Lumber price forecast for North America remains optimistic despite notable price discrepancies

Trends remained mixed in North American lumber markets, although roles were often reversed. Southern Pine, which had been the laggard in recent weeks, took on a firmer tone. Meanwhile, Canadian and West Coast species languished amid moribund demand. In Southern Pine, a growing number of mills extended order files into or even beyond scheduled holiday curtailments, and urgency to alleviate buildups eased as a result. Discounts moderated or dissipated altogether in many items that had previously declined for several weeks. Mills firmed quotes, especially in the middle widths, after clearing floor stock in early trading. SYP was ...