Alberta Forest Product Companies Report Strongest Quarter Since 2010
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Values of pulp and paper, lumber, and panelboard manufactured by Alberta Forest Products Association (AFPA) member companies in Canada totaled approximately $582 million for the second quarter of 2012, representing the strongest quarter since 2010. The value of production was up $31 million from the same period last year and increased roughly $37 million from the first quarter of 2012.
"I am really encouraged by the positive growth that our industry has seen," said AFPA President and CEO Brady Whittaker. "The trend in lumber and panel pricing is optimistic. A stronger industry has a noticeable impact on the communities that our members operate in."
Whittaker also noted that economic uncertainty in Europe and low demand in the Asian pulp market have affected global pulp prices. "While prices remain above their 10-year average, we have seen declines in the pulp market over the last several quarters. We are hopeful that greater certainty in the global economy will reverse this trend soon."
AFPA members are significant social and economic contributors to more than 50 communities around the province. The industry supports local initiatives, creates jobs, and fosters economic diversity. Continued innovation through increased energy and water efficiency, progressive forest management practices, and market diversification is being undertaken to ensure a prosperous future for Alberta's forest products industry, the association notes.
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