Exports of timber products from the Vologda region to Turkey increased by 44%

Exports of timber products from Vologda Oblast to Turkey increased by 44%

    Turkey is increasing purchases of timber products from the Vologda region. From the beginning of the year to August 11, the North-Western Interregional Rosselkhoznadzor Department monitored more than 1 thousand shipments of lumber and sawn timber with a total volume of 52 thousand cubic meters, exported to Turkey. Compared to the same period last year, shipments increased by 44%.

Export structure: softwood lumber and products of deep processing

    The export was based on softwood lumber — 37 thousand cubic meters (71% of the total volume). In addition, they were shipped:

•     - birch veneer;
•     - glued timber;
•     - rounded logs;
•     - joinery.

The range is expanding: previously, lumber was mainly transported to Turkey, but now deep-processing products are being added. This indicates that Vologda producers are gradually shifting from exporting raw materials to products with higher added value.

Quality control and certification

    All quarantined products underwent laboratory tests at the Tver branch of the Federal State Budgetary Institution "VNIIZH" and were checked for compliance with the phytosanitary requirements of Turkey. This confirms that Vologda timber products comply with international standards and can freely enter the Turkish market.

Context: growth amid a general drop in exports

    The increase in shipments to Turkey comes against the background of a general drop in exports of timber products from Russia in the first half of 2026, when shipments decreased by almost 6.5%. The Turkish market, on the contrary, shows steady dynamics. Given that Turkey is actively increasing the construction sector and furniture production, the demand for Russian lumber is unlikely to decrease in the near future.

Key export indicators to Turkey:

Growth drivers

1. - Active development of the construction sector in Turkey. Turkey continues to implement major infrastructure and housing projects, which creates a steady demand for lumber.
2. - The growth of furniture production. The Turkish furniture industry is increasing its output both for the domestic market and for export, which increases the need for high-quality raw materials.
3. - Diversification of Russian exports. With falling supplies to China and Europe, Turkey is becoming one of the priorities for Russian timber producers.
4. - Expansion of the product range. The transition from raw lumber to products of deep processing (glued beams, joinery) allows to increase the added value of exports.

Constraints

    Whether Vologda producers will be able to keep up the pace depends not only on demand, but also on logistical constraints.:

• - Railway fares. An increase in the cost of transportation increases the cost of export products.
• - Availability of port facilities. Port congestion and limited shipping capacity can become a bottleneck.
• - Currency volatility. Fluctuations in the ruble exchange rate affect the price competitiveness of Russian exporters.
•  

Importance for the forestry industry

    The 44% increase in exports to Turkey is an important signal for the entire Russian forestry industry.:

1. - Diversification of sales markets. Turkey is becoming a real alternative to China and Europe, especially in the face of falling demand in traditional destinations.
2. - Transition to deep processing. The expansion of the range (veneer, glued beams, joinery) shows that Russian manufacturers are able to compete in the markets with high-value-added products.
3. - Steady demand. The Turkish market is showing steady growth, which makes it attractive for long-term cooperation.
4. - An example for other regions. The Vologda Region's experience in increasing exports to Turkey can be scaled up to other forest regions of Russia.
5.  

The prospects

    In the coming years, Turkey will remain one of the key markets for Russian timber products. To maintain and increase the growth rate, it is necessary:

•     - develop logistics infrastructure (railway tariffs, port facilities);
•     - expand the range of deep-processing products;
•     - strengthen business ties with Turkish partners;
•     - take advantage of mutual trade agreements.
•  

Result

    Exports of timber products from the Vologda Region to Turkey increased by 44% to 52 thousand cubic meters in 7.5 months of 2026. The growth is taking place against the background of a general decline in Russian exports and indicates the diversification of sales markets. Softwood lumber forms the basis of supplies, but the range of products of deep processing (veneer, glued beams, joinery) is actively expanding. The steady demand from the Turkish construction and furniture sector creates good prospects for further growth. However, in order to maintain momentum, logistical problems must be solved — railway tariffs and the availability of port facilities remain key constraints.

Tags: #Vologda region #export #Turkey #lumber #veneer #glued timber #forestry #Rosselkhoznadzor