Assopannelli, Fantoni confirmed as Chairman: 'Priority for the European files'

Paolo Fantoni has been re-elected as president of Assopannelli for the quadrennium 2026–2030. The decision was made during the general assembly of the association, which represents companies producing panels, plywood, and semi-finished wood products within FederlegnoArredo. Fantoni emphasized the importance of strengthening the association’s presence on key European policy issues, pushing for regulatory simplification while maintaining sustainability goals. He also highlighted the need to fully leverage national wood resources and the sector's expertise in recycling, alongside exploring new growth opportunities through internationalization and stronger commercial protections for Italian businesses. The wood panel industry plays a strategic role in Italy's circular economy, valued at more than €2.3 billion. In 2025, the sector saw a 2% increase compared to the previous year. Domestic production accounted for 58% of total output, rising by 3% to exceed €1.3 billion. Exports reached €979 million, up 1.1%, with mixed performance among product categories: some sectors such as plywood and panels declined, while others like chipboards, sawn boards, and MDF showed positive trends. Imports increased significantly by 14%, reaching €1.4 billion in 2025, surpassing domestic production levels. Industrial production of panels remained stable in January-May 2026, increasing slightly by 0.8%, despite overall wood industry decline of 4.6%. Prices stayed largely unchanged, rising just 0.6%, though the broader wood industry experienced sharp price increases of 3.7%, driven mainly by raw material costs. At the assembly, discussions focused on major legislative files, including the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and the EU Digital Product Passport (EUDR). These proposals were delayed until 2026, and certain simplifications have already been achieved in response to demands from the federation and other stakeholders. Assopannelli plans to continue working closely with the European Panel Federation, the main representative body for the wooden panel sector, to contribute to debates on key regulatory matters affecting business competitiveness. Another priority for the association includes reviving poplar cultivation through a new agreement signed in September 2025 with five regions in the Po Valley. This initiative aims to enhance national self-sufficiency in raw materials. Additionally, efforts will focus on obtaining recognition for geographical indications for products derived from wood. On the end-of-waste front, the association continues its commitment to protecting Italy's highly efficient wood recycling system, emphasizing the crucial role of companies in transitioning toward a more circular economy. Fantoni concluded his remarks by acknowledging the challenges ahead, stating that they are significant but manageable thanks to teamwork and the dedication of FederlegnoArredo. He noted that these collaborative efforts allow the voices of member companies to be heard at institutional tables, helping to defend the sector's competitiveness and promote a versatile and sustainable resource like wood. In October, the fifth edition of the Master in Sensorial Surface Design will begin, organized in collaboration with the Politecnico di Milano to address growing demand for skills related to surfaces, Cmf design, interiors, and more.