HS Code:
The category of pine (Pinus spp.) under the Harmonized System (HS) Code generally pertains to products derived from pine trees, including timber, wood products, and sometimes pine nuts or resin. Pine is a softwood widely used in construction, furniture, paper production, and packaging due to its availability, strength, and versatility. This category often falls under HS codes like 4403 (wood in the rough) or 4407 (sawn or chipped wood), depending on the specific product form. Pine is predominantly sourced from temperate and boreal forests in North America, Europe, and parts of Asia, making it a significant commodity in global trade with applications across multiple industries.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $15 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and International Trade Centre (ITC)
$3.2 billion USD
21.3% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$2.8 billion USD
18.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$1.5 billion USD
10.0% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$1.3 billion USD
8.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$1.1 billion USD
7.3% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
15% (imposed by certain developing countries on raw timber imports to protect local industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like NAFTA/USMCA or EU single market)
Increased demand for sustainable pine products
Higher demand for certified sustainable timber has led to a premium on FSC-certified pine, influencing pricing and sourcing strategies.
2021-2023
Shift towards engineered wood products
Growing use of pine in cross-laminated timber (CLT) for eco-friendly construction is boosting demand in Europe and North America.
2020-2023
Geopolitical disruptions affecting supply chains
Sanctions on Russian pine exports due to geopolitical tensions have shifted supply chains towards North American and Scandinavian suppliers.
2022-2023
Negotiations between the US and Canada regarding tariffs and quotas on softwood lumber (including pine) are ongoing, with potential impacts on pricing and market access.
Mid-2023
Possible reduction in tariffs could stabilize prices for US consumers and increase Canadian export volumes.
The EU has introduced stricter regulations requiring proof of deforestation-free supply chains for pine and other wood products entering the market.
June 2023
Increased compliance costs for exporters but potential long-term benefits for sustainable forestry practices.
Mountain pine beetle infestations have damaged large swathes of pine forests in Canada and the US, reducing supply and increasing prices.
Ongoing since 2020
Short-term supply shortages and higher prices; long-term push for pest-resistant pine species and reforestation efforts.