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Affected by the hurricane, there was a shortage of log supply in New Zealand in the first quarter, which led to a 14% increase in the export price of logs in international trade in March. It was originally predicted that the price of logs in New Zealand would continue to rise, but according to recent news, the price of Class A logs fell to 112 New Zealand dollar dollars to 115 New Zealand dollar between March and April. Allan Laurie, managing director of Laurie Forest, said that the export price of New Zealand logs must be more than 120 New Zealand dollar to be profitable. We do not recommend forestry workers to continue logging when prices are far below reasonable returns. Obviously, the current situation is unfavorable for New Zealand's timber international trade exporters.

This year, New Zealand timber merchants have clearly felt the downturn in the Chinese construction market, as even during China's seasonal consumption period, there has been no significant increase in demand for New Zealand timber. The wood that is shipped to China without a contract will have to be sold to Chinese buyers at lower prices. "Affected by pests, European cork production is significantly decreasing. For Germany, the logging volume of spruce, fir, Douglas fir, and other softwoods in 2022 was 52.8 million m3, a year-on-year decrease of 14.98%.

However, the demand for energy wood in Europe is constantly increasing, and it is expected that before resuming domestic wood production, the demand for imported wood from international trade in Europe will continue to increase. On the other hand, according to forecast reports, the supply of Pinus radiata in New Zealand's forests may continue to increase until 2025. Considering the current situation, the Forest Owners Association stated that "due to the global economic impact, the prices of international trade exports, including dairy products, have been unstable in recent years, except for logs. This may be a good time for New Zealand to expand its European market.

Overall, China's demand for New Zealand logs and wood products will continue to slow down, and without shifting to the target market, New Zealand timber merchants will not be able to profit. It is expected that New Zealand will gradually increase its international timber trade exports to Europe around May.