Middle East timber supply at risk amid escalating Israel-Iran conflict

Middle East timber supply at risk amid escalating Israel-Iran conflict

Posted on July 2, 2025 |

Timber trade flows into the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) may slow due to escalating Israel-Iran tensions.

The Baltic and International Maritime Council warned that the Strait of Hormuz and Gulf routes are now at risk of major disruption.

Maritime activity has declined since the recent U.S. strike on Iranian facilities, reducing the number of ships passing through.

Although most trade through these routes is oil-based, timber traders are feeling the uncertainty as well.

In the U.S., fears are growing over potential reciprocal tariffs on timber exports due to a national security investigation on lumber, expected to conclude in November.

Despite global slowdowns, UAE (up 27%), Saudi Arabia (up 8%), and Egypt (up 15%) have significantly increased hardwood imports from the U.S., largely due to large-scale construction.

Australian firm Weathertex has also been active in the region, exporting sustainable timber products like wall panels and cladding to countries including Iran and Israel earlier this year.

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