Since invading Ukraine in February 2022, Russia has illegally exported half a million cubic metres of timber – worth €1.5 billion – to Europe, according to De Tijd on Wednesday, citing research by the British NGO Earthsight.
Among these exports, 142 trucks carrying birch wood, equivalent to nearly 5,000 cubic metres, were sent to Belgium, with a market value of €14.8 million.
Russian timber imports have been banned since July 2022 as part of a round of EU sanctions.
However, since the invasion, over 700 cubic metres have crossed the borders or arrived at European ports daily.
The largest volumes are destined for Poland, followed by Spain, Portugal, Italy and Estonia. However, Russian wood is also easily reaching Belgium.
Birch wood, in particular, is highly sought after for its layering, durability and lack of cavities.
