USD Exchange Rate and Shipping Risks Affect MDF Plywood and Particle Board
author: Carl
2026-03-12
The US dollar has strengthened significantly due to rising geopolitical tensions. The EUR/USD has dropped to around 1.1500, the lowest level since November 2025. The USD/CNY exchange rate also fluctuates greatly, which directly increases our production and export costs for MDF, plywood and particle board.
At the same time, the situation in the Middle East remains tense. Most cargo heading to the Middle East can only stay at sea or wait at nearby ports, causing extra high costs such as port fees, storage charges, detention fees and shipping surcharges. Our particle board shipments are also affected by these extra expenses.
Major shipping lines have had to reroute via the Cape of Good Hope, making the voyage 15–20 days longer. Container space is tight, freight and war risk insurance keep rising, and sailing schedules are highly unstable.
We strongly suggest you arrange orders as soon as possible:
- Longer voyages and less available space make booking more difficult.
- Freight and extra charges will keep increasing.
- Uncertain schedules increase the risk of delays and rollovers.
- The geopolitical situation is still unpredictable.
- Later shipments will face higher costs and lower stability.
We will keep updating you on the latest exchange rate and shipping situation. Please confirm your orders early to avoid higher costs and delivery risks.
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2026 USD Exchange Rate & Geopolitics Impact Wood Panels
