Germany's timber market continues to experience supply constraints, with rising pallet wood prices reflecting sustained pressure across the sector.
Spruce remains scarce, with demand exceeding supply despite sluggish sawn timber sales. Prices for mixed-grade spruce logs are currently between €135 and €140 per cubic metre. Pine is increasingly being used as an alternative, with prices ranging from €95 to €100 per cubic metre.
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The most notable shift is in pallet wood, where strong demand for industrial timber has driven prices up to between €40 and just under €50 per cubic metre. Other industrial grades, including INK and OSB wood, are also seeing upward price movements, highlighting ongoing supply tightness.
In contrast, the hardwood segment is more stable. Beechwood remains widely available, with domestic inventories well-stocked and export demand under pressure due to stricter hygiene regulations and weaker international markets. Reduced logging activity has helped prevent oversupply.
Oak has performed relatively well, particularly in higher-quality grades, while mid-range products remain stable at last year's levels.
Looking ahead, developments in energy markets are expected to impact the firewood segment, with higher prices and an earlier start to the next season anticipated.
For the European furniture and interiors industry, rising softwood costs could place additional pressure on production margins and supply chains.
Source: www.globalwood.org
