Forest industry perspectives in Southeast Asia

Abstract

The essay gives a brief introduction to the general geography, population, economic development and forest resource situation in Southeast Asia. The forest products of the region, both timber and minor forest products, are considered in some detail, whilst the main body (five chapters) of the essay is devoted to detailing the size, distribution and level of technology of the various forest industries. Sawmilling, veneer and plywood production, board-mill processing and the pulp and paper industry are considered in separate chapters. The concluding perspectives outline the need for development of general and industrial infrastructure and for regional co-operation in forest industry planning, as well, giving a brief insight into the effects of the forest industries on the forest resources of Southeast Asia.