War-torn Ukraine boosts plywood exports by 38% to revive economy

Posted on October 14, 2024   |  

Ukraine's plywood exports rose by 38% in the first seven months of 2024, making it a major supplier to the EU.

Plywood now makes up over 97% of Ukraine's timber exports, with Poland (32%), the Netherlands (17%), the Czech Republic (9%), and Hungary (7%) being the top buyers.

Since Russia’s invasion, Ukraine’s forest industry has grown in value, with increased timber cutting to provide energy, military materials, pallets, and plywood for Europe.

Ongoing attacks on civilian infrastructure have led to higher demand for forest products for heating and rebuilding in Ukraine.

By July 2024, Ukraine exported more than 128,000 m³ of plywood to the EU, earning $107 million.

The average price per m³ of plywood was $836, a 19% decrease from the previous year.

Most of the growth came from higher exports to Poland (up 84%) and Hungary (up 92%).