Facing an acute shortage of skilled labor, Finland’s forestry sector is urgently calling for the recruitment of more foreign workers to sustain critical operations in forest management, harvesting, and timber transport.

A new report by consultancy firm Tapio warns that without immediate international recruitment and expanded English-language vocational training, the industry risks stagnation amid an ageing workforce and heightened environmental demands.

Finland struggles to find skilled forestry workers

Forestry consultancy Tapio warned in a report on April 23rd that Finland needs to hire 1,000 new forestry workers every year. This is to replace the aging workforce and the shrinking number of skilled workers.

If the country does not act soon, forest management, timber harvesting, and transport could come to a stop.

“The current workforce is aging and not being replaced quickly enough. Without practical solutions, including international recruitment, the industry risks stagnation,” the report cautioned.

Industry leaders call for state-supported training

Tapio proposes a bold plan: short-term, state-funded vocational training for seasonal workers. The training would focus on safety, forestry skills, and adapting to Finnish work culture.

This practical approach aims to prepare foreign workers faster and more effectively.

Many skilled foreign residents already living in Finland cannot join the forestry sector because of language barriers. Tapio suggests offering forestry courses in English to give them better chances at finding work.

Growing climate pressures add to industry challenges

Beyond labor shortages, Finland’s forestry industry is under growing environmental pressure. Recent studies show that Finnish forests take in less carbon than experts thought. This has led to stronger calls for climate-friendly forestry practices.

The Climate Panel urges reduced logging to help meet emission goals. As forestry methods change, the need for skilled workers grows. Finland needs foresters who know how to manage forests sustainably while balancing environmental and economic needs.

Private sector joins forces to push for reforms

Tapio compiled the report with Metsäteho, a research and development company owned by forestry organizations. Funding came from the Metsämiesten Säätiö foundation. 

heir joint effort highlights the urgent need for collaboration between the public and private sectors.

Without investment in workforce development, industry leaders warn that Finland risks losing its competitive edge. Forestry has long been a backbone of Finland’s economy, supplying vital exports and supporting rural communities. 

Protecting this legacy requires swift, strategic action.

Shifting opportunities for travelers and migrants

Short-term visitors who want seasonal work in Finland may soon find it easier to get forestry jobs as the country adjusts to fill labor gaps.

The change could help many travelers applying under the new European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), which is launching soon. ETIAS will make pre-screening simpler for visa-exempt travelers, helping industries meet urgent labor needs more quickly.

At the same time, migrants looking for longer-term jobs may benefit from easier language rules and more English-language training programs. These updates suggest that moving skilled workers across EU borders will become faster and more efficient.

Emerging policies may reshape immigration

The urgent demand for forestry workers is pushing EU countries to rethink their immigration policies. Countries like Finland may push for easier visa rules, wider recognition of foreign qualifications, and focused hiring programs.

These talks could lead to changes in the Schengen visa system, making it easier for skilled non-EU workers to move across borders.

The forestry shortage also points to a bigger issue: labor gaps are forcing Europe to weigh strict border controls against the need to keep its economy strong.

New policies from these debates could permanently change how Europe brings in and supports foreign workers.

Finland’s forest face a crossroads

As Finland’s forestry sector faces an aging workforce and growing climate pressures, experts say hiring workers from abroad is now essential.

Consultancy firm Tapio calls for quick action through state-funded training programs and English-language courses to bring in and keep foreign workers.

Without strong steps, key work like forest management, harvesting, and transport could slow down. The risk affects not just the economy but also the long-term care of Finland’s forests.