Planned infrastructure spending in the US is having a knock-on effect on the price of lumber, pushing wood prices up 35% this year. As of April 23, 2021, CME lumber futures are five times what they were in April 2020.

What does this ‘wood shock’ have to do with Japan? With the majority of new detached house construction built with wood frame, the skyrocketing cost of raw materials is likely to make homes more expensive. Approximately 70% of wood used in home construction in Japan is imported.

This content is available to paid subscribers only.

Sharing information on Japan’s real estate market has been a long passion dating back 14 years. However, gathering and preparing this content takes hours and hours each week. By joining our monthly subscription service, you can access over 3,200 articles dating back 14 years. Best of all, you’ll be supporting us in our endeavor to continue to provide investors with on-the-ground, expert information.

To join our paid subscription service and access over 3,200 news articles on Japan's real estate market, please register here.

Already a paid member? Log-in using your details below.