Why Non-Residential?
The Japanese non-residential construction sector has substantial market potential for Canadian wood products. Between 2014 and 2018, the sector saw a compound annual growth rate of 5.9%. Government efforts to promote the country’s tourism sector, along with policy measures encouraging wood use in public and commercial applications, are expected to continue furthering market growth.
Opportunities
Canada Wood Japan/COFI works closely with Japanese industry associations, academics and code officials to facilitate wood use in large-scale non-residential facilities (ex: education, elder-care, hotel, and agricultural). Our research and development program resulted in securing numerous fireproof approvals from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transportation (MLIT). These key documents accredit Canadian wood products like Midply and NLT for use in non-residential construction.
Achievements
In order to tap into the non-residential housing market, Canada Wood Japan promotes the Midply wall system as the next-generation seismic building solution for non-residential applications. Leading builders in Japan now recognize Midply as one of the most effective ways to build mid-rise and large-scale wooden structures.
Thanks to our integrated market access, and our market development programs, we’ve succeeded in medical, social welfare, and elder-care facilities with market penetration of more than 50%. As the Japanese population continues to age, we anticipate these markets to remain strong —creating ongoing opportunities for wood-frame construction.
Future
Together with the Japan Wood Truss Council and Japan 2×4 Home Builders Association, we’ve pursued new opportunities in the education and agriculture sectors. In recent years, we’ve seen an increase in the wood use in these segments across Japan.
