OREANDA-NEWS. January 29, 2010. In December, Russian prices for panel products decreased by 1.5% on the average, as reported by Lesprom Network’s Analytic Department.

Average price of MDF fell by 3%, of OSB-3 – by 2%, of laminated wood particleboard – by 2%, of wood fiberboard – by 3%, and of wood particleboard (first grade) – by 0.6%. Increase in plywood prices amounted to 1.3%.

There were no considerable fluctuations on the wood particleboard market. Companies noted, however, that the share of laminated products decreased somehow. In January it is expected that a number of producers could raise their prices, but demand in the first month of 2010 will be low.

Demand for laminated wood particleboard has also been decreasing. Traders granted considerable discounts for products of many enterprises.

Demand for plywood was steady in December. In some regions, several plywood grades were even undersupplied.

Demand for MDF board decreased, despite this, price policy of the majority of MDF producers has not yet changed.

Demand for OSB declined, according to many traders, this was due to decreased volume of construction and finishing works, many projects were cancelled totally.

Average price of wood fiberboard in December decreased, demand for this product also fell.

Analytic Department of Lesprom Network specializes in forest industry market research. The department gathers statistic data on timber processing and pulp & paper companies. Among Lesprom Network clients are largest Russian and foreign timber industry and investment companies.