The unification of East and West Germany has increased investment in the repair and remodeling sector. This has resulted in strong demand for wood products such as construction lumber, windows and doors. Although clear solid wood is preferred, glued and finger-jointed products are becoming increasingly accepted due to decline in the quality of lumber imported from both North America and Northern Europe. Preferred North American species are hemlock, Douglas-fir, lodgepole pine, spruce and oak. The increased activity in the renovation sector has resulted in a higher frequency of special orders and demand for custom-cut components.
Opportunities also exist for hardwood lumber and components for furniture and flooring.
Italy Imports of semi-finished and customized wood products to Italy are expected to increase, particularly for use in windows and furniture. Italy is one of the largest producers of furniture in the world. Opportunities exist for lumber and components of red oak, red alder, yellow-poplar. However, there is an increased interest in alternative species since the wood quality of Douglas-fir has declined and the price has increased in recent years. Two alternative species of interest are hemlock and red cedar.