CHILE –  Chile’s plywood export industry reported a 2.6% year-on-year increase in shipments during the first four months of 2025 (4M-2025), reaching a total of USD 131.4 million, according to customs data.

The United States remained Chile’s top export destination, maintaining a steady demand with purchases of USD 70.96 million, a slight 0.5% increase compared to the same period in 2024. Significant gains were also recorded in other European markets, including the Netherlands (+37.1%), the UK (+31.4%), and Italy (+26.7%). These results helped offset steep declines in other key destinations such as Mexico (-33.5%), France (-20.5%), and New Zealand (-15.8%).

Exports to other countries, which includes smaller or emerging markets, rose sharply by 36.4%, indicating broader diversification of Chile’s plywood exports.

In terms of exporters, Paneles Arauco remained the dominant player with USD 63.7 million in shipments, although that represented a slight decrease of -1.6% year-on-year. CMPC Maderas increased its exports by 17%, totaling USD 40.7 million, while Eagon Lautaro posted an impressive 20% growth, reaching USD 15.6 million. Meanwhile, Tulsa saw a small decline of -1.4%.

Despite the mixed performance across markets, the overall growth highlights the sector’s resilience in a year marked by global economic uncertainty and changing trade dynamics.