Brazilian Wood Depot explores the Effects of a Weaker Brazilian Currency on Timber Products

Brazil, as the largest economic powerhouse in Latin America, has long relied on its abundant natural resources to fuel its economic growth. However, the recent transformation of Brazil into one of the world’s largest economies has placed immense value on its currency, the real R$. This newfound economic significance has raised concerns among international investors, especially when the real’s value experiences significant fluctuations.

So, how does a decrease in the value of the real R$ affect timber prices? It’s essential to understand that a decrease in currency value is closely tied to inflation. As the real R$ loses value, the prices of most goods tend to rise proportionally, along with the costs of manufacturing. Timber production, a highly logistical process involving permits, temporary road construction, barge rentals, and more, entails labor and material expenses that increase as the real R$ weakens. These cost increases inevitably impact lumber prices. Conversely, if the real’s value appreciates, the opposite trend occurs.

The silver lining in this situation is that, despite the rise in timber prices due to currency fluctuations and demand, the strength of the US dollar plays a mitigating role. As the dollar’s purchasing power increases against the real R$, it helps alleviate the escalation in production costs. In simpler terms, although prices experience an uptick, the increase is less dramatic than it would be if the dollar were not as robust.

Looking ahead, what does the future hold for the real R$ and the lumber industry? Forecasts indicate that the real R$ will continue to weaken, which implies a steady increase in timber prices. With the current high demand for Brazilian hardwood, the dollar’s mitigating effect is expected to diminish. In summary, brace yourself for a price hike in Brazilian wood, likely occurring around the commencement of the third quarter of 2015.

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