Finnish sawn timber production up 17% in 2010

Finnish sawn timber production grew 17% in 2010 to 9.4 million m³, according to figures just released.

The Finnish Forest Industries Federation (FFIF) said overall forest industry production increased 12% last year but volumes were not at the level achieved in 2008. Total wood product output grew by 14%.

The value of the forest industry’s production rose to €19bn, with the wood products sector’s output worth €5.5bn.

FFIF said the industry continued its positive development trend following the implementation of structural changes by companies across the sector.

However, FFIF said rising domestic costs were having a direct impact on export competitiveness, with energy and fuel taxes eroding the industry’s ability to compete in international markets.

A recent investment survey conducted by the Confederation of Finnish Industries EK reveals that the forest industry’s domestic investments came to almost €650m in 2010, up nearly 25% on 2009.

Export volumes grew by about 15% and the value of exports by about 25% to around €10.5bn.

For more on these figures see the next issue of TTJ.