HARDWOOD TRADE IN SELECTED COUNTRIES OF EASTERN EUROPE

This study focuses on trade of hardwood products in selected countries of Eastern Europe, specifically the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Hungary. It was supported by a survey conducted with companies producing products made of hardwoods. It monitors trade trends in the wood products industry, specifically focusing on lumber, wooden veneers, furniture production, musical instruments, and wooden accessories. It also addresses the current and potential import and use of the US hardwood lumber in these countries. The study is also pointing out the shortcomings of the monitored markets. The online questionnaire and follow-up phone calls were used to obtain information from companies in countries of interest. Results showed that 83.3% of Czech respondents already use imported hardwoods in their production, followed by Hungary (69.2%) and Slovakia (54.6%). Despite the relatively high values of imported hardwood products, the overall results show that there is only a small potential for an increase in import of the US hardwoods in the wood products industry in chosen countries. The utilization of tropical hardwood species will continue because of their superior properties for specialized products such as musical instruments. Results also point out the grooving importance of certified hardwoods, their utilization, and trade.

Industry 4.0 Implementation in US Primary Wood Products Industry

Understanding barriers to implementation of Industry 4.0 strategies is a first step to enable companies to begin to use and implement new technologies; using new technologies will allow mills to improve efficiency and stay relevant in the face of increasing international competition. This study uses a mail survey to gather insights regarding awareness of technologies within the US primary wood products industry as well as the barriers to using new technologies. Awareness of technologies is generally low, especially with respect to additive manufacturing, autonomous systems, and big data. Lack of skilled workers is the primary limiting factor to implementation of new technologies with other key factors being out-of-date facilities and unclear financial benefits. Existing expertise was highest in manufacturing process monitoring and data analysis, and lowest in robotics. Only a very small group of respondents have already implemented any form of robotics. Overall, only six respondents (6.7 %) have an Industry 4.0 strategy, while 77 % did not recognize the terms “Industry 4.0” or “Smart Manufacturing.” Results suggest considerable room for additional application of I4.0 technologies in the industry.