China’s imports of softwood lumber contracted by 13% in May 2026, confirming continued weakness in one of the world’s most important wood import markets. For professionals in the wood industry, the decline is relevant because China remains a key destination for softwood lumber, sawn timber, logs, panels, furniture components and other forest products. According to recent market data, the decline in May softwood lumber imports was accompanied by only a modest increase in average import prices. This suggests that the market is still affected more by weak demand than by strong price recovery. For exporters, sawmills and timber traders, the data points to a cautious purchasing environment, where Chinese buyers remain selective and price-sensitive.

The contraction follows a difficult period for China’s wood market. In 2025, China’s total lumber imports decreased, while softwood lumber imports also fell compared with 2024. The slowdown has been linked mainly to weaker construction activity, pressure in the real estate sector and slower demand from downstream industries such as packaging, furniture and wood-based panels. Russia remains the dominant supplier of softwood lumber to China, supported by geographic proximity, large production capacity and cost advantages. However, supplier dynamics are changing. Canada, Belarus, Finland and other exporters continue to compete for market share, while European suppliers face a more selective and price-driven Chinese market. For many exporting countries, the fall in Chinese demand increases the need to diversify sales channels and monitor alternative markets.

For the wider timber and lumber industry, the 13% decline in May is an important signal. China is still a major buyer, but it is no longer absorbing softwood lumber at the same pace seen during stronger construction cycles. This can influence global lumber prices, shipping flows, sawmill production planning and inventory levels across exporting regions. The impact is also visible in market strategy. Sawmills and traders selling into China should closely monitor monthly import volumes, average CIF prices, supplier shares, exchange rates, logistics costs and construction indicators. Companies should also follow policy changes, customs data and broader trends in Chinese demand for timber, lumber and wood products.

Although the short-term outlook remains cautious, China will continue to be a central market for global wood trade. The key question is whether demand stabilizes in the second half of 2026 or whether weak construction and slower industrial activity continue to limit import growth. For wood industry professionals, updated data and market intelligence are essential for planning purchasing, exports, pricing and production.

WoodBusinessPortal.com supports professionals from the wood industry with statistics, prices, import and export data, predictions and trend analysis for softwood lumber, timber, sawnwood, panels, pallets, pellets, furniture components and other forest products. In a volatile market, access to updated information can help companies reduce risk, compare markets and identify new opportunities.

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Sources:
1. Lesprom Network – “Imports of softwood lumber to China contract 13% in May”
2. USDA Foreign Agricultural Service – “China: Solid Wood Annual 2025”
3. Global Wood Markets Info – “China cuts softwood lumber imports sharply in first four months of 2026”
4. Global Wood Markets Info – “China’s construction slump hits softwood lumber imports”
5. FAO – Forest Products Statistics