African sandalwood prices raise the price of Betula alba

The recent surge in prices for Zhangjiagang's African sandalwood, often referred to as African red pear, has caught the attention of many investors. The price has now been hiked up to 3,800 yuan per cubic meter, significantly narrowing down the speculative opportunities for the "Cattle Party," particularly in the Guangdong market. Interestingly, there seems to be a lack of interest among northern buyers. Meanwhile, the price for Zhangjiagang's African bean, also known as African chicken wings, has reportedly reached 4,800 yuan per cubic meter. Additionally, the cost of African screwwood, or African sandalwood, varies between 4,600 to 5,500 yuan per cubic meter, while an odd report suggests a price range of 2,700 to 2,800 yuan per cubic meter. Betula alba, on the other hand, remains relatively stagnant in the market. The overall supply continues to be limited, though prices remain stable. However, expectations are high for a potential relief in supply issues once new shipments arrive from Burma. Currently, in Guangdong Province, a 2.2-2.6-meter-long, 5-centimeter-thick piece of Betula alba, classified as A-grade quality, is being quoted at around 5,200 to 5,500 yuan per cubic meter. As the market dynamics continue to shift, industry insiders are closely monitoring these trends. The rise in African species like sandalwood and screwwood reflects not only a growing demand but also increasing concerns over sustainable sourcing. In contrast, the sluggish movement in Betula alba might be linked to seasonal factors or the anticipation of future stock replenishments. Investors are advised to keep a close eye on both regional and international developments to make informed decisions in this ever-changing market landscape.