Cluster analysis in primary roundwood production of 25 countries of European Union

Abstract

Main objective of this research is the effects of the political and economic enlargement of Europe in the market of wood products, especially for primary production of conifers and broadleaves round timber. The research consists in the application of the hierarchical cluster analysis to classify the 25 member countries, based on the roundwood coniferous and non-coniferous production during the period 1992-2002. Valuable conclusions came out regarding the market changes due to the participation of the new member states in E.U., which finally strengthen the wood and wood products European trade. Many of these new member states are covered by extended forested areas and they contribute significantly to both coniferous and non coniferous round wood European production. The entrance of the new ten member states, combined with the sustainable management of the forest resources, contributes to strengthen the EU timber production, exploiting internal productions but also to promote sustainable forest management and conservation for every country.