COLOMBIA – In the first five months of 2024 (5M-2024), Colombian imports of particleboard (PB/MDP) experienced a relevant growth of 15.1%, rising from USD 61.6 million in 5M-2023 to USD 70.9 million.

Ecuador was again the leading supplier country, despite a 5.1% reduction in its export volume compared to the previous year. Ecuador’s PB/MDP exports to Colombia in 5M-2024 totaled USD 44.4 million, accounting for 62.7% of the total PB/MDP imports in the period, a considerable decrease compared to 76.1% in 5M-2023 (USD 46.88 million).

Brazil emerged as a significant player in the Colombian market, overtaking Chile to become the second-largest supplier of PB/MDP to Colombia. Brazilian exports surged by an impressive 118.7%, reaching USD 12.75 million. Chile followed with USD 7.44 million in exports, while Spain and Thailand contributed USD 3.11 million and USD 2.69 million, respectively. This shift in supply dynamics highlights the growing influence of Brazilian suppliers in Colombia’s particleboard market.

Among Colombian importers, Madecentro led the field with USD 37.93 million in imports in 5M-2024, though this figure represented a 9.5% decline from USD 41.92 million in 5M-2023. Madecentro’s share of the total PB/MDP imports in the period was 53.5%, indicating its continued dominance despite the decrease.

Dexco Colombia (Duratex) saw substantial growth, and was the second-largest importer with USD 6.20 million, reflecting a remarkable 112.3% increase from the previous year. Maderkit , one of the countries largest furniture manufacturers followed, importing USD 5.13 million worth of particleboard.