China

In 2011, China has leapfrogged Japan, Mexico, and even Canada to become the largest export market for U.S. softwoods. China imported more than 147.6 mmbf from the U.S. in 2010, more than a 180% increase over 2009. The Chinese market continues to grow, with 2011 imports through the first six months exceeding the 2010 number during the same time period by some 77%.

The largest end-use market in China continues to be concrete forming for large projects such as the 6,200 miles of high-speed rail line slated to be built by 2014. With the world’s fastest growing economy and a rapidly expanding middle class, China’s appetite for lumber imports will continue to grow in the coming years and, we predict, end use markets for that wood will continue to expand beyond the limited use we see today.

Through American Softwoods, SEC maintains offices in China (http://www.amso-china.org/) to assist members in their export efforts.