Vietnam’s Wood Exports to the US Up 7% in Value in December

Vietnam’s wood and wood product exports to the US in December reached US$887.4 million, up 7% compared to November and up 19% year-over-year, the International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO) reported.

The wood products industry experienced a spectacular export performance in 2024 following a sharp 16% decline during 2023, Ngo Sy Hoai, Vice Chairperson and Secretary General of the Vietnam Timber and Forest Product Association (VIFOREST), told the ITTO.

Despite the success, challenges are ahead as both the EU and US markets increasingly demand stricter traceability of wood origin. Alongside enforcing green growth and digital transformation criteria, Ngo said that VIFOREST will prioritize enhancing trade defense capabilities for businesses in an effort to drive the industry forward.

Vietnam’s wood production in 2024 was estimated to have reached 23.3 million m³, up from 20.8 million m³ in 2023. This growth reflects the country’s continuous investment in forestry and expanding plantation areas. A significant portion of the timber harvested in Vietnam comes from plantation forests, which account for over 80% of the total output.

The shift towards plantation forestry has been a deliberate strategy, as Vietnam aims to reduce pressure on natural forests while meeting the rising demand for raw materials. The government’s afforestation programs and incentives for private sector participation have contributed to this outcome.

One of the most prominent trends in Vietnam’s wood industry is the focus on sustainable forest management and the use of certified wood. As global consumers increasingly demand environmentally responsible products, Vietnamese manufacturers are adopting international standards such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification. By 2024, over 1 million hectares (2.47 million acres) of forests in Vietnam will be FSC-certified, reflecting the country’s commitment to sustainable practices.