The European wood-based panel industry reported modest growth in 2024, with production rising 2.7% to 58.1 million m³, according to the European Panel Federation (EPF) Annual Report 2024–2025. This marks a recovery from a 6.2% decline in 2023.
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Final figures show particleboard production increased 1.5% to 31.3 million m³, MDF rose 1.9% to 11.3 million m³, and OSB climbed 5% to 7.1 million m³.
At the EPF AGM in Berlin on 27 June, EPF board member Stefan Zinn described current conditions as "very challenging", highlighting the need for clearer industry support. Holger Lösch, from the Federation of German Industries, criticised EU regulations as overreaching, stating they "perform gymnastics" and "ruin innovation".
New EPF managing director Matti Rantanen reported building permits rose by 14% in late 2024 and 5% in early 2025. He said private consumption is the current growth driver, and the construction sector is beginning to stabilise, supported by improving affordability, rising real wages and falling interest rates.
While economic sentiment remains weak, the industry sees signs of a turning point, particularly in housing, following a prolonged downturn in furniture and construction demand.
Source: www.globalwood.org
