The total exports of US softwood lumber to the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region plunged to $20 million in 2015, down 40 per cent over the previous year, said a report.

However, markets around the globe continue to demand strong, high-quality lumber, particularly Southern Yellow Pine from the US, which suits a wide variety of applications, according to American Softwoods (Amso), the promotional partnership formed by three major US softwood trade associations.

Global exports of Southern Yellow Pine from the US reached a record $375 million in 2015, up seven per cent over the same period last year, stated the Amso report.

The wood is favourite among interior decorators and designers worldwide have discovered the appeal of using these wood indoors.

Southern Yellow Pine patterns feature a distinctive grain and excellent finishing properties that make it the ideal choice for flooring, panelling and ceilings. Accents such as wainscoting added to bathrooms and kitchens add texture and warmth to a space, said the report.

The top three destinations for Southern Yellow Pine exports remain unchanged from the previous year with Mexico ($163 million) up two per cent; China ($130 million) down 26 per cent; and the Dominican Republic ($48 million) up 17 per cent.

According to Amso, the Mena remains a key destination for American softwoods amidst the increasing demand from the region’s booming construction and housing markets.

Charles Trevor, the consultant to American Softwoods, said: "In the past five years, global exports of Southern Yellow Pine have more than doubled. The latest design values have confirmed that Southern Yellow Pine remains comparable with other American softwood species used for structural applications. Further, its density remains unmatched, providing superior fastener-holding ability."

"As is the case across the globe, Southern Yellow Pine is the predominant species accounting for almost 80 per cent of sales throughout the Mena region," stated Trevor.

"The leading market is Egypt, where sales have held up relatively well despite restrictions on the availability of foreign exchange, followed by the UAE," he added.-TradeArabia News Service