March 21 marks the International Day of Forests. This year, the global focus is on the link between forests and the economy, highlighting their vital role in economic growth, job creation, and the transition to a sustainable bioeconomy, according to the Bulgarian Branch Chamber of Woodworking and Furniture Industry (BBCWFI).
Globally, around 1.6 billion people depend on forests, with timber providing income, jobs, and livelihoods for those working in the sector.
In Bulgaria, forests cover nearly 39% of the country’s territory. Over the past 60 years, timber reserves have tripled, while forested areas have expanded by almost 23%. Bulgaria ranks first in the EU in terms of protected areas and has already met the requirements of the EU Forest Strategy for 2030 and the Biodiversity Strategy. for 2030. Despite its relatively small size, this country is also among Europe’s leaders in biodiversity. According to the BBCWFI, 48% of Bulgaria’s forests are coppice forests, 15% are coniferous plantations, 13% are natural coniferous stands, and 24% are broadleaf high forests.
The forestry and forest-based industries—including wood processing and furniture manufacturing—employ more than 67,000 people, ranging from engineers and designers to foresters and loggers. Together, these sectors contribute about 3% of the country’s GDP. “The potential of our industry could double with proper and effective forest management. Unfortunately, the sector has been in decline in recent years,” said Petar Dishkov, a forester by training and expert at the BBCWFI.
Over the past year, only about 70% of planned forestry activities have been carried out. Around 42% of forest growth is being harvested, compared to a European average of 70–75%. Tending operations have been implemented at a rate of just 39%.
Ineffective management has led to increased forest damage and disease, while forest fires are becoming more frequent, more widespread, and harder to control.
Timber harvests in 2025 are expected to reach a record low. According to the latest data from the Executive Forest Agency (EFA), the volume of timber transported from temporary storage facilities last year reached only 80% of what was planned under the forest management plan. Moreover, this figure is 30% lower than in 2018, the last year in which planned targets were fully met, the BBCWFI said earlier this year.
