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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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Thursday, March 16, 2017

January 2017 International Trade (Softwood Lumber)

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Softwood lumber exports increased (3 MMBF or +2.1%) in January, while imports rose (46 MMBF or +3.6%). Exports were 5 MMBF (+3.7%) above year-earlier levels; imports were 52 MMBF (+4.2%) higher. As a result, the year-over-year (YoY) net export deficit was 48 MMBF (+4.2%) larger. The average net export deficit for the 12 months ending January 2017 was 23.7% higher than the average of the same months a year earlier (the “YoY MA(12) % Chng” series shown in the graph above). 
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North America was the primary destination for U.S. softwood lumber exports in January (40.7%, of which Canada: 20.8%; Mexico: 20.0%). Asia (especially China: 19.9%) ranked second, with 36.7%. Year-to-date (YTD) exports to China were up 7.8% relative to the same months in 2016. Meanwhile, Canada was the source of nearly all (93.1%) softwood lumber imports into the United States; Imports from Canada are 1.9% higher YTD than the same months in 2016. Overall, YTD exports were up 3.7% compared to 2016, while imports were up 4.2%. 
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U.S. softwood lumber export activity through East Coast customs districts represented the largest proportion in January (35.5% of the U.S. total), the West Coast and Gulf districts lagged (30.8% and 26.0%, respectively); Seattle maintained a slim lead as the most active export district (18.0% of the U.S. total). At the same time, Great Lakes customs districts handled 62.9% of softwood lumber imports -- most notably Duluth, MN (27.3%) -- coming into the United States. 
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Southern yellow pine comprised 30.9% of all softwood lumber exports in January, followed by treated lumber (15.7%) and Douglas-fir (11.4%). Southern pine exports were up 1.8% YTD relative to 2016, while Doug-fir exports were down 32.6%.
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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