Limited logs, weak export demand: Latvia’s timber sector loses pace

Latvia’s timber sector is showing signs of stagnation, with companies reporting slower growth, constrained production and mounting operational pressure. Exports have remained largely unchanged in recent years at just over €3.3bn, reflecting weaker construction activity in Europe and limited expansion. Domestic constraints are becoming more visible. Poor forest road infrastructure continues to restrict access to raw materials, particularly during seasonal closures, when large parts of the network become impassable. This limits the ability to increase harvesting volumes and forces companies to build reserves to keep mills running. Producers are also calling for clarity on forest policy ...