Sustainability – for Europe’s timber industry this has long been more than just a declaration of intent. It has become a central criterion in the purchasing process, and for more and more customers it is now a fixed requirement of their wood products. And law-makers at both national and European level have set strict criteria as to the origin of imported timber – as, for instance, in the European Timber Regulation (EUTR). The EUTR requires anyone supplying timber or timber products for the first time on the EU market to assess the potential risks related to the products (origin, species, etc.) and mitigate those risks if necessary.
Nowadays practically all European forestry businesses and wood processing companies have subscribed to a voluntary, independent certification system, thus acknowledging the principles and criteria of responsible forest management. The most important criteria are reforestation and socially responsible, sustainable use of forests. Paramount among international certifications are the PEFC and Forest Stewardship Council (FSC®).
Your tropical woods from Peru
In Europe and the rest of the world, the demand for tropical wood is concentrated on a small number of species such as mahogany, teak, bangkirai and meranti. The popularity of these woods has led to intense exploitation of these resources as well as rising prices. It is not only for sustainability reasons that a growing number of less familiar and lesser used tropical woods are becoming the main focus of economic interest. This opens new opportunities for wood companies from Peru. With their good weathering properties, Peruvian tropical hardwoods are especially suitable for exterior uses such as decking and garden furniture. This is why these woods are very popular in rainy Northern, Western and Eastern Europe.
Sustainability certification such as FSC® is now crucial if you want to export your tropical woods to Europe. You are not FSC® certified yet? The IPD will support you in this process if you fulfil our criteria - thus smoothing your path to the European markets.
Your light woods from Indonesia
Timber exporters from Indonesia, too, have increasing good prospects on the European market. The light, fast-growing woods from this island state satisfy customers’ demands for an environmentally friendly and quickly renewable resource. Lightweight wood products from Indonesia are also much sought-after because of their particular material properties when used as a composite product in combination with tropical wood varieties. Whether in furniture or interior construction, wood from Indonesia is in great demand in Europe.
Your bamboo and teak products from Colombia and Ecuador
Bamboo has been increasingly used as a substitute for tropical timber in the European market. Value-added bamboo products are becoming popular due to their characteristics of durability and strength, which resemble the qualities of tropical wood, thus providing an interesting alternative. As natural teak resources are becoming scarce, plantation teak products have become an option for European timber traders.
The Import Promotion Desk will support you on your way to the European market.
