New Zealand radiata pine exports could rise above the NZ$1bn mark in the next five years thanks to the zeal of Ameican DIYers.
The New Zealand Pine Manufacturers Association says value-added pine exports are currently worth NZ$475m, or 13% of the wood product industry’s NZ$3.6bn foreign exchange earnings.
Ten years ago pine was a “non-existent” export industry but is now expected to account for 25% of total export earnings in forest and wood products by 2007.
US demand for New Zealand radiata is mainly due to a lack of ponderosa pine and a healthy housing market.
Building products in demand include weatherboards, fascia, handrails, door jambs, mouldings, window, door and stairparts and wall panelling and flooring.
