The outlook of the timber trade in China is significantly cautious mainly due to the current state of the country's  construction industry, characterized as burdened with debt and lacking a clear path forward. Representing up to 24% of GDP, the sector has contracted to 19%, impacting end-user demand for imported logs and substandard construction lumber. With declining construction activity, importers of substandard lumber are facing challenges. Lumber prices have seen a substantial drop from a peak of US$280/m³ in April 2022 to a stable US$160/m³ a year later. Seaports and distribution yards in ...