U.S. Hardwood Exports to China Continue Multi-Year Decline

Hardwood exports to China have continued to decline in 2026, following a trend of almost eight years. A recent 2026 hardwood market update from the USDA's Global Agricultural Information Network cited slowing economic growth in China and trade tensions for the decline.

“In particular, the slowdown in the real estate market has both directly reduced new construction and led to a negative wealth effect, where Chinese consumers (whose savings are heavily concentrated in real estate) are spending less on consumer goods,” according to the report. “This trend has affected both softwoods and hardwoods. Changing trade patterns have also had an effect.”

American hardwood remains one of the primary materials, according to GAIN. The main species of American hardwood utilized include Red Oak, Walnut, Cherry, White Oak, and Ash. These are considered premium species in China, with black walnut being one of the most popular for solid wood furniture production”, the report said. It cited “tariffs and other trade-related expenses” in the Chinese market.

“ American species appeal to middle- and upper-income consumers due to their quality, appearance, and durability. Manufacturers typically use American hardwoods for products targeting these income groups or export markets that value solid craftsmanship due to their quality, appearance, and durability.”

However, this consumer segment has been significantly affected by the economic downturn, limiting overall demand for U.S. wood in China. In the current economic climate, both businesses and consumers concentrated in real estate are spending less on consumer goods. This trend has affected both softwoods and hardwoods.

Meanwhile, as 2024 drew to a close, the forestry consulting firm Forisk reported on the multi-year China wood import trends.

“Raw material exports to China are on track for a fourth straight annual decline, with annualized 2024 volume to China down 59% from its 2018 peak. Hardwood chip volumes are down 9% from the 2018 peak, while hardwood log exports have been flat during that time. Softwood chip volumes have plummeted 98% since the 2018 peak, and softwood logs fell 72%. The drop in exports is primarily attributable to a slowing Chinese economy and the China-U.S. trade war that started in August 2018.”