The two pie charts compare the percentage distribution of the world’s forests and global timber production among six different regions in the year 2010.
Overall, although South America and Russia contained the largest shares of the world’s forests, Russia dominated global timber production. Additionally, some regions, such as Europe and Asia/Oceania, contributed more significantly to timber output relative to their forest area.
To begin with, South America accounted for the largest portion of the world’s forests at 26.5%, closely followed by Russia with 24.2%. North America also held a substantial share, comprising 21.9% of the total forest area. In contrast, South Africa and Asia/Oceania had smaller proportions, at 13.2% and 9.2% respectively, while Europe had the least forest cover at just 5%.
In contrast, Russia led the world in timber production, contributing 37.5%, significantly higher than its forest share. Asia/Oceania and Europe also produced relatively more timber at 14.3% and 19.5% respectively. Meanwhile, South America and North America, despite having substantial forest areas, contributed less to timber production—15% and 12.4% respectively. South Africa’s share also declined to 11.2% in timber production.