Why are forests important to the economy of Belarus?

Forests are a vital component of the Belarusian economy, covering nearly two-fifths of the country's land area. Their economic importance is primarily driven by two sectors:1

• Industrial Production: The forestry sector is actively exploited for the manufacturing of wood and paper products.1
• Tourism: Forests contribute to the growing tourism industry. The Belovezhskaya Forest serves as one of the most frequently visited destinations in the country, helping to generate revenue through visitor activities.2