Plantation forestry is on the verge of a new era on the global scene due to predicted future supply and demand imbalances. As the world leader in plantation forestry, with the best growing conditions, relatively short rotation cycles, the most advanced silvilculture (tending) regimes and management techniques, and with extensive knowledge through research and development, New Zealand is in an ideal position to take advantage of future global markets.

World Demand Increasing

• Population growth - 7.2 billion by 2010
• Per Capita use increase - higher standard of living
• 50% increase in demand 1991-2010

World Supply Decreasing

• Environmental pressure
• Scarcity
• Non sustainable
• Harvesting - more expensive and difficult

Pacific Rim

• Radiata Pine will be New Zealand's biggest export commodity by 2010
• Fastest growing demand in the world
• Projected supply deficit of 74 million m3 by early next century

Breakdown of World Productive Forest Area
source - NZ Forest Industries Council

Plantation Forests - 8%
Indigenous Forests - 92%