High productivity yields better results 

The Finnish forest industry has earlier enjoyed a productivity lead over its competitors. The lead is primarily based on a high rate of investment and the application of the most advanced technologies. Investments and growth are now curtailed by the long distance separating Finland from the large, growing markets as well as the availability and price of raw materials.

Additionally, the competitiveness of Finnish companies has suffered because costs here have risen at a faster rate than in competing countries.

Competence and innovation promote competitiveness

The success of the Finnish forest industry in the global economy will hinge on our ability to regenerate. A determined effort to strengthen competence and innovativeness will require commitment from industry companies as well as public investment in research and development activities.

New products and services that have been developed to answer the needs of customers even better than before provide a good starting point for success in worldwide competition.

Operating practices in need of an overhaul

The profitability of the forest industry must improve in order for corporations to be able to provide manufacturing jobs, which are vital also in Finland. Modern operating practices must be adopted by the sector to enable it to respond to the needs of customers swiftly and profitably.

In addition to the diverse development of the competence and proficiency of employees, modernisation includes the procurement of manufacturing support services from external providers as well as the adoption of flexible work practices.

Energy, raw materials and transports are important factors for success

Finnish energy policy has a major impact on the competitiveness of the forest industry. The availability and price of energy, emissions trading and whether wood raw material is produced for manufacturing or energy use will affect the future success of the forest industry. If sufficient energy is available, basic industry can invest in Finland. Also, wood should be processed into products first and burned to generate energy only at the end of its lifecycle.

The Finnish forest industry’s production volumes and demand for wood are growing. The pulp, paper and wood products industries require a stable supply of wood at a competitive price.

Looking after the growth of forests creates new sustainable utilisation opportunities for future generations. Cooperation between forest owners, the authorities and the industry is needed to get domestic timber on the market to satisfy the needs of the manufacturing sector. Care must be taken to simultaneously protect natural values in commercial forests especially; in this, Finland is a pioneer.

The forest industry needs all of the transport networks in Finland: rail, road and sea transports are all necessary. Transport alternatives must be developed constantly and traffic routes made sturdy enough to withhold also heavy transports. The good condition of the forest road network must be safeguarded to ensure the steady supply of raw materials.