While the forest products industry’s output, which includes pulp and paper, was largely unchanged, wood products production increased by 7%, to nearly 8.2 million m3, and plywood production also by 7% to just over 850,000m3.
During the first three quarters, Finnish Forest Industries Federation (FFIF) member companies bought 23.1 million m3 of wood from private forests – 1% more than the same period in 2013.
According to the FFIF, the forest products industry plans investments worth around €1.5bn, which could increase timber consumption by 10 million m3 a year.
“The investments must be secured with efficient timber markets and logistics, as much greater volumes of wood will be needed,” said FFIF president Timo Jaatinen.
“Our competitiveness must also be enhanced with long-term energy solutions that support industry as well as added productivity and flexibility in the labour markets.”
