Apr 01, 2008. /Lesprom.com/. US timber and forest products imports had increased in Brazil, opening up a new market niche, ITTO reported. Brazilian imports of forest products and sawnwood increased 18.3% and 164.3%, respectively, from 2005 to 2006. Since 2007, the American Hardwood Export Council had been working to promote the use and advantages of American hardwoods to Brazilian companies. Timber products made of cherry, red oak, white oak and maple are widely exported but still have a small market share in Brazil. Experts indicate that imports of American timber/veneer can help Brazilian companies maintain or even expand their participation in international markets. According to the Association of Furniture Industry of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazilian companies are encouraged to seek business opportunities involving the use of American hardwood. Brazilian companies importing raw materials can benefit from tax returns if they re-export these goods. Furniture companies of the southern state of Rio Grande do Sul have already carried out studies on prices and quality of American hardwood for possible import.