Global production of wood products in 2016 totalled 467 million m³ of sawnwood, 415 million m³ of wood-based panels and 409 million tonnes of paper & paperboard (Table 9.5).

Europe produced around one third (33%) of all sawnwood in 2016 (mainly in EU countries), with around one quarter (28%) produced in North & Central America and a further quarter (28%) in Asia.  Overall, sawnwood production increased by 3% between 2015 and 2016, driven by increases in most regions.

Wood-based panels were more commonly produced in Asia, accounting for around three fifths (62%) of global production in 2016.  Around one fifth (20%) were produced in Europe (mainly EU countries) and 12% in North & Central America.  At a global level, wood-based panel production increased by 4% between 2015 and 2016, mainly driven by a 5% increase in Asia.

Asia also accounted for almost one half (47%) of paper and paperboard production in 2016, with around one quarter (25%) in Europe and a further 22% in North & Central America.  Overall, paper and paperboard production in 2016 was similar to the level in 2015.

Table 9.5 Production of wood products by region, 1990-2016

^{Source: FAO.} 

^Notes:

^{1. Cyprus is included in EU-28 total but is part of FAO’s Asia region.}

These figures are outside the scope of National Statistics.  For further information see the Sources chapter.

Additional resources

Sources chapter: International Forestry