Domestic large-diameter log use in the Japanese lumber manufacturing industry: focusing on regional differences

Abstract

ABSTRACT Japan’s postwar policies with respect to forestry management have led to the aging of planted forests and a shift toward large-diameter logs that has created a challenge for how to use such logs in the lumber manufacturing industry. In recent years, medium-diameter logs have been the predominant type, and there has been less demand for large-diameter logs. This study examines the Japanese lumber manufacturing industry’s consumption of domestic timber using survey data from 21 member companies of the Domestic Timber Sawmill Association. The results suggest that regional characteristics and the tree species consumed are the two main factors that drive the decision to use large-diameter logs. While current demand for large-diameter logs is considered low, the results show that demand is present, and there are signs of growing consumption of these logs within the lumber manufacturing industry. As the current machinery that handles medium-diameter logs depreciates, it is expected that companies will respond by either introducing machinery that can accommodate large-diameter logs or changing their products.