India Major Market for American Hardwoods

India Major Market for American Hardwoods

India is emerging as a major market for American hardwood lumber, with over US$ 5,80,000 worth of imports entering the country during the firsthalf of 2011, according to RoderickWiles (rod@americanhardwood.org),AHEC director for Middle East, Africa, Asia and Oceania. AmericanHardwood Export Council (AHEC)is an international trade association for the American hardwood industry.

The latest export data from the United States Department ofAgriculture (USDA) Foreign Agricultural Service shows that the value of American hardwood logs shipped to India in the first six months of 2011 increased by 189% over the same period last year, and reached a total of US$ 1.109 million.This equated to a 277% increase in volume, with the total volume of shipments reaching 2,331 cubic metres. At the same time, US hardwood veneer shipments to India saw a significant increase of 49% in value to US$ 1.02 million, as compared to the first half of 2010.

“The Indian market continues to show promising growth for our hardwoods and American walnut in particular, which is currently in high demand across the globe, as it is mostsuitable for interior applications and furniture,” says Wiles. According to him, India’s construction sector has witnessed positive growth in 2011, and is expected to key in more growth with theinflux of projects over the next five years. He adds, “We are confident that this will lead to even greater demand for US hardwoods in the coming years.”

According to USDA reports, American walnut worth US$ 1,94,000 was imported into India from January to June 2011, making up a large part of hardwood lumber entering the country. This translates into more than 237 cubic metres, reflecting a 143% increase in value and a 119% increase in quantity. Imports ofAmerican maple reached US$ 1,06,000 or around 125 cubic metres, which represents an 84% increase in value and a 92% increase in quantity. Further, imports of American ash for January to June of 2011 were at US$ 96,000 or 185 cubic metres,marking a 322% increase in value and a 585% increase in quantity.

Wiles explains that AHEC’s target audience includes architects, contractors, consultants, interior designers and craftsmen. “The increase in our hardwood imports into India shows the positive result of our promotional initiatives. This has encouraged us to continue with our efforts in reaching outto our target groups, and further inform them of the range of choice, quality and the environmental credentials carried by the hardwoods when used across construction and interior design projects in these regions,” he adds.