AHEC’s participation at YAF revealed an increasing interest in American hardwoods in the country, particularly for the production of thermally-modified hardwoods. At present, there are at least four, if not more, producers of thermally-modified hardwoods in Turkey. One company, which has been producing thermally-modified hardwoods for quite a few years, bases around 85 percent of its significant production on ash (mainly American, but also European) and is, almost certainly, the largest producer of thermally-modified hardwoods in the world. In contrast, another company, which has been producing thermally-modified hardwoods for only a year or so, is more focused on using European softwoods and African hardwoods in addition to some American ash to produce thermally-modified timber.
“Our participation at YAF 2015 allowed us the opportunity to connect with two relatively new producers of thermally-modified timber in Turkey. In addition to the established producers, who are currently sourcing American hardwoods for their production, they represent an increased opportunity for American hardwoods in Turkey,” said Roderick Wiles, AHEC Director for Africa, Middle East, South Asia and Oceania. “Particularly encouraging is the fact that all of the producers of thermally-modified timbers in Turkey are very confident about the global potential for this material and are continuing to invest in increasing their production capacity. Not only have they achieved success in selling their products both in Turkey and abroad, but they are also keen to pilot new species including American tulipwood and red oak.”
The market for wood products in Turkey has developed considerably in recent years, as both the country’s construction and furniture sectors have witnessed significant growth. Turkey is clearly established as a major wood processing hub with a sizeable wood-based panel industry, significant veneer slicing capacity, as well as finished furniture production. Currently, around 150,000 people are employed in the sector, which comprises about 31,000 companies across the country, with major centers located in Istanbul, Ankara, Bursa-Inegol, Kayseri and Izmir. Looking ahead, the government has outlined an aggressive growth strategy with a target for Turkish furniture production to reach USD 25 billion and for exports to reach USD 10 billion by 2023.
“Thermal modification represents the next great potential for American hardwood producers, especially since there are various species that can be successfully treated such as ash, soft maple, tulipwood, red oak, yellow birch and hickory. Not only does thermal modification improve the performance and durability of hardwoods thereby allowing certain timbers to be used externally with no additional protection, but the increase in dimensional stability and decay resistance significantly extends the service life, and has the potential to reduce the maintenance needs of products made from thermally-modified hardwoods. It is truly encouraging to witness the acceptance of thermal modification in Turkey and with the current vogue for timber cladding and decking, as well as exterior timber structures and street furniture, we hope to see American hardwoods featured in an even wider range of applications in Turkey in the near future,” concluded Wiles.
About AHEC:
The American Hardwood Export Council (AHEC) is the leading international trade association for the U.S. hardwood industry, representing the committed exporters among U.S. hardwood companies and all the major U.S. hardwood production trade associations. AHEC runs a worldwide programme to promote American hardwoods in over 50 export markets, concentrating on providing architects, specifiers, designers and end-users with technical information on the range of species, products and sources of supply. In addition, AHEC also produces a full range of technical publications. For more information, please visit: www.americanhardwood.org
