of meranti regular logs was
US$150-152 per cubic metre FOB, which is
about Yen 6,100-6,200 per koku CIF but the
importers sold at Yen 6,050-6,100 so they
are Yen 50-100 yen per koku in deficit.
Kapur prices also fell from previous high
Yen 6,400-6,500 but the loss to importers
was not as much for meranti regular. Small
meranti prices are about Yen 5,400-5,450
some Yen 50-100 lower than late September
prices.
FOB prices have been firming since the
middle of October. Sarawak log inventories
are reported as particularly tight. Meranti
regular prices bottomed at FOB US$150151. Yellow meranti is reported in short
supply. Small meranti FOB prices are
US$125-126. Kapur floater prices are at
US$161-163.
Compared to late September prices, FOB
prices are about US$1 or US$2 lower but a
rebound is likely especially for small and
super small logs, which are said to be in
tight supply.
Keruing log prices are at a plateau at
US$195 but on account of tight supply
situation some importers think that US$200
per cubic metre is coming.
between the producers and customers in
Japan.
Strong Euro weakens export power
On November 8, the Euro recorded its
highest US dollar exchange rate at 1.298,
exceeding the past record of 1.293 seen in
February. The Euro had been weak against
the dollar for almost three years since it was
launched in 1999 but a rapid appreciation of
Euro since last year has put timber exporters
in Europe in a tough spot. The lowest rate of
Euro was 0.853 to the dollar in October
2000 so the Euro appreciation by 52% to the
dollar is taking its toll. The Euro is also up
against the Yen at 136 which is the highest
ever and this is casting a shadow over the
timber export opportunities from Europe.
Logs For Plywood Manufacturing
CIF Price
Yen per Koku
Meranti (Hill, Sarawak)
Medium Mixed
5,950 
Meranti (Hill, Sarawak)
STD Mixed
6,000
Meranti (Hill, Sarawak)
Small Lot
(SM60%, SSM40%)
4,800
Taun, Calophyllum (PNG)
and others
4,800
Mixed Light Hardwood
(PNG G3-G5 grade)
4,250
Okoume (Gabon)
7,000
Keruing (Sarawak)
Medium MQ & up
7,200
Kapur (Sarawak) Medium
MQ & up
6,900
Samling group opens office in Japan
Samling, the Malaysian group has opened an
office in Japan to be headed by Mr. T. Itoh,
former managing director of Nissho-Iwai.
Samling Japan will be the responsible for
marketing the various wood products of the
Samling group which include plywood,
MDF, doors and interior furnishing
materials. This local office, says the
company, will make possible closer ties
Logs For Sawmilling
FOB Price
Melapi (Sarawak)
Select
Agathis (Sarawak)
Select
Yen per Koku
8,800
8,600
11
Lumber FOB Price
White Seraya (Sabah)
24x150mm, 4m
1st grade
Mixed Seraya
24x48mm,
1.8-4m, S2S
Yen per Cu.m
The consumer price index (CPI) was up
36.7% compared with the same period last
year.
105,000
42,000
For more information on the Japanese
market please
see www.n-mokuzai.com
Report from China
US modifies Tariffs on Imported Furniture
The US government has amended the
proposed tariffs on bedroom furniture
imported from China and this has been
greeted as good news for consumers but not
so good news for US furniture
manufacturers.
Six of the nine punitive tariff levels set in
June have been cut means that imports will
still be competitively priced in the stores and
this will put more pressure on US
Manufacturers to become more competitive
or move more production outside the US.
Growth in the first three quarters
Zhen Jingping, news spokesman for China's
National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has
reported that in the first three quarters of
2004 GDP was Yuan 9314.4 billion, a year
on year increase of 9.5%. The value-added
by industrial enterprises (all state-owned
enterprises and those non state-owned
enterprises with annual sales over Yuan 5
million) rose by 17% to Yuan 3877.5
billion.
Investment in fixed assets came to 4510.2
billion, a year on year increase of 27.7%.
Annual total retail sales of consumer goods
amounted to Yuan 3843.9 billion, a year on
year increase of 13% and a real increase of
9.7% after allowing for inflation.
The total value of foreign trade rose 36.7%
to US$828.5 billion with a surplus of
US$3.9 billion. The per capita disposable
incomes of urban residents was Yuan 7072,
an actual increase of 11.4% after adjustment.
Zheng Jingping is reported as saying that the
main targets for economic and social
development can be realised as long as the
macro-economic control measures are
implemented fully.
Zheng pointed out, however, that there had
been some difficulties with implementing
measures aimed at cooling the economy. He
said that although some issues had been
tackled successfully, there is still much to
do. The problem of excessive expansion of
investment still existed and the sound
foundation for food production and
increased farmer incomes was an issue to be
overcome.
In addition the supply and demand of coal,
power, oil and transportation services are
still out of balance the spokesperson said so
macro-economic control measures need to
be strengthened.
Trade in the first three quarters
According to statistics from China Customs,
during January to September log imports
were 19,629,800 cubic metres valued at
US$2.087 billion, a year on year increase of
1% in volume and 12.7% in value
Of the total, coniferous log imports came to
11,935,600 cubic metres valued at
US$872.16 million, a year on year increase
of 3.9% in volume and 21.8% in value.
Hardwood log imports amounted to
7,694,200 cubic metres valued at US$1.22
billion, a year on year fall of 3.2% in
volume and 7% in value. Among hardwood
log imports, tropical log imports were
12
5,470,000 cubic metres
US$899.435 million.
valued
at
Overall log imports in the first three quarters
of 2004 were much the same as for the same
period in 2003 but price increases were
significant. The average price for imported
logs increased to US$106.32 per cubic metre
from US$95.25 per cubic metre in 2003, up
11.6%.
Softwood log imports increased markedly
and the average price for imported softwood
logs jumped around 17% to US$73.07 per
cubic metre from US$62.35 per cubic metre
in 2003. At the same time hardwood log
imports fell but the average price (temperate
and tropical logs) for imported hardwood
logs continued to climb to US$157.89 per
cubic metre up about 10% from US$142.84
per cubic metre in 2003.
Sawnwood
Sawnwood imports in the first three-quarters
were to 4,628,000 cubic metres valued at
US$1.05 billion, a year on year increase of
12% in volume and 18.4% in value. Of the
total, softwood sawnwood imports were
1,289,400 cubic metres valued at US$210.69
million, a year on year increase of 22.3% in
volume and 33.6% in value.
Veneer
Veneer imports modest 85,100 cubic metres
and showed a sharp fall, dropping 36.2% but
the import value of veneers rose 11.7% to
US$82,122,000. Of the total veneer imports,
softwood veneer imports were just 2,500
cubic metres valued at US$15.883,400
million, a year on year decline of a massive
90% in volume and 30.9% in value.
Tropical veneer imports were only 23,100
cubic metres valued at US$14.662,100, a
year on year fall of 21% in volume and 4.5%
in value. Other veneer imports came to
59,500 cubic metres valued at US$61.57,400
million, a year on year decline of about 24%
in volume but an increase of 24% in value
terms.
Clearly veneer imports for 2004 have
changed in composition as more high value
veneers were imported.
The average price for imported 'other'
veneers rose to US$1,035 per cubic metre up
from US$631.96 per cubic metre in the same
period last yea. At the same time the average
price for imported tropical veneer jumped
about 20% to US$634.72 per cubic metre up
from US$525.88 per cubic metre last year.
Plywood
Hardwood sawnwood imports amounted to
3,038,600 cubic metres valued at US$834.3
million, a year on year decline of 1.2% in
volume but an increase of 15% in value
terms.
Both softwood and hardwood sawnwood
prices increased. The average price for sawn
softwood climbed 9.2% to US$163.4 per
cubic metres up from US$149.57 in the
same period last year.
The average price for imported hardwood
sawnwood rose 16.6% to US$274.56 per
cubic metre up from US$235.57 per cubic
metre in the same period last year.
Plywood imports in the first three-quarters
continued to decline and were just 573, 000
cubic metres down 7% valued at US$278.5
million. But the average price for imported
plywood increased to US$486.04 per cubic
metre up from US$456.55 per cubic metre in
2003.
It will be seen that during January to
September 2004 the average price for import
wood products increased, some rather
sharply. The increase in average price was
greatest for hardwood veneers at about plus
64%.
The next steepest jump was for tropical
veneers which rose around 21%.
13
Average price increases were also recorded
for coniferous logs (17%), hardwood
sawnwood (16.6%) and hardwood (plus
10.5%). The price increases for sawn
softwood (plus 9.2%) and plywood (plus
6.6%) were below the double-digit gains
seen for hardwoods.
forests. The report also says that China's
rattan industry needs some 40-50,000 tons
of annually so is heavily dependant on
imports. Therefore a strong case can be
made for investment in rattan cultivation to
improve the self-sufficiency in rattan
production.
Promising bamboo and rattan industry
According to preliminary investigation,
there are some 2 million hectare of
plantation and secondary forest suitable for
interplanting rattan in Hainan, Guangdong,
Guangxi and Yunnan.
China has 3 genera and 40 species of rattan
plants mainly growing in tropical and subtropical natural secondary forests in the
south and southwest of the country.
According to a recent study there are some
300 000 hectares of rattan resources the
natural forest and the annual wild rattan
production is around 4,000-5,000 tons and
has peaked at 6500 tons per year.
The total trade value of China's rattan
furniture production is currently at around
US$200 million and has been growing by
around 10% annually in recent years.
The rattan industry plays an important role
in the development of regional economies
and currently, the largest production and
distribution centres for bamboo and rattan
handicraft are in Guangdong Nanhai City
and Fujian Anxi county.
Issues and prospects
Mr. Chenxuhe, an expert with INBAR,
(International Network for Bamboo and
Rattan) has said that China's bamboo and
rattan industry has great potential and could
develop better technologies to capture
greater economic benefits. Such industries,
he says have a low resources consumption,
negligible environment pollution and can
help with human resource development.
Expansion of the bamboo and rattan
resource base is said to require attention.
Although China has abundant bamboo
resources, there are only 20 widely used
economic species. The INBAR report
suggests that around half of the bamboo
forests are under-stocked and low-yielding
In terms of industrial development there is
also much to do. Apparently many bamboo
and rattan enterprises are low tech and
poorly managed and the sector has not
developed a broad base from which to
develop its international standard.
The INBAR report says there is a need to
develop cooperation in the industry to
encourage the integration of raw material
production and utilisation and this process
should be driven by intensive utilisation
using the latest available technologies.
To support the sector it would be necessary
to strengthen the scientific and technological
support to deliver innovation. R and D
activities, say INBAR, should focus on key
technologies, intensive management the
productivity of bamboo and rattan in natural
forests and plantations and on the
development of new applications for
bamboo and rattan.
INBAR is well placed to assist with the
further development of the bamboo and
rattan industries in China and its strength is
in international cooperation. INBAR is an
independent, non-profit inter-governmental
international organization co-launched by
China and Canada and the headquarters is in
Beijing.
INBAR has 28 member countries at present
as well as some 350 organizations and
individual members. Currently, the U.S, the
European Union and Brazil are considering
14
the organisation. International Center for
Bamboo and Rattan (ICBR) in Beijing is
China's main R&D facility for bamboo and
rattan and INBAR has recognised the
opportunities to bring together capacity for
scientific research on Bamboo and rattan,
international cooperation and expertise in
support of development of the sector.
Guangdong panel projects
Guangdong Province is developing very
rapidly and demand for wood products is
tremendous. According to provincial
statistics, in 2003 the forest cover in the
Province was 57.3%.
The land area available for forestry was said
to be 10.831 million hectares. The standing
volume is reported as around stock was
350.92 million cubic metres. The annual
total volume growth has been estimated at
17.42 million cubic metres.
The consumption of the provincial forest
resources was 7.29 million cubic metres last
year, taking up around two-thirds of the
annual logging quota of 11 million cubic
metres.
There are 8 high/medium density fiberboard
plants under construction, which will have
an annual timber consumption of about 1.75
million cubic metres.
It is expected that many more large scale
wood-based panel enterprises will be
established in the province in the next few
years. Within a few years the annual timber
consumption could jump to above 3.6
million cubic metres.
Wood products (including logs, sawnwood,
veneer,
plywood,
medium
density
fiberboard, paper pulp and paper) imports
through Guangdong Port in 2003 were 22.82
million cubic metres (log equivalent), or
about 20% of the national total.
The severe shortages of forest timber
resources will hamper the development of
wood-based
Guangdong.
panel
enterprises
in
Currently Guangdong wood-based panel
industry is at a critical period of
development. On the one hand, medium and
small timber processing enterprises are
growing in number. Many medium and
large-scale paper pulp factories and woodbased panel mills are under construction.
It is undeniable that there are insufficient
resources within the province. Analysts
point out that at the moment there are many
inefficient and poorly managed enterprises
in the province and as the raw material
shortages begin to bite only the best
enterprises will survive and others will
collapse.
Against this background the provincial
authorities have a difficult task in planning
and distributing development projects. It is
necessary to carefully control the number
and scale of wood-based panel, wood chip
and paper mills to avoid aggravating the raw
material supply problems. It is reported that
a decision has been made that projects with
low raw material consumption, power
efficiencies and effective utilization of
resources will be encouraged and supported.
US Hardwood imports
According to statistics from China's
Customs, in 2003 the total value of the U.S
hardwood wood products exported to China
was US$197.46 million, a year on year
increase of 19.4%.
Of the U.S hardwoods exported to China
sawnwood imports were 301,000 cubic
metres valued at US$191.3 million, a year
on year increase of 24% in volume and
30%in value.
China's imports were mainly of
89%), Red oak up 16%, Ash
Cherry (up 120%) and Yellow
53%). In addition to sawnwood,
Maple (up
(up 64%),
poplar (up
China also
15
imported a small volume of logs, veneer,
flooring, plywood and blockboard.
Hebei Shijiangzhuang Wholesale Market
Currently U.S hardwoods are very popular
with China's interior decoration and
furniture industry because of their
appearance, texture, workability and
consistency of grade. Today US hardwoods
are used widely in interior work in houses,
gymnasiums, office buildings, libraries,
opera houses, hotels and sports and cultural
centres.
Logs
Yuan per Cu.m
Korean Pine
4m 38cm dia
1350 
Mongolian Scots Pine
4m 30cm dia
1020 
6m 30+cm dia
1020 
Sawnwood
Mongolian Scots Pine
4m 5-6cm thick
1025 
4m 10cm thick
1025
Guangzhou City Imported Timber Market
Plywood
3mm 1220x2440
5mm 1220x2440
9mm
1220x2440
Logs
Radiata
Logs 6m 26cmdia
Luan Logs
Merbau 6m 60cm dia
Kapur/Keruing
60cm+ dia
Beech 30cm
Veneer Qual.
Yuan per Cu.m
Sawnwood
Teak Boards
Maple 2" KD
Cherry 2"
SE Asian Sawn 4m+
Yuan per Cu.m
7950-14500 
7500-11500 
8050-14000 
2800-3200
Plywood
Plywood
4x8 3mm
4x8 18mm
Yuan per sheet
950-1000 
1600-1800 
1800-2400 
28-82
Shandong De Zhou Timber market
1800-2000 
3500
22.5-33 
169
Shanghai Furen Wholesale Market
Sawnwood
Beech KD Grade AB
Cherry (25mm)
Tamalan
Sapele
Yuan per sheet
25-28
22-45
Yuan per Cu.m
3800-3900
11500-12000
6600
5300-5400 
Larch Logs
4m 24-28cm dia
6m 24-28cm dia
White Pine
4m 24-28cm dia
6m 24-28cm dia
Korean Pine
4m 30cm dia
6m 30cm dia
Yuan per Cu.m
920
950 
940
1050 
1100
1150
Tian Jin City Huan Bo Hai timber Market
Sawnwood
Yuan per Cu.m
US Black Walnut
2.6m 5cm thick
14000
Red Walnut 2.2m 5cm
3200
Sapele
2.2-3m 5cm thick
6300
For information on China's forestry try:
www.forestry.ac.cn
16
Update from France
Meeting point Paris
French Kitchen Furniture
The 'Salon du Meuble de Paris' traditionally
opens the annual furniture fair season and
next this fair will take place one week later
than usual, that is from January 13th to 17th
2005. Some 1,200 exhibitors from 40
countries and about 45,000 visitors
representing 100 countries are expected to
attend the fair. Opening to the general public
is on Saturday, January 15.
French consumption of kitchen furniture, at
current prices, showed growth of 3.6% in
2003, amounting to Euro 1117 million (Euro
1079 in 2002). The French kitchen furniture
import/consumption ratio is 16.3%, whereas
the export/production ratio is 9.5%.
In fact, French kitchen furniture exports
have been falling since 2001 and totalled
only Euro 98 million in 2003 (was Euro 114
million in 2001).
Flows of kitchen furniture exports to
Belgium (the leading outlet market),
Switzerland, the United Kingdom and
Germany all declined, exports to
Netherlands
remained
essentially
unchanged.
In terms of numbers of units, French exports
and imports of kitchen furniture in 2003
amounted to 39,000 and 76,000 kitchens
respectively.
France is a net importer of kitchens, at Euro
182 million, up 9% compared with 2002.
Germany, the leading supplier, is providing
increasing amounts of kitchens, while
imports from the United Kingdom have been
falling.
Italy and Spain are growing as suppliers
with market shares of 27% and 13%
respectively. The four countries mentioned
provide over 80% of all French kitchen
imports.
In 2003 France imported small but
increasing amounts of kitchens from
Denmark, China and Slovenia also. The
forecast for 2005 is for positive economic
growth and private consumption is expected
to remain stable.
Starting with the 2005 fair the event is
expected to be even more dynamic. The aim
of the event, say the organisers, is to
stimulate new energy in the sector, bearing
in mind the driving forces that underlie the
present
global
market
scenario:
internationalisation, tough competition,
restructured
distribution
concepts,
consumers' purchasing attitudes, and
behavioral trends in contemporary life.
A single theme, "l'Art de Vivre", will be
approached in different ways in a global
exhibition project, created in full
collaboration with the exhibitors. This
approach applies both to the lifestyle inside
our domestic landscape and outside in
community areas. Furnishings for residential
and institutional use are equally involved.
Based on a design concept by Daniel
Rozensztroch with set design by Paola
Navone, the 'VilleAge 2005' will take a look
at various aspects of contemporary culture,
providing a representation of new lifestyles
in our society through four theme
installations: Industriel Grand Siècle Ethnic Baroque - Rococo-Kitsch - Rustique
Excentrique.
The conceptual direction lies in the present
trend of looking to the past as inspiration for
new creativity in interior and exterior
decoration. Here modernity passes through
the filter of memory and is closely linked to
the excellence of the artisans' know how
worldwide, from East to West.
17
For the 2005 'La Métropole', the design
pavilion of the Salon du Meuble, will
present the theme "Nouvelle Vague"
proposed by Christophe Pillet, Art Director
since 1997.
"A new generation of consumers, companies
and entrepreneurs, designers and creative
talents is emerging today - says Pillet resulting from the redistribution of markets
and geographical centres of production and
this is redefining contemporary lifestyles.
We have called it "nouvelle vague" and this
new reality is the focus at La Métropole in
Paris, next January" said Pillet.
Company News
Maxalto on show in Paris
Maxalto, a brand of the Italian company B
& B Italia, a leading upholstered furniture
manufacturer at the top end of the market,
presented its new enlarged collection of
furniture in the company's Paris showroom,
on rue du Bac.
the deep waters of the Pacific, the sidereal
boundlessness of African deserts and Arctic
ice are brought to mind by sand-blasted
Namibia Rift and Boreal Wind, while
tropical jungles emerge from the green
texture of Green Borneo and Amazon.
The 2005 collection also marks the turning
point towards precious materials -such as
rootwood- and the revival of colours after
years of monochromes and the light/dark
combination of oak and wenge.
The new line was made possible by the
versatility of multi-laminated Alpilignum.
Unlike the traditional products, Alpilignum
allows the designer to create woods where
colours and grains become creative variables
for numberless combinations. The system
can use traditional woods such as oak and
wengè, to the most highly valued and rarest
species (ebony, palisander, teak), to the
development of a new concept (Concept
Wood) where colours and/or grains become
a true "exercise in style".
Incap modernises
The collection "Simplice" by the Italian
designer Antonio Citterio now includes new
models of furniture and tables, mainly in
dark wood and wood/leather, which are
characterized by a "quiet luxury" style. The
collection of sofas "Apta" has been renewed
and has become even more comfortable with
a "chaise longue" as a new additional
element.
News from Other EU countries
Italy's Alpi's "concept wood"
Alpi spa, a leading Italian company in
wooden finishing surfaces, presented its new
furniture 'Concept Wood' at the Pordenone's
Fair 'Zow' in October the collection
combined innovative technology and design.
'Concept Wood 2005' products recall typical
Latin American, African and Oceanian
views and offer plenty of aesthetic
suggestions. Blue Papua turquoise evokes
Incap Furniture Oy's expansion of their
furniture factory and Fine Pine Oy's new
laminated board and component factory in
Varpaisjärvi has been officially opened for
business. These factories work in close cooperation, Fine Pine manufactures laminated
boards and components that Incap Furniture
turns into ready-assembled furniture.
The investment in both companies is worth a
combined value of approximately EUR 8.8
million. The importance of these
investments on employment opportunities is
said to be significant.
Incap Furniture is one of the world's largest
manufacturers of pine furniture and it has
recently completed the refurbishment all of
its factories so that they use the logistics
center principle and the latest technology.
Total investments are said to have risen to
approximately EUR 33 million.
18
At the same time, the company has invested
in developing its networking activities to
assist Incap Furniture's subcontractors in
improving their competitiveness and to
enhance their productivity.
The company's network currently involves
more than 30 companies in Finland and
elsewhere.
Log Prices in the UK
FOB
plus commission
Sapele 80cm+LM-C
Iroko 80cm+LM-C
N'Gollon70cm+ LM-C
Ayous 80cm+LM-C
per Cu.m
Euro 270-285
Euro 335-360 
Euro 210-220
Euro 290-310 
News from the UK
Transport costs are raising concern again
and this concern, along with the problem of
availability means that importers are either
having to pay more or carry higher stocks.
The large contractors are now not prepared
to wait will orders are shipped.
Industrial output prices rose last month
lifting the annual rate of producer price
inflation to 3.5%, the highest for nine years.
The increase in oil prices have pushed up all
energy costs and kiln drying companies are
under pressure.
The UK economy is beginning to weaken
even though growth is said to be steady, the
growth is largely because of public sector
spending which could be cut back because
of the growing budget deficit.
UK Sawnwood Prices
FOB plus Commission
Brazilian Mahogany FAS
Teak 1st Quality 1"x8"x8'
Tulipwood FAS 25mm
Cedro FAS 25mm
DR Meranti Sel/Btr 25mm
Keruing Std/Btr 25mm
SapeleFAS 25mm
Iroko FAS 25mm
Khaya FAS 25mm
Utile FAS 25mm
Wawa No1. C&S 25mm
per Cu.m
Stg2035-2350
Stg325-340
Stg420-450
Stg355-375
Stg240-260
Stg345-360
Stg415-430
Stg345-360
Stg405-415
Stg215-225
Plywood and MDF in the UK
By the end of this month the building sector
will be stopping purchases prior to the
traditional 3 weeks holiday from the middle
of December until the end of the first week
of January.
CIF
per Cu.m
Brazilian WBP BB/CC 6mm US$570
" Mahogany 6mm
When last available
US$1265
Indonesian WBP 6mm
US$550-590
The biggest problem facing the government
is the pensions crisis which because of tax
changes back in 1997 could cost the country
some Sterling 10 billion which would
double the current deficit.
Eire, MDF BS1142
12mm
per 10 Sq.m CIF
Stg40.55 
Report from Holland
Agreement reached
In previous reports mention was made that
labour unions and the government in
Holland have had and this has become more
apparent since the spring when there seemed
to be even more of a divergence of views.
19
Union unrest and calls for strikes have been
rare in recent years in the country but
analysts say these are more visible since the
drastic economic measures announced by
the Government in September.
Through negotiations, however, November
started with an agreement signed by the
Unions and the Government. Important
issues like pre-pensioning, the so-called
'course of life-arrangement', wage-increase
etc was outlined and each side claimed
success.
With this agreement sealed, union unrest has
dissipated and the government has
confidence to move ahead with its goal of
bringing down the enormous costs of social
welfare and health-care. It can also try and
get the economy back on track and on the
road out of recession.
The issue of working more years is still a
hot topic because of the growing amount of
old people the argument is that productivity
will be increased by keeping people at work
longer and the state pension liability will be
reduced.
The Government now faces the task of
boosting productivity in a stagnating
economy with a high unemployment rate
and a worrying high (increasing) amount of
bankruptcies. A positive sign has been that
recent studies suggest that the Dutch
economy is showing modest signs of
recovery and a growth rate higher than
expected.
Quiet trading conditions
The Dutch market for Dark Red Meranti
(DRM) remained very quiet over the past 14
days. Actually, this is a prolongation of the
quiet spell that was signaled since the
summer holiday period which began back in
July. Landed stocks remain high say traders
and currently the stock position is simply
not in step with demand.
With the Christmas season fast approaching
some traders are very eager to realise some
sales before the market completely silent
from mid December through to January 10.
With the Euro exchange rate to the US
Dollar in the region of 1,30 (and with fears
of a rate soon a settling at near 1,3090,
which would be the lowest level ever since
the launch of the Euro) currency rates play
an important role in pulling prices down
further.
Pressure on prices
The pressure on the sales prices remains and
with the current poor demand from endusers
it is generally expected that the situation of
heavy discounts and a hollowing out of
trade-margins and even selling below cost,
will continue.
The low prices for the Dutch main size of
3x5" in DRM Bukit/Seraya makes it very
tough to get other hardwoods sold. Sapelli,
for instance, is purchased in Euro so there is
loss or gain in currency terms and besides,
the gross CNF cost of Sapelli is higher than
its Asian competitor.
Some analysts are of the opinion that the
quiet spell will continue for several more
months as there is can be no increase in
housing starts which indicates that timber
consumption will not increase for the time
being.
The weak demand that defines the market is
resulting in reduced buying interest on the
part of Dutch importers and exporters in
Malaysia are feeling this. This prolonged
quiet spell and the declining demand from
Dutch importers (Holland is the biggest
market for graded PHND DRM) has not yet
led importers into drastic price cuts.
Infact, the slowed demand may suit
exporters at the moment because the supply
in Malaysia is tight and has been made
tighter because the monsoon has started.
20
However turnover must be generated and
business must go on. Despite the difficulties
on the supply-side, analysts see that while
Rotterdam CNF prices remain quite steady
there are some trimmings be made here and
there.
Merbau prices, however, are still on the way
up due to the constant for certain sizes and
the short supply; nevertheless some traders
managed to secure some stocks over the past
weeks so that some trade in Merbau is still
possible.
Prices CNF Rotterdam per ton of 50 cu ft
Malaysian DRM Bukit
KD Sel.Bet PHND
3x5"
US$1125-1130 
Malaysian Nemesu KD
Sel & Btr PHND
3"x5"
US$1145-1150 
Indonesian DRM Bukit
KD Sel.Bet PHND
3x5"
US$1090 
Malaysian DRM Seraya
KD Sel.Bet PHND
in 3x5"
US$1145-1150 
Indonesian DRM Seraya
KD Sel.Bet PHND
in 3x5"
not available
MTCC Certified KD Seraya
Sel&Btr PHND 3x5
US$1160-1170
Merbau KD
Sel.Bet Sapfree
in 3x5"
US$1360-1400 
21
Internet Trade and Economy News
A recent study attempts to quantifies the economic impact of illegally produced roundwood in
the global market.
http://www.afandpa.org/
2nd European Conference on Wood Modification
http://www.ecwm.uni-goettingen.de/
6th International Symposium on Environment & Wood Preservation
http://www.ctba.fr/cannes2005/
The APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC) has published its annual report
http://www.apecsec.org.sg/apec/news___media/media_releases/111104_abacrecmdleaders.ht
ml
China getting ready for agriculture-products export trade
http://english.peopledaily.com.cn/200411/11/eng20041111_163610.html
Chinese official condemns US anti-dumping ruling against Chinese furniture
http://english.peopledaily.com.cn/200411/12/eng20041112_163643.html
Climate change report leaves U.S. policy unchanged under President George Bush
http://www.cnn.com/2004/TECH/science/11/10/bush.globalwarming.ap/index.html
Health, Environment & Efficacy Issues in the Development of Commercial Wood Protection
Systems – a Symposium by the American Chemical Society
http://www.irg-wp.com/documents/2005/ACS_WoodPreservationSymposium_Speakers2005.pdf
Study links tree rings to global warming
http://cnews.canoe.ca/CNEWS/Science/2004/11/02/697692.html
The US dollar plumbed new depths against the euro this week.
http://www.economist.com/agenda/displayStory.cfm?story_id=3372405
22
Dollar Exchange Rates 5th November 2004
Australia
Dollar
1.31
Japan
Yen
105.6
Bolivia
Boliviano
8
Korea, Rep. of
Won
1108.5
Brazil
Real
2.82
Liberia
Dollar
1
Cambodia
Riel
3850
Malaysia
Ringgit
3.8
Cameroon
C.F.A.Franc 506.49
Mexico
Peso
11.39
Canada
Dollar
Myanmar
Kyat
6.42
CAR
C.F.A.Franc 506.49
Nepal
Rupee
72
China
Yuan
8.28
New Zealand
NZ Dollar
1.44
Colombia
Peso
2537.4
Nigeria
Naira
133
Congo D.R
C.F.A Franc 506.49
Norway
Krone
6.31
Congo, P. Rep. C.F.A.Franc 506.49
Panama
Balboa
1
Cote d'Ivoire
C.F.A.Franc 506.49
Papua New Guinea
Kina
3.11
Denmark
Krone
5.73
Peru
New Sol
3.31
Ecuador
dollar
1
Philippines
Peso
56.34
Egypt
Pound
6.22
Russian Fed.
Ruble
28.66
EU
Euro
0.77
Surinam
Dollar (SRD) 2.7
Fiji
Dollar
1.69
Sweden
Krona
7.01
Gabon
C.F.A.Franc 506.49
Switzerland
Franc
1.18
Ghana
Cedi
9008.0
T hailand
Baht
40.83
Guyana
Dollar
179
T ogo, Rep.
C.F.A.Franc 506.49
Honduras, Rep. Lempira
18.52
T rinidad and T obago
Dollar
6.23
India
Rupee
45.05
United Kingdom
Pound
0.54
Indonesia
Rupiah
9058
Vanuatu
Vatu
109.5
Venezuela
Bolivar
1919.4
1.2
Abbreviations
LM
Loyale Merchant, a grade of log parcel
QS
CI
CE
CS
Qualite Superieure
Choix Industriel
Choix Economique
Choix Supplimentaire
FOB
KD
AD
Boule
Free-on-Board
Kiln Dry
Air Dry
A Log Sawn Through and Through
the boards from one log are bundled
together
BB/CC Grade B faced and Grade C backed
Plywood
BF
Board Foot
Sq.Ft Square Foot
Hoppus
ton
1.8 cubic metres
Cu.m
Koku
FFR
SQ
SSQ
FAS
Cubic Metre
0.278 Cu.m or 120BF
French Franc
Sawmill Quality
Select Sawmill Quality
Sawnwood Grade First and
Second
WBP Water and Boil Proof
MR
Moisture Resistant
pc
per piece
ea
each
MBF 1000 Board Feet
MDF Medium Density Fibreboard
F.CFA CFA Franc

Price has moved up or down
23
Appendix 1
Tropical Timber Product Price Trends
Tropical log FOB Price Trends
180
160
120
100
80
60
Meranti SQ & Up
Keruing SQ & Up
African Mahogany L-MC
Obeche L-MC
Sapele L-MC
Iroko L-MC
40
20
0
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
2003
Sep
Oct
2004
Meranti and Keruing Log FOB Price Trends
Price Index (Jan 1997=100)
100
90
80
70
60
Meranti SQ & Up
Keruing SQ & Up
50
40
Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun
2003
Jul
Aug Sep Oct
2004
W. African Log FOB Price Trends
African Mahogany L-MC
180
Obeche L-MC
Price Index (Jan 1997=100)
Price Index (Jan 1997=100)
140
160
Iroko L-MC
140
120
100
80
60
40
Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun
2003
Jul
Aug Sep Oct
2004
24
Tropical Sawnwood FOB Price Trends
140
100
80
60
40
Meranti
Sapele
Iroko
20
khaya
Utile
Wawa
0
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
2003
Sep
Oct
2004
Dark Red Meranti Sel & Btr FOB Price Trends
Price Index (Jan 1997=100)
95
90
85
80
75
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
2003
Sep
Oct
2004
African Mahogany FAS 25mm FOB Price Trends
120
Price Index (Ja n 1997=100)
Price Index (Jan 1997=100)
120
115
110
105
100
95
90
Nov
Dec
2003
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
2004
25
Other W. African Sawnwood FAS 25mm FOB Price Trends
Price Index (Jan 1997=100)
140
120
100
80
60
40
Wawa
Sapele
Iroko
20
0
Nov Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
2003
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
2004
Tropical Plywood FOB Price Trends
120
80
60
40
Indonesian 2.7mm
Indonesian 6mm
Brazilian Virola 5.2mm
Brazilian Pine 9mm
Malaysian 2.7mm
Malaysian 9mm
20
0
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
2003
Aug
Sep
Oct
2004
Indonesian Plywood FOB Price Trends
90
80
Price Index (Jan 1997=100)
Price Index (Jan 1997=100)
100
70
60
50
40
Indonesian 2.7mm
30
Indonesian 6mm
20
10
0
Nov
2003
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
2004
26
Malaysian Plywood FOB Price Trends
Price Index (Jan 1997=100)
90
80
70
60
50
Malaysian 2.7mm
Malaysian 9mm
40
30
Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun
Jul
2003
Aug Sep Oct
2004
Brazilian Plywood FOB Price Trends
Price Index (Jan 1997=100)
120
100
80
60
40
Virola 5.2mm
Pine 9mm
20
0
Nov
2003
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
2004
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27