Log prices across Europe remain elevated, eroding sawmill profitability as lumber markets fail to keep pace. Mills in several countries report mounting pressure from input costs, with some operating at losses despite steady demand in certain segments. In France, softwood log prices reached record levels in late August even as lumber sales weakened, widening the gap between raw material costs and product revenues. In Finland, spruce standing-sale logs averaged around €86/m³ in June. Although some easing was reported later in the summer, the cost base remains historically high and weighs on profitability heading into autumn.  ...