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Macro Pulse highlights recent activity and events expected to affect the U.S. economy over the next 24 months. While the review is of the entire U.S. economy its particular focus is on developments affecting the Forest Products industry. Everyone with a stake in any level of the sector can benefit from
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Monday, February 8, 2016

December 2015 International Trade (Softwood Lumber)

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Softwood lumber exports inched up (+1 MMBF or 0.4%) in December while imports fell by 148 MMBF (-11.1%). Exports were 9 MMBF (7.5%) above year-earlier levels; imports were 130 MMBF (12.3%) higher. The year-over-year (YoY) net export deficit was 121 MMBF (12.9%) larger. 
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North America was the primary destination for U.S. softwood lumber exports in December (41.1%, of which Canada: 20.9%; Mexico: 20.1%). Asia (especially China: 20.5%) placed a close second, with 39.2%. Year-to-date (YTD) exports to China were down 26.3% relative to the same months in 2014. Meanwhile, Canada was the source of nearly all (96.1%) softwood lumber imports into the United States. Overall, YTD exports were down 10.2% compared to 2014, while imports were up 10.1%. 
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U.S. softwood lumber export activity through West Coast customs districts bounced back in relation to the other districts during December (to 42.4% of the U.S. total, from 33.3% in October); Seattle maintained its dominance as the most active export district (22.6% of the U.S. total), dominating second-place Mobile, AL (10.6%). At the same time, Great Lakes customs districts handled 68.7% of the softwood lumber imports (especially Duluth, MN with 30.4%) coming into the United States. 
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Southern yellow pine comprised 25.3% of all softwood lumber exports in December, followed by Douglas-fir with 21.3%. Southern pine exports were up 9.4% YTD relative to 2014, while Douglas-fir exports were down 23.0%.
The foregoing comments represent the general economic views and analysis of Delphi Advisors, and are provided solely for the purpose of information, instruction and discourse. They do not constitute a solicitation or recommendation regarding any investment.

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