Wood-based panels: Assopannelli raises alarm over rising production costs

Rising energy and raw material costs are once again causing concern across the Italian wood-based panel industry. Assopannelli, the association representing panel manufacturers within FederlegnoArredo, highlighted the challenges facing the sector during Sicam in Pordenone, drawing attention to the impact of increasing production costs on business competitiveness.

The figures presented by Assopannelli President Paolo Fantoni paint a particularly challenging picture. In the second half of the year, the cost of urea, used in production processes, increased by 51 per cent, while electricity and gas costs rose by 106 and 85 per cent respectively. These increases have a significant impact on an industry characterised by energy-intensive manufacturing processes.

Further pressure comes from rising prices for wood raw materials. Logs intended for chipping have recorded an increase of approximately 23 per cent, while pellet prices have risen by 35 per cent, adding to tensions in the raw material market.

According to Assopannelli, the simultaneous increase in these costs is making industrial operations increasingly difficult to manage, particularly in a market where manufacturers cannot necessarily pass on the full extent of rising costs to their customers. This situation is squeezing margins and risks reducing the resources available for investment.

“We operate in a global market, but we face costs that many of our non-European competitors do not have to bear,” Fantoni explained, stressing the need to address differences in energy costs and competitive conditions between European and non-European manufacturers.

Another key issue is the relationship between industrial competitiveness and environmental policies. According to the Assopannelli President, sustainability objectives must remain a priority, but they need to be supported by measures that help companies undertake the investments required for the ecological tr