The sawmilling and planing of wood industry in Belgium has exhibited variable trends in employment from 2013 to the present. The number of persons employed saw significant fluctuations, with a notable low in 2016, followed by an upward trend from 2019 to 2020. As of 2023, the sector employed approximately 2,020 individuals (1,000s).
Year-on-year changes reveal a volatile pattern with both declines and growth. Notable annual variations include a sharp increase in 2019 (+20.83%) and a steady decline in subsequent years (-0.2% in 2023). Over the past five years, the CAGR was approximately 4.48%, reflecting some recovery and stabilization in recent years.
Projected employment data from 2024 onwards suggests a slight decline with minimal variations, forecasting a 5-year CAGR of approximately -0.19%, indicating a near-stagnant growth rate into the future. Additionally, the overall 5-year growth rate is projected to decline by -0.94% by 2028.
Future trends to watch for:
- Impact of technological advancements and automation on employment levels.
- Shifts in demand for wood products within the domestic and international markets.
- Policy and regulatory changes within the forestry and logging sectors.
- Sustainability and eco-friendly practices influencing industry practices and employment.
