Despite the continuing flat economic curve, the positive mood in the (wood) construction industry seems to be holding up. At the same time, the sawmill industry is complaining about below-average stock levels.

According to information from the Forestry Department of LK Austria, most companies have already suspended one shift. “Based on an already lower supply during the summer months, demand for sawlogs remains extremely brisk,” they report. The leading spruce-fir range (classes A, B, C 2b) currently fetches an average of €122.69 per cubic meter free at the roadside, two euros more than in the previous month and only slightly below the record price from early summer 2022. In Salzburg, the previous record price has now been exceeded. Pine (grades A, B, C 2a+) also continues to rise and is currently selling for an average of just under €85. Lower Austria's sawmills pay the most (up to €95). Demand for larch also remains particularly strong and can usually no longer be met.

According to forestry experts, there is currently sufficient freight capacity available. “Assortments provided are being transported away without delay,” they announced this week. This also applies to poorer qualities. The situation is similar for hardwood. According to market experts, oak and ash in all grades are enjoying particularly brisk demand at the start of the season: "The price level for good grades is roughly the same as last year, while ash has risen slightly in price.

Regional differences in pulpwood
The industrial roundwood market must currently be viewed in a differentiated manner. While the situation in Lower Austria is tense due to full warehouses and low demand, market analysts in Styria are observing a slight upturn in demand. In all other federal states, however, supply and demand are balanced. Despite country-specific differences in development, the persistently low prices are not moving up or down for the time being. Fiber wood (spruce/fir) is being purchased at a price range of 28 to 46 euros per solid cubic meter.

There are cautious signs of recovery on the energy wood market. “Stocks at heating plants are declining,” according to reports. In some places, rising demand is now also being observed outside of existing contracts. However, sales of lower qualities remain challenging. With prices of €60 per cubic meter for softwood in Lower Austria and Styria and maximum prices of €125 in Tyrol, the first minimal price increases are being documented in some places. The same applies to hardwood, which is changing hands for an average of €110.

Meanwhile, energy wood is experiencing a slight price correction. On average, the price per ton is €81.20, with a wide range from €57 in the south to €120 in the west. According to LK, the federal average price for wood chips of average quality has once again exceeded the €100 mark. In Upper Austria, it can be sold ex-works for up to €120 per ton, and in Lower Austria for up to €115.


Source: bauernzeitung.at