world news - 19.11.2004

Timber Price Indices in UK

Coniferous standing sales prices in Great Britain were 14.1 per cent higher in real terms in the year to September 2004, compared with the previous year. The increase contrasts with the recent downward path in coniferous standing sales prices, according to the latest figures for the Coniferous Standing Sales Price Index, and the Softwood Sawlog Price Index, published today by the Forestry Commission.

Other findings of the report are:

— The average price per cubic metre overbark standing was 6.19 pounds in nominal terms (Ј5.10 in 1996 prices) in the year to September 2004.

— The Softwood Sawlog Price Index was 0.1 per cent lower in real terms in the year to September 2004, compared with the previous year.

The Standing Sales Price Index measures the average price received per cubic metre of standing sales timber from Forestry Commission sales. The Index is expressed in real terms (1996 prices), and is adjusted for timber size mix using Laspeyres' method.

The Softwood Sawlog Price Index measures the average price received per cubic metre of sawlogs from Forestry Commission sales. The Index is expressed in real terms (1996 prices).

For tables and charts, please go to Timber Price Indices (year to Sept 2004) (Forestry Commission)

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