The European Timber Trade Association (FEBO) believes the industry’s current downturn in Western Europe will continue throughout 2003.
FEBO, which held its general assembly at the Interzum fair in Cologne, says Germany, Austria and Switzerland are worst affected, while Belgium, Luxembourg and France can hope at best to equal last year’s results.
In contrast, Sweden, Denmark and Finland are benefitting from an ongoing construction boom, plus investments in the renovation sector, while Baltic countries are enjoying double-figure growth rates.
FEBO attributes a slowing down of the English timber trade in 2002 to a decline in demand for building. Forecasts for the UK this year are “very cautious”.
A further major issue discussed by FEBO members is the continuing lack of demand for certified timber products, which means they are only playing a minor role in the European timber trade. The trade is “against” the preference of one certification system and supports mutal recognition of various schemes.
Other topics included the EU‘s eastern enlargement and the introduction of CE marking for panel products used in construction.
