What is Macro Pulse?

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
Macro Pulse's timely yet in-depth coverage.


Wednesday, August 9, 2017

June 2017 International Trade (Softwood Lumber)

Click image for larger view 
Click image for larger view
Softwood lumber exports increased (23 MMBF or +17.7%) in June, while imports fell (73 MMBF or -5.9%). Exports were 11 MMBF (+7.8%) above year-earlier levels; imports were 245 MMBF (-17.3%) lower. As a result, the year-over-year (YoY) net export deficit was 259 MMBF (-20.1%) smaller. Moreover, the average net export deficit for the 12 months ending June 2017 was 2.5% smaller than the average of the same months a year earlier (the “YoY MA(12) % Chng” series shown in the graph above). 
Click image for larger view
Asia (especially China: 18.5%) and North America (of which Canada: 18.2%; Mexico: 17.6%) were the primary destinations for U.S. softwood lumber exports in June. Year-to-date (YTD) exports to China were +10.0% relative to the same months in 2016. Meanwhile, Canada was the source of most (94.1%) of softwood lumber imports into the United States. Interestingly, imports from Canada are 14.4% lower YTD than the same months in 2016. Overall, YTD exports were up 1.7% compared to 2016, while imports were down 11.8%. 
Click image for larger view 
Click image for larger view
U.S. softwood lumber export activity through Eastern customs region represented the largest proportion in June (34.7% of the U.S. total), followed by the West Coast (31.3%) and the Gulf (28.4%) regions. However, Seattle maintained a small lead (20.3% of the U.S. total) over Mobile (19.0%) as the single most-active district. At the same time, Great Lakes customs region handled 65.4% of softwood lumber imports -- most notably the Duluth, MN district (30.5%) -- coming into the United States. 
Click image for larger view 
Click image for larger view
Southern yellow pine comprised 36.1% of all softwood lumber exports in June, followed by treated lumber (13.7%) and Douglas-fir (13.7%). Southern pine exports were up 4.2% YTD relative to 2016, while treated: +36.0%; Doug-fir: +3.5%.
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.

No comments:

Post a Comment

Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.