Full Confidence In Future Of NZ Wood Processing

While times are undeniably tough, the Wood Processors' Association today expressed confidence in the future of the industry.

"Any time jobs are lost it is tough for everyone. As an industry we are working hard to rebuild the sector towards a future where we offer more, not less, jobs to New Zealanders " said Wood Processors' Association CEO Dr Jon Tanner.

Wood processors currently employ around 18,000 kiwi workers and are responsible for producing 6.4% of New Zealand's exports. The operations are generally in the regions where alternate employment can be hard to find.

"We need at this point to look to the future, and as we come in to the 2011 year there are a number of programmes under way to return Wood Processing to its position as one of this countries strongest employers".

The wider Forestry Industry, led by WoodCo, has been working together with the Ministry on understanding the best way forward for the Industry as a whole. The joint ForestWood conference in November this year saw the industry come together, looking at opportunities across the entire value chain.

“This sort of work takes time and there are no silver bullets, but effective public / private partnerships are an important element of success”.

As an example, WPA is working closely with Crown Research Institutes to reinvigorate the scientific backbone of the sector, with the intent of finding ways to boost productivity through innovation and rapid technology transfer.

Furthermore, the Association's work with industry training associations continues to be key to the sector's growth, providing skilled workers to go hand in hand with technological development, though the Government needs more focus on vocational training support to accelerate productivity in the Forestry Sector.

"We see a future where New Zealand wood products move up the value chain, earning a premium on global markets as sustainable, high quality, and consistent merchandise".

"I believe the industry, our suppliers, and the Government are united in working towards this vision".

ENDS

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