Forestry Equipment Market Outlook Report - Market Size, Share Analysis and Forecast (2025-2034)

The global forestry equipment market was valued at USD 11.59 Billion in 2024. The market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.00% during the forecast period of 2025-2034 to reach a value of USD 17.16 Billion by 2034.

The forestry equipment market is undergoing a transformation from a traditional heavy-industry segment to a technology-driven sector. Advanced tools such as remote telemetry, drone surveillance, and autonomous harvesting units are now being deployed, reflecting a shift toward precision forestry. This technological evolution is enabling safer, more efficient, and data-rich operations across managed forests globally.

Global forest management practices are expanding, with the FAO reporting over 2.05 billion hectares under management. A growing share of these forests is embracing mechanised and sustainable harvesting methods, driving demand for smart and efficient forestry equipment.

Policy support is also fuelling global forestry equipment market growth. In the European Union, the Forest Strategy for 2030 promotes digitalisation in logging operations, encouraging the use of connected and automated machinery. Meanwhile, Canada’s Forest Innovation Program is funding AI-powered timber tracking systems, underlining a clear commitment to ESG compliance and traceable, sustainable forest resource management.

This digital surge has also helped counteract labour shortages, boosting the forestry equipment market development. For instance, Finland’s Metsä Group’s harvesting units are now equipped with real-time productivity sensors and VR support for operator training. Forestry 4.0 has also become operational. Demand for low-emission electric equipment is also growing as governments push stricter emission norms. In 2023, John Deere unveiled its electric excavator prototype, which reduces fuel consumption by a significant extent.

From harvesting heads embedded with smart pressure systems to loaders fitted with predictive maintenance software, the forestry equipment market is pivoting towards precision-driven and eco-efficient models. Regions like Asia-Pacific and Latin America are investing in mobile forest processing units to tackle remote access issues. Meanwhile, climate-aligned investments and timber certification schemes are reshaping procurement strategies.

Key Trends and Recent Developments

March 2025

The new line of forestry grapples was launched by Waratah Forestry Equipment, which is intended for a variety of forestry and non-forestry applications. Three model categories including C Models, Large C Models, and E Models are available in the Waratah forestry grapple series to accommodate all forestry and non-forestry applications. This expansion signals growing demand for multipurpose forestry attachments, enhancing operational flexibility in the global forestry equipment market.

February 2025

Caterpillar unveiled the FM528 General Forestry/Log Loader, a device made to tackle difficult mill-yard and forestry jobs. This new model is designed for professionals who work in demanding situations and require excellent efficiency, durability, and comfort. The launch reflects rising investment in rugged and ergonomic equipment, supporting efficiency in heavy-duty applications across global forestry operations.

November 2024

John Deere declared that it would increase the manufacture of forestry equipment at its John Deere Specialty Products plant in Langley, British Columbia. It is anticipated that production of the 800-Series cars will begin in early spring 2025, after the 900-Series models. This expansion demonstrates heightened production capacity to meet global demand, especially from North American and European forestry sectors.

February 2024

John Deere launched one of its biggest products, carrying on its tradition of providing superior, customer-focused solutions. John Deere introduced new state-of-the-art equipment solutions for Model Year 2025 at the Commodity Classic exposition in Houston, Texas. These include high-horsepower 9RX series tractors that are ready for autonomy, including an industry-leading 830 horsepower mode. The innovation showcases the global shift toward autonomous and high-power forestry machinery, redefining productivity standards in the market.

Digital Twin Technology in Logging Operations

Firms in the forestry equipment market are now deploying digital twins, virtual replicas of forests and equipment, to optimise planning and reduce errors. This innovation helps predict tree-fall direction, soil impact, and equipment wear. When integrated with GNSS and terrain-mapping tools, digital twins help B2B contractors plan mechanised routes with reduced downtime. These virtual models also support regulatory reporting, appealing to firms bound by emission and land-use disclosures.

Low-Impact Tyre Systems and Soil Health Equipment

Forestry equipment manufacturers are now engineering low-impact tyre systems and lightweight treads to reduce soil compaction, which is an essential concern in logging zones with fragile ecosystems. In line with this, John Deere began offering the fully integrated Central Tire Inflation System (CTIS) on its 8R Series tractors equipped with Independent Link Suspension as a standard feature in Spring 2024. The impact of such innovations is evident, with Finland’s Natural Resources Institute reporting over an 18% reduction in soil erosion using similar technologies as per a 2024 study. These advancements align with sustainable certification standards like FSC and PEFC. To enhance value, manufacturers are bundling these soil-health-oriented solutions with subscription-based telemetry systems that enable continuous terrain analysis. This integrated approach supports better forest regeneration outcomes and lowers long-term rehabilitation costs for B2B stakeholders.

AI-Based Predictive Maintenance in Forestry Fleets

Predictive analytics are gradually transforming the forestry equipment market dynamics. AI-based systems now monitor equipment stress, hydraulic oil life, and engine vibration. Komatsu Forest has developed a unique AI model for analysing deteriorated parts by collecting data from machines on the market at the time of deterioration and failure. These systems are particularly crucial for contractors operating in remote sites with limited repair access. Subscription platforms for B2B buyers now bundle data logs and actionable maintenance alerts, ensuring higher machine utilisation and budgeting accuracy.

Decentralised Biomass Processing Units

Rather than transporting logs over long distances, decentralised biomass processors are being integrated into harvesters or nearby hubs, boosting the forestry equipment market development. These units convert residual timber into energy or pulp on-site. Brazil’s Embrapa Forestry is deploying mobile units to reduce carbon emissions tied to logistics. In India, state forestry boards are issuing tenders for biomass collection tied to renewable energy quotas. B2B vendors dealing in paper, packaging, and biofuels now see strategic value in such set-ups. These not only slash transport costs but also comply with circular economy mandates.

Operator-Centric Cabin Innovations

Forestry equipment manufacturers are designing cabins focused on reducing operator fatigue and boosting productivity. Touchscreen interfaces, panoramic windshields, and biometric seat-adjustment technology are becoming standard in high-end models. Ponsse’s new “Ergo Harvester” has been designed to improve the operator's driving comfort and working efficiency, as well as increasing the efficiency and management of forest machine companies. Japan’s Forestry Agency has endorsed such systems to improve work safety. B2B leasing firms now promote these features as productivity enhancers, enabling longer, more efficient shifts while maintaining compliance with local labour safety norms.

Global Forestry Equipment Industry Segmentation

The report titled “Global Forestry Equipment Market Report and Forecast 2025-2034” offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments:

Market Breakup by Product

• Harvester
• Feller Bunche
• Forwarder
• Skidders
• Bunchers
• Loaders
• Mulcher
• Others

Key Insight: Product types as considered in the forestry equipment market report cater to varying operational needs. Harvesters dominate the industry due to their automation compatibility and volume efficiency. Forwarders and skidders remain essential for timber transport but are slowly being optimised for emissions. Loaders and feller bunchers serve high-volume, commercial plantations. Meanwhile, mulchers are gaining favour for their eco-utility in land clearing and reforestation preparation. Bunchers and other niche tools serve specialised operations, particularly in steep or mixed-terrain forestry.

Market Breakup by Power Source

• Electric
• Gas
• Oil

Key Insight: Oil remains dominant in the forestry equipment industry for its field reliability, particularly in rugged, large-scale operations. Gas-powered tools remain prevalent in mobile, low-load applications. However, electric power sources are rapidly becoming attractive due to lower maintenance, zero tailpipe emissions, and funding incentives. Companies are increasingly evaluating hybrid models that offer electric drive with fuel backup for extended shifts.

Market Breakup by Region

• North America
• Europe
• Asia-Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East and Africa

Key Insight: North America continues to dominate the forestry equipment market due to mechanisation, policy funding, and mature B2B ecosystems. Europe is pivoting to electric forestry fleets under its Green Deal programme. Asia-Pacific, led by India and China, is catching up fast, combining ecological restoration with production scale-ups. Latin America remains a promising growth zone, especially in Brazil, where decentralised processing is surging. Meanwhile, Africa and the Middle East are focusing on soil restoration and sustainable harvesting through grants and public-private partnerships.

Global Forestry Equipment Market Share

By Product, Harvester Registers a Significant Share of the Market

Harvesters remain the dominant segment accelerating the forestry equipment market value. These are especially used in regulated logging environments where precision and yield consistency matter. These machines, now equipped with real-time mapping and AI-driven cutting heads, significantly reduce felling time and increase volume yield per hectare. In Sweden and Finland, harvesters with automatic tree identification systems are becoming the norm. Companies like Ponsse and Komatsu Forest have integrated smart saw positioning and bark thickness detection, improving cut quality and waste control.

Mulchers are seeing explosive growth in the forestry equipment market, boosted by regions where reforestation, firebreak creation, or land clearing for agroforestry are top priorities. These machines are evolving fast with low-emission electric motors and adjustable blade torque for terrain-specific mulching. Companies like FAE and Tigercat are now launching tracked mulchers embedded with topographic sensing to avoid root zone damage. In wildfire-prone California and Australia, municipal contracts are favouring mulchers over traditional bulldozers for their reduced ecological impact.

By Power Source, Oil Continues to Secure the Maximum Share of the Market

Oil-based power sources continue to dominate the forestry equipment market, especially in heavy-duty forestry equipment operating in remote terrains. Their high energy density, better torque control, and established servicing ecosystem make them suitable for long-shift operations in dense forests. However, manufacturers are innovating within this category as well. They are introducing cleaner-burning engines and hybrid boosters to reduce carbon output. The U.S. Forest Service continues to heavily rely on oil-based skidders and forwarders, particularly for salvage logging after wildfires.

Electric forestry equipment is advancing rapidly, driven by emission regulations and operational cost savings. From compact electric mulchers to hybrid harvesters, the application area is broadening. John Deere and EcoLog have released electric forwarder prototypes with regenerative braking systems. These machines not only lower GHGs but also operate quieter, which makes them suitable for urban-forest interfaces. In Germany, government subsidies under the Bonn Challenge are promoting electric logging trials. Battery-swapping stations and solar-charging logistics further amplify electric forestry equipment adoption rates.

Global Forestry Equipment Market Regional Analysis

North America Retains its Dominant Position in the Market

The North America forestry equipment market’s dominance is driven by large-scale mechanised forestry and investment in wildfire prevention infrastructure. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has allocated over USD 2.6 billion for Wildland Fire Management, much of which is directed towards advanced equipment procurement. Canada’s forestry firms are leveraging AI-integrated skidders and autonomous drones to monitor yield and tree health. Private logging companies and state bodies alike are shifting towards data-backed, compliance-ready solutions. Additionally, commercial timber players are bundling equipment with carbon credit modelling services.

The Asia-Pacific forestry equipment market is rapidly scaling up, with countries like China, India, and Indonesia increasing afforestation efforts and timber output. In India, the Forest Survey of India has digitised tree census programmes, encouraging demand for equipment with sensor capabilities. China’s aggressive push towards eco-restoration under its Green Shield Action has led to expanded logging bans in natural forests and mechanisation of planted forests. Japanese logging cooperatives are adopting smart forwarders and mulchers in reforestation projects.

Competitive Landscape

Forestry equipment market players like John Deere, Ponsse, Komatsu Forest, and Tigercat are increasingly focusing on innovation in smart machine systems and real-time data analytics. The bundling of machinery with telematics dashboards, predictive maintenance subscriptions, and training platforms have been noticeable trends in the market. Electric and hybrid variants are also attracting B2B clients involved in ESG-aligned projects, such as certified timber sourcing and reforestation.

Forestry equipment companies are also venturing into service-based models, leasing, fleet optimisation, and on-demand tech support, which is opening up new revenue streams. In high-regulation regions like the European Union, data compliance tools embedded into machinery are becoming a market differentiator. Additionally, partnerships with governments and local forestry cooperatives are creating access to emerging markets like sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia.

Deere & Company

Headquartered in United States and established in 1837, Deere & Company is a manufacturer of connected and intelligent applications and machines to revolutionise the construction and agricultural sectors. The company’s portfolio includes over 25 brands that provide innovative solutions for several end-use sectors. In 2021, the company generated net sales and revenues of USD 44.02 billion. With 75,600 employees in over 100 locations across the globe, 48% of its consolidated revenues and sales occurred outside the United States.

Komatsu Ltd.

Komatsu Ltd. or Komatsu is a manufacturer of equipment and machinery used in utility, construction, forestry, and industrial applications. The company, headquartered in Japan, has 76 manufacturing facilities around the world and had a workforce of around 62,774 as of 2021. In August 2020, it launched new high-performance plasma cutting machines TWISTER TFPL10-6 and TFPL08-6. Its net sales reached JPY 69.39 billion in 2021.

Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd.

Established in 1970 and based in Tokyo, Japan, Hitachi Construction Machinery (HCM) is a subsidiary of the Hitachi Group that is engaged in the manufacturing, sales and service of construction machinery, transportation machinery, and other machines and devices. It was involved in the production of Japan’s first mechanical excavator. The company has a consolidated workforce of around 25,000 employees, with 80 subsidiaries and 22 affiliate companies. In 2021, the company generated consolidated revenue of JPY 1.02 trillion.

Barko Hydraulics, LLC

Founded in 1963, Barko Hydraulics manufactures heavy equipment for the forestry, site prep, and material handling industries. Its mission is to deliver durable and reliable purpose-built equipment that provides customers with the tools they need to become more successful, comfortable, and safe. Some of its premium brands include merchandising knuckleboom loaders, advanced line-up of harvesters and feller bunchers, industrial wheeled tractors, rough terrain carrier loader, and stationary electric loaders, among others.

Other key players in the market are Caterpillar Inc., and Rottne Industri AB, among others.

Key Features of the Report

• In-depth analysis of the Global Forestry Equipment Market size, historical performance, and forecast trends
• Detailed segmentation by product type, power source, and regional landscape
• Assessment of market dynamics including technology integration, emissions mandates, and land management trends
• Strategic profiling of key companies and insights into their competitive positioning and innovations
• Review of recent investments, facility expansions, and their implications for global supply chains
• Exploration of technological advances such as AI-based maintenance, electric propulsion, and digital twin modelling
• Forecast outlook on evolving procurement practices and emerging B2B business models across forestry ecosystems

Why Choose This Research?

• Trusted research based on primary fieldwork and verified global forestry statistics
• Actionable insights designed to inform OEMs, contractors, and sustainable procurement teams
• In-depth region- and segment-specific intelligence aligned with ESG and productivity goals
• Strategic guidance to navigate emerging opportunities and compliance risks in forestry operations