Weak softwood log import market in China

Chinese log buyers continue to struggle with credit issues and log demand in New Zealand is reducing as construction activity declines due to high inflation and interest costs.  China softwood log inventory has increased slightly to about 4m m3 with radiata accounting for about 3.15 m3 of the total. Port off-take has remained steady ranging round 70-75k m3 per day. Supply volume from New Zealand will drop significantly over the next couple of months as many forest owners in New Zealand have stopped or slowed down harvest operations. Many ports in New Zealand have now ...