On October 29, the U.S. Soft Woods Association in collaboration with the Softwood Export Council presented a wood construction material seminar in Shenzhen geared toward major consumers of U.S. wood.  MAP funds were used to bring ten companies to promote their products in a table top display exhibition.  The invited associations included construction firm designers, architects, and engineers in Shenzhen.   Discussion was broken up by an overview of the many wood products that go into U.S. soft woods with an added emphasis on engineered wood products.  The strong demand for U.S. softwoods is indicative of how U.S. agriculture is helping China improve the quality of construction projects and the country’s development.  Popular designs utilizing large amounts of U.S. woods include housing, club houses, resorts, restaurants, interior design including flooring, paneling, walls, roofs, as well as benches, book shelves, and other furniture.  Engineered woods have become increasingly popular in South China due to their high tension resistance and durability.  Engineered woods are also the most efficient use of the entire tree virtually eliminating all waste.  ATO/Guangzhou met with every U.S. wood exporter to understand their products and needs from our office. Post also introduced major buyers from South China to U.S. exporters.  The seminar was an excellent opportunity for Post to gain new market information, strengthen trader relationships, and promote ATO/Guangzhou services.