Uncertainties in Belgium’s wood industry: softwood lumber decline, steady hardwood market

The market for softwood lumber in Belgium has been declining since 2022 due to reduced activity in the building sector. Due to rising interest rates and increasing costs for the consumers, the number of constructions/renovations is decreasing since 2022. In Belgium's hardwood market, activity remains steady. Chinese competition for oak is currently decreasing, which makes it easier for supply of local companies. In general, but more particularly for public forests, the wood industry is concerned about a decrease in the volumes of wood from the public forests.  The prices of by-products, which had ...