North American lumber market: supply is no longer the problem

According to Global Wood Markets Info analysis of market data, company reports and housing indicators, the North American lumber market enters summer in a considerably healthier position than it did six months ago. Six months ago, most discussions focused on excess supply, weak pricing and mill profitability. Today, the market looks more balanced, largely because production has been removed faster than demand has improved. That distinction is important. Demand is not strong. Housing remains under pressure from elevated mortgage rates, affordability concerns and cautious consumer sentiment. Builders continue to buy carefully and distributors remain reluctant to build ...