Primary Forestry Industry Cluster in Honduras: A SWOT – CAME Analysis

The forestry industry, both primary (sawn wood production) and secondary (output of reels, pallets, boxes, cooperage, and tool handles), is growing in importance in Honduras. In 2023, exports from this industry were mainly destined for Central America (58.19%), followed by North America (22.92%) and the Caribbean region (17.20%), with hardly any Honduran wood reaching Asia or Europe. The objective of this article is twofold: 1) to analyze the current situation of the Honduran timber industry and 2) to propose solutions to avoid the current trade deficit (USD 2.3 million) in the sector and the environmental deterioration caused by the overexploitation of timber resources. To this end, we will apply a descriptive methodology based on official statistical sources. The results of our analysis show the urgent need to implement a series of public policies in the medium and short term to strengthen this industry. Failure to do so is expected to have adverse effects, such as increased pressure on natural forests, rising unemployment, and the loss of an important source of income for both forest owners and the Public Administration.