Global sawlog prices close to five-year low because of weak lumber markets in the 2Q/09, reports Wood Resource Quarterly

Prices for softwood lumber have fallen in most markets worldwide the past year, including in Europe, North America and Japan, reports the Wood Resource Quarterly. The weak lumber markets have pushed sawlog prices close to a five-year lowSeattle, USA. The Global Sawlog Price Index (GSPI) in the 2Q/09, increased for the first time since late 2007, reaching $68.87/m3. The Index, which is based on conifer sawlog prices in 19 key regions worldwide from 1995 to present, was still close to its lowest level in five years. Prices were slightly higher in most world regions this quarter mainly because