Timber!
Trade data reveals that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) imported over $267 billion worth of wood and wood products in 2023, positioning it the 24th largest import importing market for woods globally. The country's total imports in this category grew at an annual rate of 12% between 2019-2023, with the value increasing by 10% from 2022 to 2023 alone showing the market's rising appetite for imported timber. That is true, particularly, the country posted trade deficits in its major subcategory, fiberboard, underscoring its reliance on imports to meet domestic demand for fiberboard.
This release provides an in-depth look at the logistics of importing the most in-demand timber into the UAE - fiberboard. ⬇️
UAE Fiberboard Imports (HS Code 4411):
To note, the category: HS code 4411 include fiberboard and other ligneous materials such as chipboard and oriented strand board. Our focus here is fiberboard. Fiberboard has several subcategories such as MDF and HDF. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) imported $339.01 million worth of fiberboard in 2023, representing strong annual growth of 18% between 2019-2023.
However, the country registered a substantial trade deficit of $337.19 million in fiberboard, indicating heavy reliance on imports to meet internal demand. With 3.1% share of global fiberboard imports, the UAE ranked as the 7th largest importer worldwide in 2023. This highlights its position as a major consumer market for foreign-produced fiberboard. The average distance of supplying trade partners Thailand and China is 4,779 km. Additionally, the market concentration level of 0.48 indicates a moderately concentrated supply base, that is, a few countries account for a significant proportion of the UAE's fiberboard imports.
Thailand: Sourcing Origin for Fiberboard
Thailand is the 4th largest exporter of fiberboard globally, with 7.7% of world exports. The country is also the dominant source of fiberboard imports for the UAE, accounting for $226.92 million or 66.9% of UAE’s total imports of fiberboard. 831,790 tons of fiberboard were imported from Thailand in 2023, with a unit value of $273 per ton. UAE imports of fiberboard from Thailand grew at 22% annually between 2019-2023. The average shipping distance from Thailand to the UAE is 5,349 km.
Thailand to the UAE: Sea Shipping Routes
The most frequent route is from Laem Chabang Port to Abu Dhabi Port, the route spans 7,257 km taking 15 days 12 hours to complete. It is the most commonly used ocean route for shipping fiberboard from Thailand to the UAE given its regularity allowing for consolidated shipments. On the other hand, the quickest ocean route is from Laem Chabang Port to Jebel Ali Port covering 4,978 km, this direct route with 3 stops in Singapore, Sri Lanka, and India, takes 14 days 9 hours to complete.
Logistical and Storage Considerations
✅ Density - The density and thickness of the fiberboard impacts how much weight it can support when stacked. Denser boards with higher pound test ratings can be stacked higher without crushing. Lighter boards require more protective supports.
✅ Structural strength - Some grades of fiberboard are designed for structural strength, while others are just for basic protection. Structural boards can more readily be used as pallet substitutes, shelves, and assembling packaging. Non-structural boards require further bracing.
✅ Flute direction - For corrugated fiberboard, the direction of the inner flutes impacts stacking strength. Vertical flutes better handle top-to-bottom compression. Stacking should align flutes vertically to maximize stability.
✅ Protection from moisture - Some fiberboard shipments are vulnerable to moisture damage, so it's important to keep it dry during shipping. We use water-resistant wraps or containers, avoid exposing it to rain or condensation, and keep it off damp floors. Desiccant packs can help absorb excess moisture. For storage, warehouse storage areas should be climate controlled. Allow time for moisture equalization when moving board from one environment to another. Keep wrapped until use.
✅ Dust Generation - Fiberboard dust is easily generated from abrasion and can be combustible. Good ventilation and cleaning is required in storage areas. Avoid ignition sources. Dust collection systems can help control particulate.
Shipping fiberboards to the UAE? We load and deliver all types of fiberboard. Describe your cargo to our team now and receive a free customized quotation today: