US Hardwood Exports to India Reach $6.944M in H1 2026

American Hardwood Exports to India Total $6.944M

Exports of US hardwood lumber and veneer to India reached $6.944 million in the first half of 2026, according to the American Hardwood Export Council (AHEC). Data from the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) shows hardwood lumber exports accounted for $6.428 million, with veneer exports at $516,000.

AHEC plans to participate in MumbaiWood, held at the Bombay Exhibition Centre in Mumbai from 18–20 September, to support demand for American hardwoods in the Indian market. The organisation will promote various US hardwood species and raise awareness of its American Hardwood Assured program.

Lumber and Veneer Exports Show Growth

US hardwood lumber exports to India increased in the first half of 2026. Value rose by 9% year-on-year, from $5.894 million to $6.428 million. Export volumes grew by 13%, from 9,204 cubic meters to 10,362 cubic meters. Veneer exports saw a 55% increase in total value, rising from $332,000 to $516,000 over the same period.

White oak was the most exported American hardwood species, valued at $2.339 million with 3,778 cubic meters shipped. Red oak followed at $1.668 million (2,632 cubic meters), then hickory at $986,000 (1,287 cubic meters), ash at $412,000 (725 cubic meters), and walnut at $389,000 (331 cubic meters).

AHEC states that red and white oak together comprised over 60% of the value and volume of American hardwood lumber exports to India.

AHEC to Promote Sustainable Hardwoods at MumbaiWood

Beyond its presence at MumbaiWood, AHEC will host an educational seminar in collaboration with the Bombay Timber Merchants Association (BTMA). This seminar will cover the American hardwood resource, sustainable forest management practices, production methods, kiln-drying processes, lumber grading standards, and the variety of species available.

The event provides an opportunity for AHEC representatives to engage with timber importers, wood-processing companies, and furniture designers and makers. AHEC will also use the platform to inform attendees about American Hardwood Assured (AHA), an initiative under development designed to confirm the legal and deforestation-free status of American hardwoods.

Implications for Asian Procurement

Roderick Wiles, AHEC regional director, notes the rapid development of India's imported temperate hardwoods market.

He attributes this growth to several factors: the expansion of India’s furniture manufacturing sector, decreasing availability of indigenous hardwood species, the shift of furniture production for export from China and Vietnam to India, and rising disposable incomes. Wiles confirms AHEC's long-term commitment to the market.

For procurement directors and specifiers in Asia, these trends suggest an increasing supply of certified American hardwoods for furniture and interior projects. Buyers should inquire about the American Hardwood Assured program's implementation and specific species availability, such as white and red oak, to meet project requirements and sustainability objectives.