Canada log export plunge emerges as first possible TPP violation

Japan relies on the material to keep its domestic lumber industry viable

Despite an agreement designed to ensure a stable supply of Canadian logs to Japan, actual shipments sank to zero in April. © Reuters

TAKAKO GAKUTO, Nikkei staff writer

July 16, 2020 01:55 JST

TOKYO -- Log exports from Canada to Japan have dropped in recent months despite a side deal to the Trans-Pacific Partnership designed to ensure stable supply, raising concerns of a possible first violation of the regional trade pact.

Shipments fell 77% on the year in the January-May period to 97,380 sq. meters, according to the Japan Lumber Importers' Association. No logs were shipped at all in April, and May's figure was just 5% of the level a year earlier.