Global softwood markets are entering a period characterized by constrained supply, with projections indicating that softwood roundwood availability will increase by approximately 0.5% annually until 2035. This growth rate is significantly lower than the anticipated rise in demand across various sectors, including construction timber, packaging materials, and biomass.
Since 2000, softwood roundwood supply has remained largely stagnant, despite an overall increase in total roundwood production. This historical trend, combined with future forecasts, suggests a growing imbalance between supply and demand.
For freight forwarders and shippers, this outlook implies potential challenges in sourcing softwood products, which could lead to increased material costs and longer lead times. The imbalance may also drive up freight rates for timber and related goods as competition for available supply intensifies. Forwarders should advise clients to plan for potential price volatility and explore alternative sourcing strategies or inventory management adjustments to mitigate risks.