The European Commission has recently disclosed the findings of its investigation into imports of Russian birch plywood. Shockingly, the evidence indicates that Russian birch plywood is still being imported into the EU market via Kazakhstan and Turkey, therefore bypassing anti-dumping duties.
Given that Russian wood products are also subject to sanctions in the EU and the UK, these findings are expected to prompt further action by national authorities and the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF).
This investigation serves as a critical milestone, exposing deceptive practices within the European timber trade. As scrutiny intensifies on Russian birch plywood routed through Kazakhstan and Turkey we should anticipate heightened controls and inspections. The Commission’s findings suggest the possibility of customs fraud and sanction violations by various importers, traders, and users. Anyone purchasing such material should be aware of the potential criminal implications.
For more detailed information, you can refer to this press release published by the Woodstock Consortium, or visit their website.
DHH Panel Products only imports Birch plywood from Latvia, Estonia, Poland, and Finland so customers can be assured they are making a safe and legal choice on any purchase