WPMA outlines priorities for a stronger, high‑value wood sectorFriday 10 Apr 2026
Representing a sector that employs more than 38,000 people and generates over $5 billion in combined export and domestic sales, WPMA says New Zealand has a significant opportunity to expand high‑value wood manufacturing, boost the economy, and reduce emissions through greater use of low‑carbon wood products. WPMA is urging the next Government to act decisively to unlock this potential. WPMA’s priorities include a national commitment to shifting from raw log exports to value‑added wood products, supported by regulatory settings that encourage long‑term investment, innovation, and the development of emerging forest bio‑products such as biofuels and biomaterials. The Association also highlights the need for robust inspection procedures to ensure imported timber meets New Zealand’s performance and sustainability standards. Improving market access is another key focus. WPMA is calling for trade policies that open doors for high‑value wood products, support for export‑growth programmes, the removal of trade barriers, and ratification of the New Zealand–India Free Trade Agreement. Domestically, the sector needs infrastructure that enables growth—reliable transport networks, regional processing hubs, consistent environmental regulations, and long‑term access to affordable energy and fuel. WPMA also supports the expansion of accelerated depreciation settings to encourage investment in new technology and equipment. The Association is also advocating for wood to play a larger role in New Zealand’s building and construction sector. This includes support for wood‑option policies, government procurement that recognises the benefits of locally processed low‑carbon wood products and building code modernisation to enable wider adoption of mass timber solutions. Finally, WPMA emphasises the importance of workforce development, calling for long‑term vocational training pathways, immigration settings that address skill shortages, and continued industry-government collaboration to ensure safe, modern workplaces. View the full Manifesto Source: WPMA | ||
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