Leading global wood-based panels producer Arauco posted adjusted EBITDA for its wood products business of US$124.6m during Q2, 2024, which translates to an 8.6% or US$9.8m increase compared to the previous quarter.
The division’s EBITDA margin was 16.6%,1.5% higher than the previous quarter.
For composite wood-based panel products, Arauco’s sales volume and average prices increased 2.1% and 1% respectively during Q2.
In the US, Arauco said the market was active in numerous products, especially in PB, where there was restricted supply at the end of the quarter. In Latin America, oversupply seen in MDF in the last quarter stabilised mainly due to logistical issues in Brazil, Chile and Asia.
The plywood segment saw sales decrease in Q2, offset by a 4.1% growth in average prices. The fall in sales was mainly affected by the Puerto Coronel strike.
Supply decreased in Brazil, China and Europe, while the North America market remained balanced, continuing the trend in the first quarter.
In Latin America, mainly Chile, supply issues and a better local consumption increased local sales volume when compared to the same period last year.
Plywood production and sales volumes in Q2 were 131,000m3 and 129,000m3 respectively.
In July, Arauco approved the construction of an OSB mill within the Trupan-Cholguan complex, through the modernisation and renovation of some sections of the MDF line, taking advantage of the current facilities and incorporating and adapting equipment.
The US$92m investment will result in an OSB capacity of 110,000m3, with an average of 200 workers expected to be employed. Operations are expected to begin in the second quarter of 2026.
