Timber industry players equipped ahead of FLEGT issuance in June 2025

The Forestry Commission is addressing concerns from local timber industry players. They believe the Forest Law Enforcement Governance and Trade (FLEGT) license harms their operations.

The Commission explained that this legal framework helps check illegal logging. It also promotes better forest governance, which boosts productivity in the local industry.

In 2024, the Lands and Natural Resources Ministry signed an agreement with the European Union. This agreement allows for the issuance of the FLEGT license. By June 2025, Ghana will be the second country globally and the first in Africa to issue this license.

This voluntary partnership agreement shows Ghana's commitment to trading legal timber. It aims to combat illegal logging and promote good forest governance.

Samuel Mawuli Doe, Research and Statistics Manager at the Forestry Commission, commented on FLEGT's impact. He noted that before FLEGT, illegal materials could be mixed for export. Now, the system will track wood sources more effectively.

To prepare for this change, the Forestry Commission held a two-day workshop. This event brought together stakeholders from both sectors of the timber industry. Participants learned about obtaining licenses for exporting timber to Europe and its benefits.

In 2024, Ghana exported timber products worth an estimated 125 million euros. Dr. Richard Gyimah, Acting Director of Timber Industry Development Division, emphasized the industry's importance. A vibrant timber sector creates jobs and improves livelihoods within a large supply chain.

The FLEGT license also positions Ghana as a model for other countries pursuing similar licenses. Eric Hayford Eshun from the Commission highlighted its benefits for local industry players.

He stated that with this license, they can send legal wood to EU markets. This will enhance their competitiveness and attract more buyers.