In July, the Southern Forest Products Association (SFPA) and APA, The Engineered Wood Association, partnered to conduct a virtual technical seminar for lumber traders and construction professionals in Guatemala. Guatemala shows a lot of promise for the U.S. softwood industry, as the country lacks sawmilling technology and is heavily reliant on imported wood products. This existing demand for imports is compounded by the 1.5 million unit housing shortage that the country is experiencing.
A roster of industry experts spoke on topics addressing sustainability, lumber size, and grade considerations, correct specification of preservatively-treated lumber, structural panel and engineered wood products from the U.S., and best construction practices in high wind zones.
The seminar reached 15 attendees, a good-sized audience considering the small Guatemalan market. Notably, attendees came away from the seminar with more knowledge on specifying U.S. softwoods, a barrier that had previously discouraged them from using U.S. softwood products. As a direct result of July’s seminar, most attendees are more likely to specify U.S. softwood products.
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The full report, survey responses, and a list of attendee contacts are available to SFPA Members in Members Only.
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