African timber supply: strong demand boosts exports

Although African timber exports face many challenges, they are still supported by strong demand from the European Union and the United States. Between January and August 2021, Cameroon’s sawn timber exports are roughly the same as in 2020. In contrast, sawn timber exports from Congolese shippers increased slightly in 2021 (a 5% year-on-year increase), but fell by 15% compared to 2019.

　　 From January to August 2021, Cameroon, Congo and Gabon exported more sawn timber to the EU than in 2020 (Cameroon 4%, Congo 30%, Gabon 30%). Compared with the same period in 2019, shipments from Cameroon declined slightly, while shipments from Congo and Gabon returned to 2019 levels.