From July 1, 2021, Russia introduces new duties on the export of green lumber with a moisture content exceeding 22%. The decree was signed by Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin.
The duty for softwood and oak lumber will be 10%, but not less than Euro 13 and Euro 15 per 1 m3, respectively. Previously, duties were not charged on these species. The export duties on beech and ash lumber will also amount to 10%, but not less than Euro 50 per 1 m3 (before - Euro 10 and Euro 12 per 1 m3, respectively).
Humidity limitation separates air-dried (green) lumber from kiln-dried lumber. The kiln dried lumber is trading at substantially higher prices.
The duties will be in effect until the end of 2021 and, according to the government, will restrict the export of logs and unprocessed timber under the guise of sawn timber, and restrain the rise in prices for lumber in the domestic market.
At the same time, the government is planning broader restrictions on timber exports. Ministry of Industry and Trade of Russia has drafted a resolution to include the lumber in the list of goods that are essential for the domestic market, in respect of which temporary restrictions or export bans may be imposed. The department explains this measure by the deficit of lumber in the domestic market.
