Recovery in the US housing market has benefited the timber sector in Paraná State, Brazil. Sawnwood exports grew 16.7% to $64.9 million in the first half of 2015 compared to the same period last year. Plywood exports from mills in the state also increased, growing by almost 19% to $185.3 million in the same period.

Plywood

Paraná State, Brazil: Sawnwood exports grew 16.7% in 1H 2015

Aug 10, 2015. /Lesprom Network/. Recovery in the US housing market has benefited the timber sector in Paraná State, Brazil. Sawnwood exports grew 16.7% to $64.9 million in the first half of 2015 compared to the same period last year. Plywood exports from mills in the state also increased, growing by almost 19% to $185.3 million in the same period, ITTO reported.

MDF and plywood are primarily used in the construction and furniture industries in America. As a result of the 2008 financial crisis demand in the US for woodbased panels fell sharply. Prior to 2008 around 50% of exports from Paraná were destined for the US but this fell to 15% during the crisis and while there has been some improvement. Currently the US accounts for just 22% of wood product exports from Paraná State.

The Paraná Institute for Economic and Social Development has forecast an improvement in exports in the second half of this year which should offset the poor performance in the first half.