Oct 14, 2013. /Lesprom Network/. The German Timber Trade Federation (GD Holz) said that total trade contracted a further 7% in the 1Q. But, thanks to a stronger May and June, the first half deficit was only 3.2% The key factor was increased production in the woodworking and joinery sectors, which predict stronger sales through the summer, as the European Timber Trade Federation said in the press release received by Lesprom Network.

In the first six months overall, German wood panel sales were up 1%, but profiled and sawn timber were below 2012 levels, while the long winter depressed timber garden products demand 11.5%.But in June total trade was up 1% compared to last year, with better weather boosting garden products by 6%.

“Only about 10% of timber traders expect a rise in turnover in the next quarter, but generally the mood is now cautiously optimistic,” said a GD Holz spokesperson.

Timber imports remain depressed, he added, notably in garden products, with some suspecting the EU Timber Regulation (EUTR) of adversely affecting business – its effects are due to be evaluated at the end of the year.

However, the German industry is forecasting overall annual sales to be on a level with 2012.

The German Timber Trade Federation (GD Holz) is divided into five sections: wholesaling, retailing, foreign trade, round timber trade and veneer business.