China resumes US log imports, but market recovery may be gradual

On November 7, the General Administration of Customs officially reopened the channel for U.S. log imports into China, ending a long period of suspension. This move restores access to American timber after months of disruption, but industry insiders caution that a rapid rebound in import volumes is unlikely. During the trade suspension, many Chinese buyers turned to alternative suppliers, including Canada, Russia, and Europe. Contracts were already signed, logistics were adjusted, and supply chains reorganized, meaning that returning to U.S. sources cannot happen immediately. At the same time, the domestic real estate market remains in a period ...