Finnish forest industry production volumes approached pre-recession levels in the first half of 2010, according to the Finnish Forest Industry Federation (FFIF).

Almost 5 million m³ of sawn timber was produced during the period, with volumes picking up speed in tandem with strengthening demand.

FFIF said the value of forest industry production was more than €9.5bn in January-June, €3bn of which was generated by wood products.

The value of second quarter production (for all products) is forecast to have risen to €5.2bn, 50% more than the corresponding period of 2009.

Forest industry exports grew by 35% compared to a year ago.

“The Finnish forest industry has improved its competitiveness and profitability as well as strengthened its position in the recovering markets,” said FFIF director-general Timo Jaatinen.

“The effects of the structural change are beginning to show and competitive mills have been able to increase their production volumes as demand has risen.”