Global softwood lumber markets – tariffs, turbulence, and new trade flows

Global softwood lumber markets are entering a period of significant change. After years of weak demand and high volatility, the 2025–2030 outlook points to a gradual recovery—driven by economic improvement in Europe and China, supply constraints across North America, and new trade flows emerging from tariffs and policy shifts. Slow growth, major shifts Softwood lumber remains a USD 80 billion global industry, growing only 1.8% per year in nominal terms since 2000. Beneath this modest headline, demand and trade are transforming. Consumption has shifted toward Asia, while North America and Europe remain the backbone of ...