Why auctions, not a fixed price
Because red sandalwood is a regulated, high-value timber, much of the legal supply is sold through official auctions rather than over a counter at a fixed rate. Buyers inspect graded lots and bid, so the realised value reflects quality and demand at that moment.
What determines a lot’s value
- Grade and quality of the wood.
- Heartwood content, where the value concentrates.
- Log dimension and, occasionally, rare features like wavy grain.
- Buyer demand on the day of sale.
How to read auction signals
The Andhra Pradesh Forest Department’s auction results are a primary source for real price signals. Read figures there with their date and grade context, a number without both is close to meaningless. We deliberately do not print a headline price on this site for that reason.
What this means for you
Treat any operator’s single "price per kg" claim with caution, and ask what grade and date it refers to. For the value drivers in detail, see our market-intelligence price-trends page; for the honest answer on price, see the FAQ.