Sawnwood Trade
Sawnwood is processed roundwood that has been cut into strips ready for use in construction or the manufacture of solid wood products (e.g. furniture). Typically, sawnwood is produced close to the forests, to reduce roundwood transportation costs.
Rudimentary sawmills can be relatively inexpensive and an effective way to add value. Modern, high efficiency, sawmills can have high recovery rates, reducing residues and maximising the higher value products. International trade in sawnwood averages around 150 million cubic metres p.a.
Sawnwood - Import & Export
Sawnwood - Top 20 Importing Countries (2019-23)
China and the USA are the largest importers of sawnwood, averaging 21.6% and 18.5% of all imports in recent years. Both import from their near neighbours, China from Russia and the USA from Canada. The UK is the third largest importer of sawnwood.
Sawnwood - Top 20 Exporting Countries (2019-23)
Russia and Canada are the dominant global exporters of sawnwood, averaging 18.6% and 17.4% of the total export trade. Russian exports have been impacted by sanctions and Canadian exports by trade conflicts with the USA. Sweden, Germany and Finland are large scale suppliers into the European market.