Five types of Canadian softwood are gaining high esteem due to their sustainable and environmentally friendly characteristics, durability, performance, and aesthetic appeal.
In recent years, the interior product manufacturing industry in Vietnam has experienced remarkable growth, outpacing the expansion of domestic wood supply.
This, along with a decrease in the availability of hardwood, has led furniture manufacturers to explore alternative materials, such as high-quality softwood from the province of British Columbia (B.C.), Canada.
Among these, five types of softwood, western hemlock, western red cedar, yellow cedar, douglas-fir, and spruce-pine-fir (SPF) groups, have garnered high esteem.
Meeting demand for sustainably sourced wood
To preserve natural forests for future generations, British Columbia strictly adheres to reforestation and forest management regulations based on advanced scientific principles.
On average, only a small fraction of 1% of the total forest area is harvested each year, with over 200 million young trees planted, contributing to the maintenance of lush forests for the future.
Certified sustainable forests with quality wood resources in British Columbia. Photo courtesy Canadian Wood
Moreover, British Columbia boasts one of the highest certification rates globally, with over 41 million hectares (76%) certified by reputable independent organizations such as the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) and the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).
Globally, British Columbia represents 9% of the total certified forests in the world, effectively meeting the growing demand for certified and sustainably sourced wood from responsibly managed forests.
According to the 2023 PwC Global Consumer Insights Pulse Survey, consumer preferences align with this trend, as overwhelmingly, more than three-fourths (78%) are willing to pay higher for products produced or sourced locally, made from recycled, sustainable, or eco-friendly materials (77%), or produced by a company with a reputation for ethical practices (75%).
This consumer sentiment reinforces the preference for softwood from British Columbia among businesses, highlighting the importance of sustainability and ethical sourcing in today’s market.
Flexibility in application
In addition to their source and origin, softwood products from the Canadian province also possess numerous outstanding advantages, ensuring flexibility and suitability for various manufacturing applications.
In terms of appearance, each species has its unique beauty, displaying a variety of features such as flat or vertical grain, clear wood or sound-tight knots, or a combination suitable for luxurious and high-class interior and exterior designs.
During crafting, British Columbia’s various softwoods can be bent, shaped, and assembled, making them ideal materials for furniture applications, moldings, ceilings, and paneling, as well as for millwork and various other indoor and exterior elements.
Canadian wood ensures the durability and aesthetic appeal of interior products. Photo courtesy of Canadian Wood
These species can also be easily edge-glued and/or finger-jointed to match surfaces. Standardized sizes and grades ensure customers consistently receive high-quality products with each purchase.
Canadian softwoods can be used for various products, from common building materials and pallets to durable, intricately carved, high-end furniture.
For instance, Western hemlock is an excellent material for producing edge trims and interior wooden products like shelves, cabinets, tables, and chairs. Other applications include doors, windows, suspended ceilings, wooden stairs, or use in composite construction.
Similarly, yellow cedar stands out for its structure and density between growth rings (grain), making it extremely easy to work with for intricate carvings and furniture.
Douglas-fir wood is considered the top choice for manufacturing door and window frames and constructing heavy-duty structures such as assembled vaulted roofs or house roof frames.
Global trust and reputation
In the international market, Forestry Innovation Investment (FII), a Crown agency of the British Columbia Government under the province of British Columbia, in collaboration with the Canadian government and industry partners, focuses on diversifying the market for British Columbia’s forest products.
In markets like the United States, Japan, and South Korea, British Columbia softwood has been extensively utilized for decades across a diverse range of applications.
It meets the requirements of certified and sustainable materials, contributing to the reduction of carbon in the built environment.
At the same time, these types of softwood are trusted and recognized for their quality.
Some exemplary projects using Canadian wood include the Tokyo University of the Arts International Exchange Center in Japan, Sakura Hospital in Japan, and Nativ Restaurant in Baner, Pune, India.
Customer exploring Canadian softwood species at HAWA Expo 2024. Photo courtesy of Canadian Wood
In the Vietnamese market, B.C. softwood, promoted by Canadian Wood Vietnam, which is part of Forestry Innovation Investment (FII), a Crown agency of the British Columbia Government.
A notable example is Khang My, a large furniture manufacturer in Dong Nai Province, which ordered Western Hemlock following a test trial with a small quantity.
The company representative shared that the product’s strength and flexibility make processing easier and more efficient.
Its mandate is to connect reputable wood export units from British Columbia with furniture manufacturers, designers, and distributors in Vietnam.