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It’s very difficult to determine the exact volume or value of Honduras mahogany wood specifically sold in the US annually. Here’s why and what information is available:
Challenges in Tracking Specific Origin Sales:
* Import Data Focus: US import statistics generally track the type of wood (e.g., sawn wood, veneer) and the country of origin. While Honduras is a source of mahogany imports, the data often doesn’t break down sales within the US market by the original country of harvest after it enters the country.
* Re-export and Processing: Mahogany imported from Honduras might be processed, manufactured into furniture or other products, and then sold domestically or re-exported, making it hard to track the initial “Honduras mahogany wood” sale point.
* Data Confidentiality: Specific sales figures for individual timber types by origin are often proprietary to businesses and not publicly released in aggregate.
What We Do Know:
* Honduras is a Source of Mahogany Imports: The search results indicate that the US imports wood products from Honduras, including sawn wood and potentially furniture made from mahogany.
* CITES Regulation: Honduras mahogany ( Swietenia macrophylla) is listed on CITES Appendix II. This means that international trade in this species is regulated to ensure sustainability and legality. Exports require permits from Honduras, and imports into the US are also subject to regulations by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. This regulation implies a level of monitoring of the trade volume, but not necessarily detailed sales figures within the US.
* US is a Major Importer of Mahogany: Historically, the US has been a leading global importer of big-leaf mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla), the species commonly known as Honduras mahogany. However, over time, South American countries like Brazil and Peru became major suppliers.
* Trade Data Shows Imports from Honduras: Available trade data shows that the US does import wood from Honduras. For example, in 2021, the US imported a significant value of wood from Honduras. More recent data from April 2024 shows imports of mahogany sawn wood from Honduras into the US.
* Market Demand: Honduras mahogany is valued for its quality, workability, and beautiful grain, making it desirable for furniture, musical instruments, veneers, and boatbuilding. This sustained demand implies ongoing sales in the US market.
How to Get More Specific Information (Though Still Limited):
* US Import Statistics: You can explore detailed US import data from sources like the US Census Bureau or the International Trade Administration. These datasets might provide volume and value of wood imports from Honduras, but won’t track sales within the US.
* Industry Reports: Market research reports on the US hardwood market might contain some aggregated data on mahogany sales, but likely won’t break it down by the original country of harvest like Honduras. These reports are often proprietary and require a subscription.
* Trade Associations: Contacting timber trade associations in the US that deal with hardwood imports might provide some qualitative insights or access to more specific data, though likely not exact sales figures.
In summary, while we know Honduras mahogany wood is sold in the US due to imports, the exact quantity or value is not readily available in public statistics due to the complexities of tracking wood products after import and the proprietary nature of sales data. The CITES Appendix II listing ensures that the trade is regulated, but doesn’t provide specific sales figures within the US market.

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