Jan 27, 2004. /Lesprom Network/. Russian Bashkortostan republic timber, timber-processing and pulp and paper industry physical volume index reached 114,5% in 2003 making RUR 491 million, Bashkortostan republican state statistics committee reported. Experts claim the drastic production growth is due to the increase of both raw timber and final product sales. Bashkortostan timber sector has witnessed sawn timber, timber, veneer, furniture, door units, cement-shaven boards, matches and cardboard production growth within the recent months. Total production increased 6,5% in 2003 compared with the prior period in 2002. Production value was RUR 721 million in 2003.