According to information released from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), 2012 was a successful year for exports of American hardwood to Australia.
The figures show 8,556 cubic metres of American hardwood lumber exports to Australia in 2012 marking an increase of 11% over 2011 and a value of USD7.24m.
As in 2011, American white oak dominated in 2012 accounting for 75% of the total volume of lumber shipped to Australian shores. However ash exports grew and red oak and tulipwood were shipped to Australia for the first time in 2012 as demand for a greater variety of species grew.
“American hardwood species definitely gathered momentum in 2012,” said Matthew Lee from Sydney’s Specialty Timber Traders.
“We have experienced a consistent demand from different sectors of the market and particularly in specified joinery applications.”
“The fact that the American species have strong environmental credentials certainly appears to have helped,” Mr Lee added.
Roderick Wiles, Director for the American Hardwood Export Council for Oceania said that the figures were very encouraging.
“Australian architects, specifiers and designers are increasingly well versed in what American hardwoods have to offer in the context of the market.”
“The fact that these customers have the reputation for being discerning and environmentally conscious in their choice makes us particularly pleased that American hardwoods are being selected with greater frequency in Australia”
