Geopolitical developments and their impact on the forestry and timber sector will be the main focus of this year’s German Timber Congress 2026.
Organised by the German Sawmill and Timber Industry Association (DeSH), the Congress in Wiesbaden on November 18-19 will also feature prominent speakers addressing the political and economic framework and opportunities of digitalization, providing ample opportunity for networking.
DeSH says the global political landscape is undergoing significant change, with international crises, the erosion of trade and supply chains, and energy and raw material dependencies are posing challenges for policymakers, businesses, and society.
“The new global situation also offers opportunities for strategic raw materials, resilient supply chains, and regional value creation through wood,” said DeSH president Dr Stephan Lang.
“We want to discuss how the industry can position itself for the future in this new environment at the German Wood Congress 2026.”
Opening remarks will be from Ingmar Jung, Hesse’s Minister for Agriculture, Environment, Viticulture, Forestry, Hunting, and Home Affairs.
Prof Dr Moritz Schularick, President of the Kiel Institute for the World Economy, will examine global economic policy developments, while Dagmar Rosenfeld, political journalist and moderator, will explore the close interrelationship between business and politics, before Sascha Lobo, journalist and digital entrepreneur, addresses the opportunities and risks of digitalization.
In addition to the keynote speeches, there will be in-depth discussions among industry representatives.
“With the German Timber Congress, we aim to once again provide a platform for new ideas, industry exchange, and networking with other partners from the forestry and timber construction sectors,” added Dr Lang.
“We are delighted that we have already been able to attract associations and other institutions as partners again in 2026 and intend to further strengthen this expansion along the value chain with the German Timber Congress.”
All information regarding the programme and registration can be found at www.holzkongress.de.
