Bucharest, August 18, 2025 - The reform proposed for the National Forest Administration - Romsilva has triggered a strong backlash from the Forestry Trade Union Federation SILVA, which contests the draft Government Decision and announced nationwide protests. Union leaders argue that the reform contains “numerous legal and administrative errors” and lacks proper consultation with the forestry sector. They demand the project`s withdrawal, an end to the discrediting campaign, and the creation of a working group with forestry experts, the ministry, professional organizations, and unions.

A protest is scheduled for Wednesday, August 20, 2025, between 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, at the headquarters of the Ministry of Environment, Waters and Forests.

The reform proposes shutting down 70% of county forestry directorates, focusing mainly on “economically efficient” activities while disregarding social and ecological roles. Around 500 forestry jobs are at risk. Romania`s Ministry of Justice has already rejected the draft on legal grounds, requiring major revisions.

Challenges in Romania`s Wood Industry. Beyond the reform conflict, the Romanian wood industry faces legislative and economic blockages. In the Apuseni Mountains, pest-damaged timber reached 300,000 m³ in 2025, double the 150,000 m³ recorded in 2023 – clear evidence of poor forest management. In 2023, production in the timber industry dropped by 24%, while the furniture industry shrank by 13%.
The forestry and wood-processing sector contributes 3.5% to Romania`s GDP and secures 150,000 jobs, but administrative bottlenecks and unfair timber pricing are eroding competitiveness.

Despite these issues, the growth potential is remarkable. If resource use is optimized, Romania`s wood industry could:

- Increase exports by up to EUR 1 billion
- Generate thousands of new jobs
- Bring substantial tax revenues to the national budget.

Currently, only 8 million m³ of timber are processed industrially, leaving significant untapped potential.

Key Trends, Forecasts, and Implications:

- Legal and social risks: The contested reform restructures Romsilva without an impact study and without social consultation, creating risks for sector stability and sustainable forest management.
- Impact on supply chains: Closing forestry departments could disrupt raw material supply for wood processors and intensify existing problems from rigid regulations.
- Economic pressure: Administrative blockages and non-transparent reforms reduce the industry`s ability to react quickly to forestry crises.
- Opportunities: Cutting bureaucracy, using pest-damaged timber, and investing in green value chains could strengthen exports, create jobs, and boost Romania`s role in the European wood market.

B2B portals like WoodBusinessPortal.com are becoming essential for professionals in the wood, forestry, and furniture industries. They provide:

- Updated market data – timber prices, import/export volumes, industry trends.
- Sector insights – articles, market analysis, and economic forecasts.
- B2B networking – connecting suppliers, buyers, and consultants.
- Strategic support – reliable data for managing crises, adapting to reforms, and maximizing resource value.

The Romsilva reform in its current form generates serious tensions in Romania`s forestry sector due to legal flaws, social risks, and economic challenges. Yet, the Romanian wood industry has strong potential for revitalization through efficient policies and digital tools. Platforms like WoodBusinessPortal.com can act as strategic allies, offering professionals access to information, connections, and opportunities for sustainable growth.

Sources:
1. news.ro
2. curierulnational.ro
3. g4media.ro