Brazilian Exports of Wood-Based Products Drop in August Due to Shipping Issues
According to the International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO), the value of Brazilian exports of wood-based products (except pulp and paper) in August decreased 10.8% compared to August 2023, from US$300.7 million to US$268.4 million.
On a monthly basis, exports declined 21% due to shipping difficulties. Uncertainties related to maritime transport are negatively impacting the sector, even as exporters manage to overcome challenges such as high production costs and internal logistics. Competition for space on ships and rising freight costs are among the main factors affecting the sector.
Pine sawnwood exports decreased 9.2% in value to US$48.3 million in August, down from US$53.2 million in August 2023. In volume, exports decreased 10.4%, from 230,100 m3 in August 2023 to 206,200 m3 in August.
Tropical sawnwood exports declined 33.1% in volume to 17,600 m3 in August, down from 26,300 m3 in August 2023. In value, exports decreased 48.4% over the same time period, from US$12.6 million to US$6.5 million.
Pine plywood was the only product category to post an increase in foreign sales. Exports increased 8.9% in value to US$58.5 million in August compared to US$53.7 million in August 2023. In volume, exports increased 3.0% over the same period, from 168,500 m3 to 173,600 m3.
Tropical plywood exports decreased 40.0% in value and 37.5% in volume, from US$1.5 million and 2,400 m3 in August 2023 to US$0.9 million and 1,500 m3 in August.
The value of wood furniture exports decreased 10.6%, from US$54.0 million in August 2023 to US$48.3 million in August.
FEA compiles the Wood Markets News from various 3rd party sources to provide readers with the latest news impacting forest product markets. Opinions or views expressed in these articles do not necessarily represent those of FEA.