HS Code:
The 'Rough, or touch sanded for sizing purposes, but not further processed' category typically pertains to wood or wood-based products under the Harmonized System (HS) classification, likely falling within Chapter 44 (Wood and Articles of Wood). This category includes timber or wood panels that have undergone minimal processing, such as rough sawing or light sanding, primarily for dimensional accuracy, without additional finishing or treatment. These products are often used as raw materials in construction, furniture manufacturing, or further processing industries. Global trade in this category is influenced by factors such as forestry regulations, sustainability concerns, and demand for raw materials in industrial and construction sectors.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $5.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database / International Trade Centre (ITC)
$1.3 billion USD
25% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$900 million USD
17% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
$750 million USD
14% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$600 million USD
12% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$400 million USD
8% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (imposed by certain developing economies to protect local industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like NAFTA/USMCA or EU single market)
Rising demand for sustainable and certified wood products
Increased trade in regions with strict forestry management (e.g., North America, Scandinavia) while reducing exports from areas with deforestation concerns
2021-2023
Shift towards domestic processing in exporting countries
Countries like Russia and Brazil are imposing export tariffs or restrictions on rough wood to encourage value-added processing domestically
2020-2022
Impact of global construction slowdown
Reduced demand in key markets like China and the EU due to economic slowdowns, affecting trade volumes temporarily
2022-2023
The European Union implemented stricter regulations on wood imports to combat deforestation, requiring traceability and sustainability certification for rough wood products.
June 2023
Increased compliance costs for exporters to the EU, potentially reducing trade from non-compliant regions while benefiting certified suppliers.
Russia increased export tariffs on rough timber to encourage domestic processing amid geopolitical tensions and sanctions.
January 2022
Significant reduction in Russian exports to Europe, redirecting trade flows to Asian markets like China.
Ongoing negotiations between the US and Canada regarding softwood lumber trade disputes, focusing on tariffs and quotas for rough wood products.
March 2023
Potential stabilization of trade volumes between the two countries if a new agreement is reached, reducing market uncertainty.