Ducerf Group at India Wood
Ducerf Groupe at India Wood: Strong demand for French Oak
In early March, we participated in the India Wood trade fair, a key event for woodworking professionals in Asia. This event provided an excellent opportunity for our company to showcase our expertise and present our range of sawn French oak products.
"The Indian market is one we have been working on for a long time. In this country, networking and supplier relationships are fundamental aspects of business, making a continuous and active presence at this trade fair all the more important," explains Florence Perrucaud, Export Manager at Ducerf Groupe.
A rapidly expanding market
The woodworking industry in India is particularly dynamic, with strong growth in demand for timber. Globally, wood exports to India have seen remarkable growth. Specifically for oak, exports increased from 7,248 m³ in 2020 to 43,520 m³ in 2024—a surge of 500.44%. This trend highlights the rapid expansion of the Indian market and the growing interest in high-quality wood species.
Within this dynamic landscape, French wood exports to India have also seen significant growth, rising from 1,243 m³ in 2020 to 5,500 m³ in 2024—an increase of 342.48%. This evolution demonstrates the rising appeal of French oak, not only for its distinctive qualities but also for the sustainable forest management practices widely recognized internationally.
Currently, we primarily market secondary-grade oak lumber in India. However, we are witnessing a rising demand for higher-grade products as well as processed wood solutions. This shift indicates substantial growth potential for French oak in the Indian market in the coming years.
India is home to numerous manufacturers specializing in solid wood and veneered furniture production for both domestic and export markets. Wooden flooring is also a thriving segment, driven by the boom in high-end residential and commercial projects. This trend is accompanied by increasing requirements for quality and traceability in raw materials.
A Fast-Growing market with strong prospects
"Back in Delhi, I was struck by how quickly India's wood industry is evolving. After 15 years of experience in this market, we can see that French oak has now secured its place alongside local species and teak," notes Florence Perrucaud.
“Demand has grown rapidly, driven by the country’s development in the furniture and interior design sectors. Our partners are now reporting strong order books, with commitments extending up to two years. We continue to support our Indian clients in understanding the unique characteristics of French oak, ensuring they can fully capitalize on this exceptional resource.”
Ducerf Groupe: A trusted partner for the Indian market
Participating in events like India Wood allows us to strengthen our relationships with partners and explore new opportunities. The future looks bright for French oak in India, and Ducerf Groupe is committed to supporting this growth alongside other key players in the French timber industry and the “French Timber” association.
