ISSUE 4: OVERVIEW OF THE WOOD PRODUCTS TRADE BETWEEN CHINA AND RUSSIA
View PublicationChina’s flourishing economy, coupled with policy constraints limiting domestic forest production, has resulted in skyrocketing forest product imports over the last several years. Of all countries exporting to China, Russia is now the top timber product supplier by volume, and to a lesser degree, by value. Trade increased from 0.5 million cubic meters (m3) to over 20 million m3 in in just 10 years (19962005). China’s growing import demand represents both an important opportunity for those who can take advantage of this growing market, but also a threat for the environment
and local economies if forest harvesting and processing systems do not develop sustainably and equitably for all stakeholders. Analyses of this trade its economic, social and ecological nature and future trade trends will help to raise an understanding of the issues and help to ensure long-term sustainable and harmonious development and trade between Russia and China.