As the year draws to a close, many of us are likely breathing a collective sigh of relief after what has been one of the most challenging years for sawmillers in recent memory. Many in the industry have never experienced such difficult times, and it is a testament to our resilience that so many sawmillers remain in business.
With 2025 on the horizon, we can begin to look forward with a sense of cautious optimism. I want to take this opportunity to reflect on the progress of various initiatives we’ve undertaken this year.
Export Markets and Opportunities
Following the decision at the 2023 AGM to establish the SSA Export Working Group (EWG), comprising experienced sawmillers nationwide, our focus has been on identifying viable export opportunities. The goal remains to alleviate the local market’s oversupply by moving a portion of our production offshore.
This year, our efforts included participating in the Inter Africa Trade Fair in Cairo. While we returned without tangible opportunities, it became evident that Africa—beyond trading with immediate neighbours and Indian Ocean islands—currently holds little potential for South African lumber exports.
We then shifted our focus to the Far East, specifically China. In September, I attended the 14th China Global Wood Trade Conference in Rizhao to explore the Chinese market. What we learned is both promising and challenging:
- Market Size: The Chinese market is vast, importing substantial volumes of lumber, primarily from the USA, Canada, and Russia.
- Quality and Standards: While their quality demands are not overly stringent, their reliance on metric dimensions could pose a challenge for South African mills, as we’ve seen in Australia.
- Pricing: Current prices are less than ideal, but we remain optimistic about long-term potential.
Welcome Back, York Timbers
We are thrilled to welcome York Timbers back to the association. Their return significantly strengthens our collective voice and influence, and we are eager to benefit from their professionalism and expertise.
On the subject of professionalism, it’s worth acknowledging the outstanding work being done by the York Chair in Wood Structural Engineering at the University of Pretoria under the leadership of Dr Schalk Grobbelaar.
In recognition of this vital work, the SSA Executive has committed R1 million over the next three years to support the Chair. This investment is crucial for the future of timber in South Africa, especially in promoting its use in the construction and engineering sectors. The potential economic and environmental benefits of expanding timber use in these sectors cannot be overstated.
Collaboration and Industry Promotion
The collaboration between academia and industry continues to yield positive results. At the Green Building Convention South Africa earlier this month, Dr Grobbelaar and his students spearheaded the development of a timber-focused exhibit.
One of his students, Alexander Marques, described the stall as an “incredible success,” drawing significant interest and fostering meaningful conversations about timber’s role in sustainability.
Meanwhile, the work of Prof. Brand Wessels and Dr Phillip Crafford at Stellenbosch University on the WoodApp remains invaluable in driving a better understanding and broader adoption of timber.
Additionally, our Talking Timber Webinars, now CPD-accredited, have gained momentum. We are actively expanding our audience, targeting property developers in particular. Look out for updates on the 2025 dates and topics.
Collaboration with Government
This year, SSA worked closely with the Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition (dtic) and the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE). The dtic’s support of key events like the Growing Timber Connections Conference in September and the Green Building Convention is particularly encouraging. These initiatives play a critical role in educating and influencing future architects.
The Forestry Masterplan (FMP) continues to guide the industry. SSA, along with FSA, PAMSA, SAWPA, and SAUPA, plays a key role on the Oversight Committee, ensuring our sector receives the attention it deserves.
One area of focus under the FMP has been combating timber theft and the illegal trade of undried, ungraded, and untreated structural timber produced and sold by so called roadside sawmills. This practice not only undermines the integrity and value of responsibly produced lumber but also contravenes the Consumer Protection Act, endangering consumers and undermining the quality of formally produced and promoted timber.
Education and Skills Development
We must also recognise the tireless efforts of Diane Randall and Tracey Beek in skills development. Their patience and persistence in navigating the complexities of the FP&M SETA, QCTO, and NAMB processes deserve applause.
The Sawdoctor Trade Qualification has been years in the making, but Diane’s steadfast determination means we are closer than ever. Let’s hope that 2025 finally delivers the recognition that sawdoctors get their long overdue day in the sun.
Looking Ahead
As we head into the festive season, let us reflect on the resilience of our industry and look forward to a brighter 2025. Remember, it is just as important to “cut straight and dry flat” in 2025 as it has been for the past 50 years.
Wishing you all a blessed Christmas and a safe and prosperous New Year. Enjoy your holidays, and we’ll see you next year!
Cheers,
Roy Southey
Executive Director: Sawmilling South Africa
