The For Forest Group+ of forested EU countries has again grown stronger as Germany joined the group at the meeting held in Sweden on 31 March–1 April. The topics discussed by the ministers included the EU Deforestation and LULUCF Regulations, the Birds Directive, and the development of criteria and indicators for sustainable forest management.
Minister of Agriculture and Forestry Sari Essayah will visit Morocco from 24 to 27 March 2026. The purpose of the trip is to strengthen bilateral relations and promote trade with Morocco, especially in forest and water expertise. Minister Essayah will be accompanied by a business delegation focusing on these matters.
In 2025, about 6,600 hectares of forest habitats were protected under the Forest Biodiversity Programme for Southern Finland METSO. Last year Finnish forest owners protected permanently about 3,200 hectares of forest and concluded ten-year environmental forestry subsidy agreements concerning about 3,400 hectares. The area covered by nature management works was about 180 hectares.
The European Partnership ‘Forests and Forestry for a Sustainable Future’ brings together about 100 organisations from 28 countries to develop forest research and strengthen international cooperation. Finland acts as the coordinator of the project, with the work led by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry.
On Monday 26 May, Minister of Agriculture and Forestry Sari Essayah and two Members of the European Commission opened the New Wood exhibition in Brussels where Finland showcases bioeconomy solutions based on wood and the country’s strong competence and skills.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry steers the policy on sustainable use of natural resources. Legislative work is carried out as part of the Finnish Government and the EU institutions and decision-making.
The administrative sector touches upon the everyday life of the Finns in various ways, in both work and leisure. The objective of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry is to create and maintain the preconditions for sustainable and diversified use of renewable natural resources. The Ministry steers both the use of natural resources and research in the sector.
