Forest owners in Central Finland enjoyed record revenues last year, when a total of EUR 604 million was collected from timber sales. The significant increase in revenues, EUR 157 million compared to the previous year, is the result of both an increase in the volume of timber sales and higher timber prices.
The growth in timber trade has been exceptionally strong in the region, bringing significant economic benefits to local forest owners. Not only has the volume of timber trade increased, but also the price of timber has risen, contributing to record revenues. The combined effect of these factors has provided forest owners with significant economic benefits.
Jämsä has emerged as the largest beneficiary of timber sales in the region, generating a total of €59 million from timber sales in private forests. This significant economic boost helps the municipality of Jämsä and its residents to develop the local economy and maintain infrastructure.
Other municipalities in Central Finland, such as Joutsa, Jyväskylä and Viitasaari, have also received substantial sums, each over €30 million. Hankasalmi, Keuruu and Saarijärvi have been slightly smaller beneficiaries, each collecting just under €30 million. In these municipalities, the proceeds from timber trade are an important source of income, supporting the local economy and creating jobs.
Äänekoski and Karstula each accounted for more than €20 million, indicating that the economic benefits of the timber trade are relatively widely distributed across the different parts of Central Finland, thus supporting the balanced development of the regional economy.
Overall, private forests generated €293 million in timber sales revenues, compared to €117 million from other owners. Private forest sales revenues are clearly higher, underlining the important role of forest owners in the region's timber trade and economy.
In building such a timber market, with record revenues, it is also important to take into account the harvesting and transport costs associated with selling timber. The total amount paid to logging and harvesting contractors for contracting services was €101 million, which covers the costs of harvesting and reflects the importance of harvesting as part of the timber trade process.
The €87 million paid to transporters covers the cost of transporting the timber, an important logistical step to ensure that the timber moves from the forests to the industry. Transport costs are such a large part of the total cost of the timber trade, but they are vital for the smooth running of the timber sales process.
In summary, the timber trade in the Central Finland region has achieved record results, bringing significant economic benefits to its forest owners and municipalities. The harvesting and transport sectors have also benefited, as they have received substantial amounts in contracting fees, which contributes to local employment and economic growth.
