Austrian sawmill industry: EUDR a threat to production

Austria’s sawmill industry has managed to stabilize sales and production despite a tough economic environment, according to DI Markus Schmölzer, chairman of the Austrian Sawmill Industry, speaking at the International Wood Day 2025. Rising costs for energy, raw materials, and labor, combined with weak overall economic conditions, continue to weigh on the sector. Schmölzer called for improved economic policies, including lower ancillary labor costs and competitive energy prices. Franz Teuschler, chairman of the Austrian Timber Trade Association, noted mixed developments for the timber trade. Lower interest rates have slightly boosted construction, particularly larger projects, while demand ...