Russian exporters of logs and lumber had a good opportunity to increase shipments given the much-depreciated Russian Ruble. But log exports declined last quarter, and softwood sawlog exports rose just 2 to 3% in the 4th quarter of 2014. But 2015 should see increases.

In Cuba, wood industry opportunities will have to wait until Congress acts on trade restrictions. With diplomatic relations normalized last week by the White House, it's likely tourism will grow, affecting U.S. hospitality furniture manufacturers.

Exportation of logs and lumber from North America to China fell by 17% to 2.1 billion dollars in 2012, but a turn-around in shipments is expected in 2013, reports the Wood Resource Quarterly.

The usual, seasonal pattern of higher foreign demand for North American hardwoods in October did not materialize this year. Instead, buyers in most countries remained cautious.

Sawmills anticipate a shortage of hardwood logs and contract loggers. Also, red oak prices stabilize from the huge drops over the last few months.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has confirmed the presence of the emerald ash borer (EAB) in the United Counties of Prescott and Russell.

According to Wood Resource Quarterly, global trade of softwood logs increased by almost 20% in the first quarter 2010, after having fallen 30% over the past two years.