US softwood lumber exports overseas rose 54% in 2010 to 666 million board feet, according to industry newsletter Random Lengths.
While exports surged, imports fell 25% to 384 million board – the fifth straight year of decline.
The weak dollar and poor US demand were the main reasons for the increased export share.
Shipments to Asian countries boosted the figures, with Japanese business up 41% to 160 million board feet.
China had the biggest growth rate of any US export market. Exports to China rose 185% from 2009 levels to 141 million board feet.
Rebuilding work following the Haiti earthquake also contributed to volumes, while shipments to Libya grew by 171% to 9 million board. Volumes to Egypt rose by 84%, and those to Pakistan increased 64%.
Exports to Europe rose 24% to 31 million board feet.
Douglas fir was the top overseas export species, increasing by 59% to 232 million board feet. Southern yellow pine shipments grew 27% to 197 million board feet.
