The paper analyses the performance of the Slovenian wood sector, focusing on sectors C16 (wood and wood product manufacturing) and C31 (furniture manufacturing), in comparison with the wider EU. The wood industry represents a significant part of the Slovenian economy, contributing around 1.7% of GDP and providing substantial employment. Despite recent growth, the sector faces challenges related to low productivity, particularly in the furniture segment. The analysis is based on Eurostat, AJPES, and firm-level survey data. Key findings indicate underinvestment in intangible assets (knowledge, innovation, digitization), weak inter-firm collaboration, and limited strategic orientation. The study highlights critical trends – digitalization, climate change, sustainability, and the circular economy – and emphasizes the need for enhanced investments in technology, design, and workforce development. Improving competitiveness requires firm cooperation, new business models, a focus on innovation, and systemic policies to support investment. The paper recommends strengthening R&D, increasing the use of digital tools, and building a more supportive institutional framework to enable structural transformation and sustainable growth of the wood processing industry in Slovenia.
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