world news - 26.03.2003
West African Timber Prices
Once again no prices changes were reported for logs since mid February.
Prices remain stable and production continues rather low for the time of the
year. Cameroon sawmillers still building up log stock before the rains set in.
The main news is that loggers and millers are complaining about the new taxes in
Gabon and more regulations in Gabon and Cameroon.
West African Sawnwood
Sawmills in the region still very busy with full order books but there are no
signs of any moves to increase prices for either logs or lumber in spite of the
additional taxes and difficult to apply regulations.
As mentioned in previous reports, the relatively low priced South American
lumber and the slightly less buoyant prices for Meranti/Seraya seem to have
ruled out any substantial prices changes for W. African suppliers this month
though perhaps in the second quarter we may see a gentle upwards trend.
Some operators have already moved plant and equipment from Gabon and Cameroon to
other countries in the region to avoid the mounting new rules and regulations.
Others are said to be contemplating a move within the next 2 years.
There is some renewed interest in the region from Asian operators and one has
already made an investment
See also:
- — DENMARK: Danske Equities Downgrades Danish Brdr. Hartmann to «Sell» After 2002 Report
- — AUSTRIA: Austrian Forestry Authority To Expand Operations under Restructuring Programme
- — Japan plywood market in March
- — Continental Management Timber Industry has earmarked $77 million to upgrade its Eniseiskiy plant in Russia's Siberia region
- — Wood-based panels industry hoping for further improvements