High demand, favorable harvesting conditions, and the current price level have encouraged intensive logging activities. Interestingly, most industry experts view this as an early harvesting measure rather than excessive logging. As a result, it is unlikely that there will be a supply surplus in March or April. This strong flow of timber from small private forests, which had been absent for several years, was already observed again last year. At present, there are hardly any stockpiles in forests – everything is being immediately transported out of the forest.
Log wood prices up to +2 €/m³
The steady demand for sawable roundwood led to further price increases in February. Compared to the previous month, prices rose by 1.5 €/m³ in Austria and Baden-Württemberg, while Bavaria saw an increase of 2 €/m³. The relatively uniform price range across this large region stands at 108 to 114 €/m³ (spruce/fir, grade B, 2b; roadside). This represents a 6 to 9% increase compared to the same month last year. Prices are now just 8 to 9 €/m³below the all-time highs recorded in 2022.
The Bavarian roundwood market continues to experience high demand. Nationwide, supply remains limited, influenced by weather-related damage and a deliberate reduction in harvesting volumes after several years of intensive logging – such as in neighboring Thuringia. In Baden-Württemberg, the timber market remains stable. Coniferous roundwood is in high demand, is being quickly transported away, and is seeing rising but regionally differentiated prices.
In Austria, buyers also report that there is "enough wood" available. However, from northern to southern Austria, the lack of sufficient wagon availability is being cited as a challenge for both sawmills and forest owners.
