Diesel prices across the EU have risen by 34% since the end of 2025, adding hundreds of euros to long-distance timber movements and widening the cost gap between competing production regions. A new analysis by Global Wood Markets Info (GWMI) shows how the increase is moving through Europe’s wood supply chain at a time when weak construction demand leaves mills little room to pass higher logistics costs to customers.

Europe’s wood industry has entered another transport cost crisis. The EU’s weighted average diesel price reached €2.04/litre at the end of August, compared with €1.52/litre at the end of December 2025. The increase of almost €0.52/litre affects an industry in which raw material is heavy, geographically dispersed and frequently moved several times before reaching the final customer.