China remains one of the world’s major importers of softwood logs and lumber, but its softwood sawlog imports have declined significantly in recent years. …China’s softwood sawlog import volumes in 2025 were less than half their 2021 peak and were down 17% year-over-year. The decline reflects both weaker demand and changes in global supply. While there are forecasts for improvement in China’s construction market in 2026 or 2027, the WMP report indicates there is limited evidence that this will lead to a rapid or substantial increase in sawlog imports. The main factor behind the decline has been reduced demand from China’s construction sector. The country’s real estate crisis began after several major developers collapsed in 2021. This reduced demand for construction timber over the following years. Some forecasts suggest China’s construction market may begin to improve this year or next, supported by infrastructure spending and urban renewal. However, any recovery is expected to be gradual.