The value of U.S. hardwood lumber exports to India topped USD 664,224 in the first quarter of 2019, according to the American Hardwood Export Council (AHEC), the leading international trade association for the American hardwood industry. The statistics, compiled from the latest data released by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), reveal an incredible 273% increase in the value of exports compared to the same time period last year. In addition, the volume of American hardwood lumber shipped to India in the first three months of this year reached 1,168 cubic meters, an increase by 397% from the 235 cubic meters recorded in the same time period last year.
Red oak, hickory and white oak have massive potential for consumption across different sectors and both for domestic and export manufacturing in India. "The increase in exports to India is representative of the change we have been witnessing in India. There is a genuine interest in buying kiln-dried American hardwood lumber from a growing number of manufacturers, and we strongly believe that more will follow," said Roderick Wiles, AHEC Regional Director.
India has traditionally been a log-focused market. A study by the World Bank projects that India's organized furniture industry will cross USD 32 billion this year. Awareness is increasing, perceptions are changing, and demand is on the rise. AHEC believes that this could be a turning point in the market.
