Oct 05, 2004. /Lesprom Network/. Europe, North America and Russia increased timber consumption 1.3% in 2003, according to the data made public by United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE). The consumption growth was initiated by the increase in housing construction in the US and the growth of timber exports to China and Japan. Boards and veneer production increased in Russia (+17%), Central and Eastern Europe – (+14%), Western Europe (+4%), North America (+1%). Analysts witness tough competition in the sector. Paper consumption in UNECE countries increased 5%. Paper consumption in Central, Eastern Europe and Russia increased 12%. Paper consumption continued to decline in Western Europe and in North America. The main factor boosting the development of timber sector in UNECE countries is the certification of timber in order to combat illegal logging. This tendency forced professional and environmental organizations to work out a number of measures to fight illegal timber and timber products trade.