Development of forestry and related sectors 2015-2020.

Forests and the forestland are among the main national natural resources. The area of forests and the timber resources stored therein are not decreasing, but continue to increase, thus increasing the positive impact of forests on the national economy. The timber production forms a significant part of the national economy, and the forest sector is one of the most important sectors thereof. Forest products are tangible (timber (wood as a raw material and energy resource), mushrooms, berries, etc.) and intangible (forest biodiversity, recreational opportunities and services, mainly the protective functions of the forest, etc.).
The state administration of the forest sector, with the means at its disposal, creates conditions for achieving the common goals of the Forest Policy. Since 2000, the regulatory function specified in the Forest Policy has been performed by the Ministry of Agriculture, the supervisory function - the Ministry of Forestry.
Information about forestry activities that have taken place in the forest is compiled in the state information system - the State Forest Register (SFR). The State Forest Service maintains information in the SFR about all inventoried forests, as well as monitors forest management, use and compliance with regulatory enactments governing hunting in all Latvian forests and ensures the issuance of permits, certificates, licenses, and certifications related to forestry and hunting.
The extraction of non-wood forest products is an important part of the rural economy, especially for the self-sufficiency of individual households. Picking mushrooms and berries, as well as walking or sporting activities in the forest, are traditionally part of the lifestyle of the Latvian population.
Residents have free access to state and municipal forests, but in private forests the owner may restrict access, which is rarely imposed.
The implementation of this Policy document will make a significant contribution to the development of a smart, sustainable and inclusive economy and to the achievement of at least six thematic objectives: (a) investing in research, innovation and skills for the bioeconomy; (b) improving markets and competitiveness in bioeconomy sectors: increasing primary production in a sustainable way, transforming waste streams into value-added products, establishing mutual learning mechanisms to improve production and resource efficiency, creating jobs and growth; (c) closer policy coordination and stakeholder engagement, contributing to research, technological development and strengthening innovation; (d) improving the competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises; (e) supporting the transition to a low-carbon economy; (f) promoting the efficient use of resources and protecting the environment; (g) promoting employment, especially at the regional level, and (h) providing for investments in education, skills and lifelong learning.