Woodknowledge Wales welcomes the launch of the Welsh Government’s Timber Industrial Strategy (TIS) – a landmark step towards a greener, fairer and more resilient Wales. As long-time collaborators in its development, we are proud to support this national vision for unlocking the full social, environmental and economic potential of Welsh timber.
As part of a Welsh Government commitment to create a timber-based industrial strategy that can develop and sustain the high-value production and processing of Welsh wood, officials working across Welsh Government, supported by a Timber Industrial Strategy Working Group, developed a series of proposals to put to consultation. This strategy is the result of years of collaboration with Woodknowledge Wales and Confor, and follows a public consultation:
🔗 Timber Industrial Strategy | GOV.WALES
The strategy will be launched on Tuesday 22 July 2025. It delivers against the priorities set out in Woodlands for Wales, the Welsh Government’s long-term strategy for woodlands and trees.
The Timber Industrial Strategy (TIS) was formulated in the context of:
- Forestry productivity being impacted by climate change
- The need to secure future timber supply amid rising global demand
- Opportunities for green jobs and growth
- Timber’s unique role in sustainable housebuilding
The strategy is structured under six priorities:
- Increasing timber supply
- Increasing resilience in our forests
- Resource efficiency and circular economy
- Instilling confidence in demand
- Developing sector capacity
- Underpinned by behaviour change
The TIS contributes to a prosperous Wales by enhancing rural and urban economic opportunities, adding value across supply chains, and supporting innovation. It supports a Resilient Wales by encouraging biodiverse, climate-adapted forestry practices. The strategy further promotes a Healthier Wales through the use of timber in construction and public health benefits of woodland access.
Priority 5 focuses on education, skills, and recruitment, aiming to make careers in the timber and forestry sector more accessible and inclusive – promoting a More Equal Wales.
By growing opportunities in rural and Welsh-speaking communities, the strategy strengthens Cohesive Communities and supports a Wales of vibrant culture and thriving Welsh language, recognising that 43% of those that already work within the sector are Welsh speakers.
Finally, the TIS promotes a Globally Responsible Wales, emphasising sustainable sourcing, circular economy practices, and increased domestic supply to reduce reliance on imported timber.
Gary Newman, Chief Executive of Woodknowledge Wales, said:
“This is a bold and timely strategy that recognises timber not just as a material, but as a driver of climate action, economic resilience, and rural regeneration. We look forward to working with Welsh Government and our partners across the supply chain to put this strategy into practice – and to ensure that Welsh wood works for Wales in every sense.”
“We encourage all stakeholders – from forest owners and processors to designers, developers, and educators – to explore the strategy and get involved in its implementation. Woodknowledge Wales will continue to provide support for the delivery of the strategy by inspiring and connecting stakeholders from across the natural and built environments as well as through sector leading reports and guidance.”
Enquiries about the strategy: pren.timber@gov.wales
