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.


Monday, October 17, 2016

August 2016 International Trade (Softwood Lumber)

Click image for larger view 
Click image for larger view
Softwood lumber exports increased (+6 MMBF or 5.0%) in August, while imports declined (-16 MMBF or 1.2%). Exports were 13 MMBF (10.3%) above year-earlier levels; imports were 175 MMBF (14.6%) higher. As a result, the year-over-year (YoY) net export deficit was 361 MMBF (40.1%) larger. The average net export deficit for the 12 months ending August 2016 was 32.9% higher 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
North America was the primary destination for U.S. softwood lumber exports in August (48.7%, of which Mexico: 26.3%; Canada: 22.4%). Asia (especially China: 18.4%) ranked second, with 34.3%. Year-to-date (YTD) exports to China were up 15.8% relative to the same months in 2015. Meanwhile, Canada was the source of nearly all (95.4%) softwood lumber imports into the United States. Overall, YTD exports were up 1.3% compared to 2015, while imports were up 34.5%. 
Click image for larger view 
Click image for larger view
U.S. softwood lumber export activity through West Coast customs districts represented the largest proportion in August (39.0% of the U.S. total), although the Eastern and Gulf districts were not far behind (28.4% and 24.7%, respectively); Seattle maintained its dominance as the most active export district (25.0% of the U.S. total). At the same time, Great Lakes customs districts handled 66.0% of the softwood lumber imports -- most notably Duluth, MN (30.8%) -- coming into the United States. 
Click image for larger view 
Click image for larger view
Southern yellow pine comprised 27.7% of all softwood lumber exports in August, followed by Douglas-fir with 14.1%. Southern pine exports were up 13.0% YTD relative to 2015, while Doug-fir exports were down 17.5%.
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.