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Top Ten Countries with the Largest Forest Areas in 2025
1. Russia Dominates with Over 20% of Global Forests
Russia maintains its position as the nation with the most forested land, accounting for approximately 20.2% of the world’s total forest area. Covering a vast expanse across Siberia and the Far East, Russia’s forests are vital for carbon sequestration, biodiversity, and global climate regulation. Despite challenges such as illegal logging and deforestation, Russia’s forest management policies have been evolving to preserve these valuable ecosystems.
2. Brazil Holds the Second Spot with 12.3%
Brazil’s Amazon rainforest continues to be a critical component of the planet’s ecological balance, containing about 12.3% of the world’s forests. The Amazon is called the “lungs of the Earth” because of its significant role in absorbing carbon dioxide. Over recent years, concerns have escalated over deforestation driven by agriculture, logging, and infrastructure development. The Brazilian government has initiated various policies aimed at sustainable management, but enforcement remains crucial.
3. Canada’s Forests Cover 8.6% of the Global Total
Canada ranks third globally with 8.6% of the world’s forests, primarily concentrated in its vast boreal zones. Canadian forests are essential habitats for wildlife and serve as a significant resource for timber and paper industries. The country has committed to balancing resource use with conservation, implementing stricter environmental regulations to prevent overexploitation.
4. The United States Has 7.7% of the World’s Forests
With extensive woodlands stretching from the Pacific Northwest to the Southeast, the U.S. holds around 7.7% of global forest cover. American forests are vital for biodiversity, recreation, and climate regulation. Recent initiatives focus on reforestation, fire management, and combating urbanization threats to maintain forest health.
5. China’s Forests Make Up 5.5%
China’s vast landmass includes diverse forest types, representing approximately 5.5% of the world’s forests. In recent decades, China has aggressively promoted afforestation and reforestation programs, aiming to improve air quality, combat desertification, and increase forest cover. These efforts are part of their national strategy for ecological civilization.
6. Australia’s Unique Foliage Accounts for 3.3%
Despite its smaller share, Australia’s forests are notable for their unique biodiversity, including eucalyptus and acacia species. Forest conservation has become a priority, especially following devastating bushfires in recent years. Australia continues to develop fire management and restoration strategies to protect its fragile ecosystems.
7. Democratic Republic of Congo’s Rich Rainforests
The DRC holds roughly 3.1% of global forest area, predominantly in the Congo Basin rainforest — the second-largest tropical rainforest after the Amazon. These forests are critical for carbon storage and home to numerous endangered species. Challenges like illegal logging and conflict have threatened conservation efforts, but international aid is focusing on sustainable management.
8. Indonesia’s Tropical Forests at 2.3%
Indonesia’s lush rainforests comprise about 2.3% of the world’s forest area, playing a pivotal role in global biodiversity and climate regulation. Deforestation due to palm oil plantations and logging has been a persistent issue, prompting both government and NGO efforts toward sustainable practices and forest restoration.
9. India’s Forests Cover 1.8% of the World
India has made substantial strides in increasing its forest cover through afforestation projects, now covering around 1.8% of the world’s forests. These forests support a rich diversity of flora and fauna and are crucial for rural livelihoods. The government remains focused on sustainable forestry to combat deforestation and promote biodiversity.
10. Peru’s Forests Constitute 1.8%
Peru’s Amazon basin and Andean forests comprise about 1.8% of global forest, hosting unparalleled biodiversity. Conservation initiatives, coupled with indigenous community involvement, are central to preserving these ecosystems amid ongoing threats from illegal logging and land conversion.
Additional Data and Trends
While these top ten countries dominate the conversation around forest areas, other nations collectively hold 25.4% of the world’s forests. Countries like Angola, Mexico, Colombia, Bolivia, Venezuela, and Tanzania contribute significantly to global biodiversity and ecological stability.
Recent advances in satellite imaging and stricter enforcement of conservation policies have increased awareness of forest management’s importance. Global efforts are increasingly focused on balancing economic development with sustainable forest use to preserve the planet’s trees for future generations.
Source: World Bank, 2025 | Data refined and updated as of October 2023
Note: Figures may not add up precisely to 100% due to rounding.
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