This publication compiles comprehensive statistical data on global forest products from 1978 to 1989, serving as a critical resource for understanding trends in production, consumption, and trade within the forestry sector over a twelve-year period. As a product of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), it draws upon official national statistics and expert assessments to present a standardized and comparable dataset. The core argument is that consistent, long-term data collection is essential for informed policy-making, market analysis, and sustainable resource management in the global forest industry.

This yearbook is regarded as an authoritative compilation of historical data for researchers, policymakers, and industry professionals focused on the global forest products sector. Its value lies in providing a consistent, decade-long snapshot of production, consumption, and trade patterns, enabling detailed trend analysis and comparative studies. The comprehensive nature of the data, collected by the FAO, makes it an indispensable reference for understanding the economic and industrial landscape of forestry during the specified period. The publication serves as a foundational resource for academic research and strategic planning within the industry.