Alberta forest shipments show slight improvement in third quarter
Shipment values up 4.4% from Q2-2009, the first increase in 5 quarters, though still down 36% compared to same period last year
Edmonton, January 6, 2010 – Creating a bright spot in a dismal year; the combined value of Alberta forest products shipments in the third quarter of 2009 rose 4.4% over values in the second quarter, reflecting a modest, seasonal improvement in markets for building products.
Comparing 2009 results to 2008 results, the overall value of Alberta forest products shipped to market declined. The AFPA’s lumber sector saw a 25% decrease in value on 3.7% less shipped; panelboard saw a 35% value decline on 40% less shipped; and the pulp and paper sector showed a 41% decrease in value on 23% less production.
“As Alberta’s forest industry struggles to overcome the effects of the economic slump of 2009, increased U.S. housing starts point to the on-set of improved economic conditions,” said Brady Whittaker, AFPA President and CEO. “Alberta forest products producers have led the nation in innovation and investment and are well-positioned to take advantage of market recovery.”
The Alberta Forest Products Association is a private, non-profit industry organization, representing lumber, panelboard, pulp and paper, and secondary manufacturing wood products companies operating in Alberta. The forest products industry is Alberta’s third largest manufacturing industry and the second largest manufacturing export industry. AFPA member companies are active participants in sustainability advancements that benefit the industry, our environment and society.
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Backgrounder: AFPA Quarterly Statistics attached
For more information, please contact:
Brady Whittaker, President and CEO
p) 780.452.2841 Ext. 231
c) 780.916.5212