The commission said much of the output was delivered to England.

The 2011 Scottish timber harvest was also the highest ever recorded at 7.5 million m3 – up 500,00m3 on the previous year.

Timber prices were 2% higher in real terms compared to 2010, with favourable exchange rates helping Scottish businesses boost the home market as imports reduce.

Scottish environment and climate change minister Stewart Stevenson said the maturing of Scotland’s forests during the next 10-15 years would see further increases in harvesting.

"This should result in a steadier supply and bigger volumes of timber produced from Scotland’s forests," he said.

"This is an excellent position from which to build a stronger sector in the years to come."

The forestry sector contributes £670m each year to the Scottish economy and supports around 31,000 jobs, mainly in rural areas.