The opening of a new Russian-Japanese lumber mill in the Irkutsk region is expected to pave the way for further joint ventures.
The Sibexportles-Tairiku facility, which features fully automatic machinery, will export about 40% of its output and bring in up to R100m to the region.
Irkutsk’s governor says other investments will be set up, with Chinese and Malaysian companies expressing interest in being involved.
Advantages of joint venture mills include the ability to reduce unprocessed timber exports and improve the timber sector’s efficiency.
