UAE leads MENA markets in import of US hardwood lumber, says US Department of Agriculture

Dubai (WAM): According to the latest US Department of Agriculture statistics, UAE commands the lion's share of the total exports of U.S. hardwood lumber and veneer to the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, with a 13.5 percent share of imports valued at US$ 86.54 million in 2012. More significantly, the demand for hardwood in the Middle East is high being a major timber consuming market where wood is used in real estate projects as an alternative to other building materials that were prevalent in the past. This was highlighted at Dubai WoodShow which concludes on 10th April 2014 at Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre. Participants stressed that increasing green initiatives taken in the Gulf has led to the higher use of wood. "Progressive legislation introduced in this sector, not to mention its accumulated experience, is also giving it a shot in the arm," said Walid Farghal, Director General of Strategic Marketing '&' Exhibitions, organisers of The Dubai WoodShow. Farghal added, "We are very delighted with the strong participation of global exhibitors at Dubai Woodshow 2014, including architects, interior designers, furniture manufacturers, representatives of associations and commercial boards, as well as a large number of visitors." Dubai WoodShow, spread over an area of 13,428 sq.m., has organised a series of specialised seminars featuring renowned international experts from timber trade bodies from all over the world. UAE is a leading hub for the timber trade in Gulf region through Dubai. The legal use of Timber was a major highlight on the second day of Dubai Woodshow 2014 that seeks to promote wood solutions in the GCC, especially in the design and construction sectors. Positioned as the biggest specialised trade show, The Dubai Woodshow is an annual meeting point for producers, manufacturers, importers, exporters, dealers, suppliers and end-users and other players in the wood industry. The products showcased in the exhibition include wood, woodworking machinery, blades, knives, tools, abrasives and other related products. – Emirates News Agency, WAM