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Finland Machine Building
Based on sophisticated technologies and on careful
specialization, machine building was an essential
complement to
other industries, but it was growing slowly by the late
1980s.
Employing about one-third of the metalworkers, the sector
concentrated on such product lines as sawmill and
papermill
machinery and mining equipment. By the late 1980s, Finland
had
captured about one-fifth of the world market for
papermaking
equipment, and it led in selected metal-processing
technologies.
The branch also had increased its capability to produce
cranes,
lifts, hoists, forklifts, and cargo-handling vehicles.
Another
strong point was agricultural and forestry machinery,
including
tractors, combines, and logging machines, of which Finland
was
the largest producer in Nordic Europe. As Finland's
economy
matured, however, investment in capital goods declined,
forcing
the sector to search for markets abroad. Although Finnish
equipment enjoyed a strong reputation abroad, demand for
the
country's specialties was limited.
Data as of December 1988
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