Logs imports of Guangdong Province, China, totalled 719,000 cubic metres during the period from January to July 2010. Log imports were 60% higher compared to the same period last year, hitting a record high, ITTO reoprted.
Of the total, log imports from the EU increased 33% to 263,000 cubic metres, while log imports from ASEAN countries increased 160% to 146,000 cubic metres. These two regions accounted for 57% of the total log imports. In addition, log imports from Australia rose by 190% to 47,000 cubic metres and from Mozambique by 170% to 40,000 cubic metres.
According to analysts, there are two main reasons for the increase in log imports. Firstly, timber product demand in some parts of the European and ASEAN markets is growing as consumers purchasing power is improving in line with the economic recovery. Secondly, domestic demand for timber is increasing driven by booming real estate, furniture and flooring markets.
