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Corfo Seeks to Transform the Forestry Sector in Aysén Through Innovation

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The sawmill industry in the Aysén Region, one of Chile's largest reserves of native forests, is undergoing a major transformation thanks to the Integrated Territorial Program (PTI) for Forestry led by Corfo. In its second year of implementation, this initiative aims to consolidate the progress made in its first phase and promote responsible production practices. With a sustainable approach, the program seeks to boost timber production by connecting regional supply with high-value-added markets.

The Forestry Program, driven by Corfo with funding from the Aysén Regional Government and executed by CODESSER, addresses historical gaps such as limited access to raw materials, low technological investment, and a lack of specialized training.

MILESTONES OF THE FIRST YEAR

During its first phase, the Forestry Program achieved significant progress by consolidating a Strategic Council—a public-private coordination space that brought together key stakeholders such as Bienes Nacionales, CONAF, INFOR, and timber entrepreneurs; by conducting feasibility studies that identified 550 hectares of productive forests on strategic public lands in Mañihuales and Río Cajón, projecting revenues of $7.699 billion over the next eight years; and by organizing the Wood Expo Fair, whose first edition attracted over 5,000 attendees and 24 exhibitors, showcasing local supply and connecting producers with potential buyers.

"This program not only seeks to increase production but also to ensure it is sustainable, adding value and generating social and economic benefits for the region," said Humberto Marín Leiva, Director of Corfo Aysén.

One of the program's central pillars is the development of specialized skills. During the first year, training profiles were defined in critical areas such as chainsaw operators, sawmill operators, and risk prevention. Additionally, plans include implementing certified courses and technological innovation programs, highlighting the creation of a digital catalog of value-added forest products.

SECOND-YEAR PROJECTIONS

In its second phase, the PTI Forestry Program will redouble efforts to strengthen specialized technical training; promote business rounds and fairs to facilitate commercial connections between local supply and national and international markets; and drive forest sustainability through consultancy services and management plans that ensure a balance between productivity and environmental conservation.

"Aysén has unique forestry potential, and the PTI is playing a key role in connecting this supply with markets that value quality and traceability. With a three-year horizon, the Forestry Program is positioning itself as a key tool to transform Aysén's sawmill industry into a sustainable and competitive economic engine. Through collaborative work, technological investment, and training, the program aims to establish the region as a national benchmark in sustainable timber production," concluded the director.

Source:tourinnovacion.cl