HS Code:
Birch (Betula spp.) and beech (Fagus spp.) fall under the category of hardwood timber and wood products, often classified under HS Code 4403 (Wood in the rough) or HS Code 4407 (Sawn or chipped wood). These species are primarily used in furniture manufacturing, construction, and paper production due to their durability, aesthetic appeal, and workability. Birch is known for its light color and fine grain, making it popular for veneer and plywood, while beech is valued for its strength and uniform texture, often used in cabinetry and flooring. Global trade in these species is influenced by sustainable forestry practices, regional availability, and demand from the construction and furniture industries.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $2.5 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database & International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO)
$600 million USD
24% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing due to export restrictions and geopolitical tensions
$400 million USD
16% of total trade of total trade
Stable with strong domestic processing capacity
$350 million USD
14% of total trade of total trade
Increasing due to rising demand in construction
$300 million USD
12% of total trade of total trade
Increasing with growth in European exports
$250 million USD
10% of total trade of total trade
Stable with focus on sustainable forestry
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
15% (imposed by certain developing countries to protect local industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU Single Market or USMCA)
Rising demand for sustainable wood products
Increased preference for certified birch and beech from sustainably managed forests, driving up prices for compliant suppliers
2021-2023
Shift towards engineered wood products
Reduced demand for raw birch and beech logs as manufacturers opt for plywood and laminated products, impacting traditional exporters
2020-2022
Geopolitical disruptions affecting supply chains
Sanctions and export bans on Russian timber have led to supply shortages in Europe, pushing buyers towards alternative suppliers like Romania and the Baltics
2022-2023
The European Union has updated its timber regulation framework, mandating stricter due diligence for birch and beech imports to combat illegal logging.
June 2023
Increased compliance costs for exporters but improved market access for certified suppliers
Russia, a major supplier of birch, imposed a temporary ban on raw log exports to encourage domestic processing and address illegal logging concerns.
January 2022
Significant reduction in global birch supply, leading to price spikes and shifts to alternative sourcing regions
The United States introduced additional tariffs on beech wood products from specific countries as part of broader trade negotiations.
March 2023
Higher costs for US importers, potentially reducing demand for beech in favor of domestic alternatives