30.10.2026
At its meeting on 13 October 2026, the ATIBT’s Timber, Industry & Standardisation Commission discussed commercial practices, material performance and developments in standards. This work pursues a common objective: to provide professionals with technical guidance to help them choose the right timber for the right purpose and to promote tropical timber species.
Container shipments: highlighting the benefits of FCA
The committee reviewed the supplementary note to the booklet on Incoterms® 2020, published by ATIBT in French and English. This note clarifies the differences between FCA and FOB for timber shipments in containers, particularly regarding the transfer of risk between seller and buyer.
The discussions highlighted the discrepancy between the rules and certain commercial practices, which perpetuate the use of FOB for containerised shipments. The committee wishes to continue disseminating this note to help companies better understand the consequences of their contractual choices.
Eucalyptus and heat-treated timber: examining performance according to end-use
Two technical notes, drawn up following the Commission’s previous discussions, are currently being finalised prior to publication on the ATIBT website.
The first concerns the impact of variability in Eucalyptus species on the quality of multi-ply squared timber for joinery. Against a backdrop of competition with African tropical timbers, notably Sapelli, it examines differences in properties depending on species, growing conditions, tree age and the position of the timber within the trunk. Discussions emphasised the need to take this variability into account when assessing durability and suitability for use.
The second paper provides an overview of thermally modified timber (TMT): processes, tree species, performance, use classes and the regulatory framework. Thermal modification can improve the stability and durability of certain timbers, but it also alters their mechanical properties. Its benefits must therefore be assessed according to the intended product and use. For certain tropical timber species, this technology opens up opportunities for added value, particularly in cladding. The committee nevertheless emphasises the importance of having appropriate data to substantiate the claimed performance.
Updating the nomenclature of timber used in Europe
The resumption of work on revising the EN 13556 standard, which covers the nomenclature of timber used in Europe, is another project being monitored by the committee.
The proposals under discussion relate in particular to updating botanical names, adding tropical timber species and taking better account of ATIBT pilot names. The aim is to facilitate the identification of timber and to minimise confusion or substitutions arising from naming conventions. Members are invited to contribute to the review of these proposals.
Tropix online : easier access to technical data
The meeting also provided an opportunity to present Tropix online, CIRAD’s new application which replaces the Tropix 7 software.
Freely accessible at no cost in French and English, it allows users to consult data on more than 300 timber species, carry out multi-criteria searches and download technical data sheets. The information available includes physical and mechanical properties, durability, drying, machining, assembly and main uses. Designed for use on tablets and mobile phones as well, this resource supports professionals in their technical decisions. The committee recommends downloading the data sheets directly from the app to ensure you have the latest version.
Eveuss: clarifying the differences to better guide the markets
Discussions on Eveuss have highlighted the need to better explain the differences between the species and forms grouped under this trade name, as well as the variability in their characteristics.A public information document based on available scientific findings is to be prepared, to help professionals distinguish between these woods and direct their use towards products suited to their performance characteristics. This clarification should help to reassure the market and support a more targeted promotion of the species. Finally, participants discussed the constraints linked to CITES and developments in the rail sector, notably the decline in the SNCF’s purchases of tropical timber sleepers. These issues underscore the importance of combining technical knowledge, dialogue with buyers and market development. Through this work, the committee is continuing its mission to share expertise and develop practical resources to support the sector.
The full report is available on request from jean.gerard@cirad.fr
