European sawmills make big move in Japan

European sawmills have significantly expanded their footprint in the Japanese market, with shipments of softwood lumber rising sharply in the first half of 2025. Trade data show exports from the European Union reached 1.83 million cubic meters (cbm), a 46% jump compared with the same period in 2024, highlighting Japan’s growing demand for high-quality construction timber. Sweden and Finland led the charge, increasing deliveries by 59% and 67% respectively. Austria and Germany also posted solid gains, while Romania recorded a slight decline. Smaller European exporters contributed to the surge, demonstrating a broader continental push into Asia ...