New Zealand log prices improve, but contractors face fuel and freight pressure
New Zealand’s forestry contractors’ association reports stronger export log prices and harvesting activity, while warning that higher diesel and freight costs continue to squeeze contractor profitability.
In its 15 October market update, the Forest Industry Contractors Association says export log prices improved during October, supported by a weaker New Zealand dollar and demand through Chinese ports. It also reports national harvesting volumes running ahead of the previous year.
The association describes domestic timber demand as steady, with improved construction activity supporting local processors. However, it says contractors still face higher fuel, labour and compliance costs, alongside elevated freight charges.
FICA sees a more encouraging market heading into the New Zealand summer, but warns that uncertainty over Chinese construction demand remains. These are the trade body’s qualitative market observations: the update does not publish a numerical price benchmark, and higher export log prices should not be read as a confirmed increase in pallet-timber prices.
Source attribution
- Source organisation
- Forest Industry Contractors Association
- Original date
- 15 Oct 2026
- Published by us
- 19 Oct 2026
Pallet News publishes a short original summary only. Copyright in the original update remains with the publishing organisation.
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