Development of Digital Services, European Integration, and a New National Park: Viktor Smal on the Forestry Sector in 2026

This year, the forestry sector will continue its course toward systemic transformation and will work on increasing the availability of raw materials for domestic wood-processing enterprises.

«Under the conditions of war, resource shortages, landmines, and the temporary occupation of certain territories, the sector faces an extremely difficult task – to supply Ukrainian wood-processing enterprises with raw materials without violating environmental commitments. The key principle is to balance business needs with forest conservation», - explained the Head of the State Forest Resources Agency, Viktor Smal.

He added that one of the priorities for 2026 remains preparation for the implementation of the European EUDR regulation, which will come into force in 2027. In particular, a draft law on EUDR is to be submitted to Parliament, incorporating sectoral developments and government regulations.

«2026 has been defined as the final full preparatory year before transitioning to close-to-nature forestry. A central role in this process will be played by the Ukrainian State Forest Inventory Enterprise (‘Ukrderzhlisproekt’), which will significantly intensify its work. At the same time, reforms of the forest planning system will be considered, including the potential involvement of private organizations with qualified specialists», - the Head of the Agency noted.

According to him, another important task will be the development of a unified inspection protocol for the forestry sector. After the end of martial law, this will allow supervision and control to be restored and enable an objective assessment of compliance by all forest users.

«In the field of digitalization, 2026 will serve as a testing year for the new exporter’s e-office and the next version of the electronic timber tracking system. It is expected to ensure full traceability of timber flows – not only before but also after exchange trading, which will significantly change market control rules», - Viktor Smal emphasized.

Another important milestone will be the establishment of the first national natural park in the Kirovohrad region – the «Chornyi Lis» National Nature Park, which is planned to be created in the summer of 2026.

In the hunting sector, a key step will be the development and approval of a unified methodology for counting game animals. This will form the basis for effective wildlife and hunting management.

«2026 should become a year of practical testing of new tools and the completion of key reforms. The sector is entering this period with a clear understanding of its goals and the expectation that all tasks will be accomplished through joint efforts», - the Head of the State Forest Resources Agency concluded.