70% harvesting requirement sparks concern across Russia’s forestry sector

Russia’s timber industry is pushing back against proposed regulatory changes that would tighten forest development requirements, warning that rigid standards risk deepening an already severe sectoral downturn. Major producers have appealed to lawmakers to soften a bill that would oblige forest leaseholders to harvest at least 70% of their allowable cut over a four-year period, regardless of regional conditions or operational constraints. The initiative, submitted in December 2025 by the Arkhangelsk Regional Assembly of Deputies, is expected to be considered by the State Duma during the spring session. Supporters of the proposal argue that it would unlock ...