European sawn timber markets entered 2026 with cautious sentiment, as weak construction demand and broader economic pressures continued to weigh on activity.
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According to Fastmarkets, prices across key European markets remained largely stable in January, although some individual product categories saw minor movements. In Germany, spruce 44–50×150mm increased by 3.17%, while most other grades remained unchanged. The UK market showed mixed results, with spruce 44–50×150mm declining by 1.64% while pine grades posted modest gains. France and the Benelux region were largely flat, with only slight changes in specific spruce grades.
Industry participants said the market remains in a holding pattern, with buyers managing inventories cautiously following volatile demand in recent years.
The sector continues to face structural challenges, particularly the slowdown in European construction caused by higher financing costs, weaker consumer confidence and reduced commercial building activity. While the sharp demand collapse seen in 2022–23 has eased, a strong recovery has yet to materialise.
Despite the subdued outlook, some market players expect conditions to stabilise by the end of the first quarter of 2026, depending on broader economic developments.
Industry discussions at the WFFC 2026 workshop suggested that housing remains the main constraint on demand, while renovation, infrastructure and engineered wood products such as CLT and glulam are providing more stable growth opportunities.
Source: www.globalwood.org
