Sawmills across Germany and Austria are adopting an increasingly cautious operating strategy as they enter the second half of 2026. Weak construction activity, subdued demand for sawn timber and elevated production costs continue to weigh on profitability, prompting many producers to focus on preserving liquidity rather than maximising output.

According to market contacts interviewed by Global Wood Markets Info, sentiment has weakened noticeably since the beginning of the year. While order books have stabilised compared with the first quarter, most customers continue buying only for immediate needs, limiting visibility beyond the coming weeks and leaving little incentive for mills to rebuild inventories.