The feasibility of introducing a special trading session targeted at the UK market was among the key issues discussed during the talks between BUCE administration and EVA Timber Group Ltd. Bellesexport (Belarus’ major timber exporter) attended the event.

The parties reviewed the current situation in the European timber market and assessed the potential for boosting exports of the Belarusian wood products. According to Alexander Podgaiski, EVA Timber Group Director for CIS and Ukraine, Belarusian woodworking companies have good prospects in the UK market, but in order to succeed a special approach is required. 

“British customers value regular shipments, tight quality control, and adequate logistics. Besides, they are used to paying for the goods upon receipt, whereas Belarusian manufacturers usually dispatch the goods after prepayment. As a major importer, we could take on some of these risks and thus make the Belarusian products more attractive. I believe that sawn timber sold under “Made in Belarus” brand will be quite competitive on the British market, and we will contribute to this in terms of marketing and information support”, Alexander Podgaiski assured.

When sharing opinions regarding promising areas of cooperation, Alexander Osmolovski, BUCE Chairman, emphasized the strategic importance of the UK market for the Belarusian woodworking industry and offered to create the most favorable environment for EVA Timber Group should it decide to use BUCE’s electronic trading platform.

“We would like to see Belarusian sawn timber and other products on the shelves of big box stores throughout the UK. If this requires organizing specialized export trades similar to those we have introduced for the Chinese market, we are ready to make this step. This scheme works perfectly for Chinese buyers and think it will prove efficient for our British partners as well”, Alexander Osmolovski said.