Authorities ordered a shutdown of Kronospan’s particleboard line after an environmental inspection, although the measure is now under court challenge.
News in international markets
US Commerce Department Issues Preliminary Countervailing Duties on Hardwood Plywood From China, Indonesia, and Vietnam
The US announced preliminary countervailing duties ranging from 2.40% to 128.66% on hardwood and decorative plywood imports from China, Indonesia, and Vietnam, Wiley Rein said.
Storm Damages Up to 4 Million Cubic Meters of Forest in Finland
Storm Hannes damaged an estimated 3.5–4 million cubic meters of forest in Finland, with impacts spread across several regions, the Finnish Forest Centre said.
Canada and China Sign MOU to Promote Modern Wood Construction
BC and China signed a five-year MOU to promote modern wood construction and mass timber, The Canadian Press reported.
Trading With Iran Raises Risk of New US Tariffs on Brazil
Brazil’s trade ties with Iran are drawing scrutiny after President Trump warned of 25% US tariffs on countries doing business with Tehran, Reuters reported.
Bushfires Destroy Up to 400,000 Hectares of Forests in Victoria, Australia
Two mega bushfires in Victoria have destroyed up to 400,000 hectares (988,000 acres) of forest, heavily impacting plantations and communities, Wood Central reported.
US Wood Pellet Exports Decline in October
US wood pellet exports totaled 814,292.7 metric tons in October, the USDA and Biomass Magazine reported.
Severe Storm Fells Estimated 10 Million Cubic Meters of Forest in Sweden
Storm Johannes is estimated to have felled about 10 million cubic meters of forest across northern Sweden, the Sweden Herald reported.
Högland to Upgrade Log Sorting Station at Anundsjö Sawmill in Sweden
Högland will upgrade the log sorting station at its Anundsjö sawmill in Sweden under an agreement with RemaSawco.
December Storm Causes Extensive Forest Damage in Northern Sweden
A late December storm caused extensive forest damage in northern Sweden, according to the Swedish Farmers’ Association.