China’s hardwood demand declined in 2025, driven by slower economic growth and a prolonged real estate downturn that reduced construction activity and consumer spending. U.S. hardwoods, viewed as premium products, faced declining demand as middle- and upper-income consumers cut spending and manufacturers shifted to lower-cost domestic and third-country alternatives. Policy disruptions, including China’s temporary import ban on U.S.
logs, further reduced U.S. market share. Despite these challenges, U.S. hardwoods remain competitive for consumers and firms prioritizing quality, durability, and sustainability.
The report, published on April 23, 2026, by the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service (GAIN report CH2026-0055), provides an update on China’s hardwood market.