**Expanding the use of domestic timber - May 2007**.

**Expanding the use of domestic timber - May 2007**.

In May 2007, significant progress was made in the use of domestic lumber in Japan. In particular, the production of softwood plywood reached a record high. This is due to a decrease in the supply of south-sea lumber and higher prices as a result of stricter logging regulations in Malaysia and Indonesia. In addition, the price competitiveness of domestic timber has improved due to the rising price of imported timber caused by the weak yen. In the domestic market, demand for thick plywood has increased with the spread of earthquake-resistant construction, and capital investment has improved production efficiency. Furthermore, advances in technology for using wood from thinning have contributed to forest improvement, resulting in a stable supply. The combination of these factors has led to a significant expansion in the use of domestic timber, an important step toward the sustainable use of forest resources.