Ghana risks losing EU timber export licence - Parliament yet to ratify protocols

Ghana risks losing a historic opportunity to become the first African country to export timber to the EU under the Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade (FLEGT) licence if Parliament fails to urgently ratify outstanding timber rights.

Beginning June 15, 2025, all timber exports to the EU must carry a FLEGT licence—proof of legal and sustainable harvesting. However, Parliament’s failure to complete ratification before recess threatens Ghana’s readiness, despite years of preparation.

Forestry Commission CEO Dr Hugh Brown stressed that the milestone would boost Ghana’s global environmental reputation and eliminate illegal logging. “The last step is parliamentary ratification,” he noted.

President John Mahama has pledged government’s commitment to meet the FLEGT deadline, highlighting its alignment with the Paris Agreement and SDG goals.

Officials warn that missing the deadline could complicate timber exports, as unlicensed products would face stricter scrutiny, potentially blocking entry into Ghana’s largest timber market.