Finnish sawn sofwood output grows 5% in first half

Total softwood sawn timber production for January-June came to 5.8 million m3.

The second quarter saw a production of 3.1 million m3, a 16% growth from the previous quarter and up 8% from a year ago.

Meanwhile, Finnish paperboard production increased 6.6% in January-June and pulp production was up 4.2% compared to the corresponding period of 2015.

Forest industry investments in Finland have started to grow, but FFIF said this positive development “can only continue in a competitive operating environment”.

FFIF said the EU was currently deliberating on several matters that have an impact on the forest-based sector.

“Proposals regarding the European Union’s implementation of the Paris climate agreement were complemented by the Commission’s publication of emission-reduction obligations for sectors not covered by emissions trading,” said Timo Jaatinen, FFIF director general.

“The 39% emission-reduction target imposed on Finland is very challenging. The possibility of taking full advantage of sustainable annual harvesting opportunities must be ensured when drafting regulations concerning the climate and the environment.”