HS Code:
The Coniferous category, primarily under HS Code 4407 (Wood sawn or chipped lengthwise, sliced or peeled, whether or not planed, sanded or end-jointed, of a thickness exceeding 6 mm, specifically for coniferous species), encompasses timber and wood products derived from coniferous trees such as pine, spruce, fir, and cedar. These products are widely used in construction, furniture manufacturing, and paper production due to their strength, durability, and availability. Coniferous wood is a critical raw material in the global forestry industry, with trade heavily influenced by regional availability of forests, environmental regulations, and demand in construction sectors.
Total Trade Volume
USD 35.6 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
Average Rate
5.2%
Highest Rate
15% (imposed by certain developing countries to protect domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like NAFTA/USMCA and EU trade pacts)
Rising demand for sustainable wood products
Increased focus on certified sustainable coniferous wood has boosted trade from countries with strict forestry regulations like Canada and Sweden, while impacting exporters lacking certification.
2021-2022
Impact of global construction boom
Surging construction activities, especially in Asia-Pacific and North America, have driven up demand for coniferous timber, leading to higher export volumes from major producers.
2020-2022
Geopolitical disruptions
Sanctions and export restrictions on Russian timber due to geopolitical tensions have shifted trade flows, benefiting alternative suppliers like Canada and Finland.
2022
The European Union implemented stricter regulations requiring proof of deforestation-free supply chains for wood imports, affecting coniferous trade.
June 2023
Exporters must adapt to new compliance requirements, potentially increasing costs but benefiting certified sustainable producers.
Ongoing negotiations between the US and Canada regarding softwood lumber tariffs saw a temporary reduction in duties, easing trade tensions.
March 2023
Improved market access for Canadian coniferous wood in the US, stabilizing prices for construction materials.
Russia imposed a ban on raw timber exports to encourage domestic processing, significantly reducing its coniferous wood exports.
January 2022
Global supply shortages initially drove prices up, but alternative suppliers have since filled the gap in many markets.