Australia’s forestry and wood products sector is calling for tougher government intervention to address concerns surrounding Russian timber entering the domestic market through intermediary nations.
The Australian Forest Products Association (AFPA) has urged the Federal Government to strengthen existing trade measures. The industry body argues that current sanctions are not adequately preventing timber sourced from Russia from reaching Australia through third-country supply chains.
According to AFPA, increasing quantities of timber products are believed to be moving through countries such as China before being imported into Australia. These materials are subsequently used across residential housing and construction projects.
The issue has become a growing concern for local manufacturers. Industry representatives believe stronger enforcement measures are required to safeguard domestic businesses and maintain confidence in Australia’s timber supply chain.
AFPA Acting Chief Executive Officer Richard Hyett said available evidence indicates Russian-origin timber continues to enter the Australian market despite sanctions already being in place.
He stated that industry estimates suggest as much as 100,000 cubic metres of imported timber entering Australia annually may contain Russian material. Based on current construction volumes, this could result in approximately 15,000 newly built homes each year incorporating timber linked to Russian supply sources.
The association recently presented its concerns through a submission to a Senate inquiry. Several policy recommendations were outlined. These measures are intended to strengthen compliance, improve supply chain transparency and support local producers.
One recommendation involves extending the existing 35 per cent tariff currently applied to Russian products. AFPA has proposed that the tariff should cover all products containing Russian-origin materials, regardless of the country from which they are imported.
Country of Origin labelling requirements have also been recommended. Such measures would provide greater transparency for businesses and consumers purchasing timber products. Improved traceability could help identify the true source of imported materials.
In addition, anti-dumping investigations have been proposed. These investigations would examine whether imported products containing Russian timber are being sold into the Australian market at unfairly low prices.
Greater border compliance activity has also been requested. Increased monitoring and inspection processes would help identify timber products that may have been rerouted through third countries before reaching Australian ports.
Industry leaders argue that Australia currently faces a different situation compared with several major international trading partners. The European Union and the United States have implemented broader measures aimed at addressing concerns over Russian timber supply chains.
According to AFPA, Australia has become an attractive destination for products that have been redirected through intermediary markets. This is because only limited action has been taken to address the issue of rerouted timber imports.
The association believes this situation places additional pressure on local timber manufacturers. Domestic businesses are competing against imported products that are often sold below prevailing market prices.
Market share has been affected in several segments of the industry. Investment decisions can also be influenced when manufacturers face sustained pricing pressure from imported alternatives.
The timber manufacturing sector remains a significant contributor to regional economies throughout Australia. Thousands of jobs are supported by forestry operations, wood processing facilities and associated supply chains.
Industry stakeholders argue that maintaining fair competition is essential for future growth. Stable market conditions encourage investment, innovation and long-term business planning.
Concerns have also been raised about the broader economic implications of continued imports containing Russian material. Local companies may face increased challenges when competing against products benefiting from lower production costs and complex international trade routes.
AFPA maintains that stronger sanctions would deliver multiple benefits. Domestic manufacturers would receive greater support. Supply chain integrity would be strengthened. International commitments would also be reinforced.
The organisation believes enhanced enforcement measures could help establish a more level commercial environment for Australian producers. Fair competition is viewed as a critical requirement for the continued development of the forestry industry Australia-wide.
As discussions continue within government and parliamentary channels, the timber sector will be closely monitoring potential policy developments. Industry participants are seeking clear regulatory frameworks that improve transparency and ensure compliance across international timber supply chains.
The outcome of these discussions could have important implications for the future competitiveness of Australia’s forestry and wood products market. It is expected that the issue will remain a key focus for manufacturers, policymakers and construction sector stakeholders in the months ahead.
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