1. CENTRAL AND WEST AFRICA

  Mounting pressure from CITES paperwork
There has been some upward movement in FOB prices in
Gabon, Cameroon and the Republic of Congo.

The main concern expressed by both exporters and some
importers is the mounting pressure from CITES paperwork
in Europe. Some are saying European authorities are slow
to process documents and this is delaying some shipments
and causing export stocks to rise.

As global demand is still muted many sawmills in the
region have cut production. Okoume veneer producers are
also feeling the effect of the decline in demand. Some
have switched to single shift operations while others have
temporarily closed.

It is reported that sawnwood flows to Asian markets are
holdin-up with the Philippines and Vietnam being the
active importers. Demand in the Middle East countries is
said to be steady but unspectacular. Across Europe trade is
subdued in all species except azobé which continues to
move consistently into the Dutch and Belgian heavy
construction markets.

Regional round up

Gabon
Owendo Port is said to be operating well and the
availability of containers is adequate. Vessel turn-around
is said to be good. The planned carbon‑offset levy on
every freight tonne is still under review so shipping lines
are not faced with the issue of implementing this as yet.

Exports of padouk, khaya and doussie have dropped
sharply say exporters, because authorities in the EU are
slow to process CITES documents.

It has been reported the proposed land tax increases are on
hold. After missing the 25 March deadline to settle
current taxes many concessionaires have asked for
staggered payments and extensions are being granted case
by case.

General Brice Oligui Nguema has won the presidential
election in Gabon. General Nguema won with more than
90% of the votes according to the Interior Ministry.

Cameroon
For the next two months the forecast is for mainly dry
weather conditions so most producers expect smooth
trucking to Douala and Kribi Ports. Camrail continues to
run without major disruption providing a reliable route for
sawn timber from the interior.

Operators report Chinese demand for redwoods has faded
forcing many mills to reduce production. It is suggested
that roughly half of the Chinese owned mills are now idle.
Overall, the flow of orders is very slow with importers in
Europe buying only for immediate demand so as not to
increase stocks.

In Europe, importers complain that processing CITES
documents is slow dampening trade in padouk, khaya and
doussie. Buyers in the Middle East countries are still
interested in Iroko, Sapelli and redwoods.

Congo
No change in output has been reported during the second
half of April. Northern concessions are still in the dry
window but some plywood and veneer plants, mainly
Chinese and Malaysian owned, have moved to single shift
operations because of weak demand.

Domestic haulage routes are said to be serviceable. A
common problem is fuel rationing which occasionally
disrupts transport plans. Log flows to Douala Port (Kribi
for some operators) remain sporadic because of tight
trucking capacity and high fuel costs.

Pointe Noire is again experiencing congestion with
berthing opportunities sliding by up to five
days. Container supply is said to be adequate.

Order books have not improved since the previous
update. EU buyers are avoiding CITES‑listed species until
permit processing becomes more efficient. Buyers for the
Chinese market are purchasing only limited volumes. The
Philippines and Vietnam continue modest purchases
chiefly of okoume and tali.

No new forestry directives have been issued but the
finance ministry is said to be insisting that land tax arrears
be cleared before new harvesting coupes (AAC) are
approved.



Through the eyes of industry
The latest GTI report lists the challenges identified by the
private sector in the Republic of Congo and Gabon.

https://www.itto-
ggsc.org/static/upload/file/20250418/1744957176173218.
pdf

2. GHANA

  Volume and value of wood product exports fall
According to the Timber Industry Development Division
(TIDD) of the Forestry Commission (FC) Ghana’s wood
product exports for the first two-months of 2025 recorded
decreases of 5% in volume and 4% in value compared to
the previous year.



The country earned Eur18.15 million from the export of
38,656 cu.m of wood products for the period in 2025
against figures recorded for the same period in 2024 which
were Eur18.83 million from 40,709 cu.m.

The low volume of exports for the period under review
compared to the same period in 2024 could be attributed to
the poor performance of plywood (-93%), briquettes
(-40%), plywood to the regional market (-28%),
mouldings (-21%), kiln dried sawnwood (-18%), rotary
veneer (-14%) and five other wood products (-38%).

The main exporters of sliced veneer saw a growth of 64%
in volume and 87% in value in the first two months of
2025 compared to the same period in 2024. The main
destinations for this product were Europe (65%), Asia
(18%), Africa (13%) and the US (4%).

The TIDD data also showed the average unit prices of
wood products exported during the period. Teak, wawa,
denya, ceiba and gmelina were the top species exported.
Sliced veneer, which accounted for 3% of the total export
volume, registered an increase of 14% in average price
while air-dried sawnwood, accounting for 59% of exports,
saw a 2% average price decrease for the period under
review.



Review of Plantation Development Fund
The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel
Armah-Kofi Buah, has engaged the Forest Plantation
Development Fund (FPDF) Board to assess their
operational activities and discuss ways to enhance their
mandate in line with the government’s agenda.

At a meeting with management and staff the Minister
commended the Fund Board Secretariat for their efforts in
promoting forest plantation development. He emphasised
the importance of aligning activities with the
government’s broader environmental objectives to
improve the nation’s forest cover.

The FPDF provides financial support for private forest
plantation development and offers research and technical
advice to individuals engaged in commercial plantation
forestry.

Briefing the Minister on the Board’s operations the
Technical Officer within the Secretariat, Jason Nunoo,
highlighted pressing issues of the FPDF that require urgent
attention and offered recommendations to ensure its
sustainability.

Speaking to the media the Deputy Minister for Lands and
Natural Resources, Yusif Sulemana, emphasised the
concerns raised by the Secretariat. He assured their
concerns would be addressed by a new Board once
constituted. He also stressed the need to amend the
governing Act 623 to review the FPDF Board’s mandate
and formally establish it as an agency under the Ministry.

Meanwhile, the FPDFB Board currently owes seedling
producers GH¢4 million. Payments are to be made after a
new Board is reconstituted to look into the details of the
arrears.

See: https://mlnr.gov.gh/strengthening-ghanas-green-future-
minister-reviews-forest-plantation-development-fund-operations/

Businesses assured of efficiency at ports
The Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) and the
Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA) have assured businesses
of enhanced efficiency and attractive protocols at Ghana’s
Ports to reduce their cost of doing business.

The new heads of these institutions made this commitment
during their partnership meeting aimed at collaborating
with both the local and transit customers to discuss issues
of mutual interest while their fostering socio-economic
growth in line with the government’s economic agenda.

This collaboration forms part of broader efforts to make
Ghana’s ports more competitive within the sub-region,
facilitate trade and contribute to national economic
development.

The Chief Executive of GSA, Professor Ransford
Gyampo, stressed the importance of identifying
operational bottlenecks and implementing sustainable
solutions to mitigate delays, noting that inefficiencies
often lead to additional costs for importers which are
ultimately passed on to consumers.

On his part the Director General of the GPHA, Brigadier
General Paul Seidu Tanye-Kulono, reiterated his earlier
appeal to the Minister of Transport for the removal of
Value Added Tax (VAT) and COVID-19-related taxes on
transit and trans-shipped goods.

See: https://citinewsroom.com/2025/03/gpha-gsa-reaffirm-
commitment-to-reduce-port-business-cost/

Power and water charge raised
The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) has
announced a 14.75% increase in electricity charges and a
4.02% increase in water tariffs across all customer
categories to take effect 3 May 2025.

According to the PURC the revised tariffs form part of its
Quarterly Tariff Review Mechanism based on changes in
four key variables in the past quarters, namely, the
Cedi/US$ exchange rate, inflation, the electricity
generation mix and the cost of fuel (mainly natural gas)
used in power production. It stated inflation and exchange
rates as the main drivers of tariff increases.

The Commission also cited the need to recover the
outstanding GHS976 million in revenue arrears
accumulated over the last three quarters of 2024 as a major
contributing factor to the increases.

In a statement signed by the new Executive Secretary, Dr.
Shafic Suleman, the PURC emphasised that it opted to
recover only half of the outstanding arrears now to
minimise the impact on consumers. Dr. Suleman described
the decision as part of a "careful balancing act" to maintain
utility solvency without overburdening consumers given
the prevailing economic difficulties.

See: https://citinewsroom.com/2025/04/electricity-tariff-up-14-
75-water-4-02-effective-may-3/

Inflation fell in March
According to the latest CPI report by the Ghana Statistical
Service (GSS), the year-on-year inflation rate for March
2025 eased slightly to 22.4%, down from 23.1 percent
recorded in February 2025. However, the recent rise in
utility charges will have a direct impact on the Consumer
Price Index (CPI).

See:
https://statsghana.gov.gh/gssmain/storage/img/marqueeupdater/B
ulletin_%20CPI%20March%202025.pdf

Through the eyes of industry
The latest GTI report lists the challenges identified by the
private sector in Ghana.

https://www.itto-
ggsc.org/static/upload/file/20250418/1744957176173218.
pdf

3. MALAYSIA

  ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Area
upgrade
The upgrade of the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free
Trade Area (AANZFTA) in April strengthens Malaysia’s
economic resilience in an increasingly competitive
regional market which has a combined gross domestic
product exceeding US$5.6 trillion and a population of
more than 700 million.

The latest Agreement offers an opportunity to reduce
transaction costs, support the digitalisation of trade,
strengthen supply chain resilience and trade and
investment. The AANZFTA has been a vital part of
Malaysia’s regional trade strategy since its entry into force
in 2010.

See:
http://theborneopost.pressreader.com/article/282312505925782

Pivot towards conservation
Sarawak is now shifting its focus from timber extraction to
forest conservation and developing environment-based
revenue streams, said Sarawak Forestry Department
Director, Hamden Mohammad.

He said this shift was crucial as Sarawak moves to
transform its forestry sector through more sustainable and
technology-driven methods in line with the Post Covid-19
Development Strategy 2030.

“More than 50 years ago timber was the State’s main
source of income. However, we are now prioritising forest
conservation and looking for new ways such as carbon
trading and payment for services that do not affect the
existing ecosystem,” he said.

Training for log scalers and log pond supervisors
A total of 34 participants comprising log scalers, log pond
supervisors and timber industry stakeholders participated
in a three-day Log Scaling Course in Sibu organised by
the Sarawak Forest Department (SFD) and STA Training
Sdn Bhd (STAT, a training arm of the Sarawak Timber
Association.

The course provided critical aspects of log scaling,
covering measurement techniques, log tagging, identifying
species, recording log details into log specification form
and submitting applications to SFD for royalty assessment,
as well as other log movement activities along the
Sarawak Timber Chain of Custody in accordance with the
Forests Ordinance 2015 and associated requirements.

During the training, the trainers imparted participants with
necessary knowledge and skills on log scaling in both
classroom settings and valuable on-site hands-on practice.
Participants were taught accurate measurement of log
dimensions, including volume calculation for various log
dimensions such as hollow, bent and other defects. This is
critical in commercial trading as well as royalty payments
to the government.

See:
http://theborneopost.pressreader.com/article/281599541356969

Research on evidence-based forest governance
A technical committee from the Sarawak Forest
Department (FDS) recently met at the National Institute
for Environmental Studies (NIES) in Tsukuba, Japan. The
meeting marked a step forward in the bilateral
collaboration between the Department and NIES to
advance research for evidence-based forest governance.
The committee brought together experts in forestry,
geospatial science, environmental legislation, forest
engineering and research technology.

The primary objective of the collaboration was to assess
research findings and data presented by NIES researchers
to guide Sarawak’s policy decisions in line with the
Sarawak Premier’s vision of a green economy. The
Japanese researchers presented papers on a wide range of
topics, including advanced forest monitoring technologies
and sustainable management practices.

In 2024, NIES conducted several capacity-building
programmes for Sarawak civil servants and industry
stakeholders and these included training on tree DNA
analysis and Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR)
technology, a powerful tool for forest mapping and
modelling.

See:
http://theborneopost.pressreader.com/article/281565181616278

Reappointed chairman for Malaysian Timber Council
Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation
(STIDC) General Manager, Zainal Abidin Abdullah, has
been reappointed as Malaysian Timber Council (MTC)
chairman for 2025/27.

This will be his second term as the Council’s chairman,
according to a press release. In response to the
appointment Zainal Abidin expressed optimism about the
future of the timber and wood industry emphasising a
renewed focus on strategic leadership to drive sustainable
growth and innovation.

“My expectation is to work closely with all stakeholders to
enhance industry standards, promote responsible forest
management and expand market access both domestically
and internationally,” he said.

He also stressed the importance of collaboration across the
value chain to increase competitiveness and ensure that the
industry contributes significantly to the economy while
maintaining environmental and social responsibilities.

FRIM committed to spearheading tropical forestry
research and innovation
As it approaches its 40th anniversary this October, the
Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM) remains
committed to spearheading tropical forestry research and
innovation based on natural resources.

FRIM Director-General, Datuk D.r Ismail Parlan, said this
year’s anniversary is not only a celebration of past
achievements but also a symbol of FRIM’s resolve to
move forward with a global vision and aspirations for
environmental sustainability. “This 40th anniversary
reflects FRIM’s legacy and its future direction as a
credible, sustainable and internationally recognised
institution,” he told the press.

He noted that the institute— formerly known as the Forest
Research Institute (FRI) established in 1926 and renamed
FRIM on Oct 1, 1985—has received various accolades and
awards in recognition of its contributions to research,
development, commercialisation and innovation.

See:
http://theborneopost.pressreader.com/article/281917368907778
and
https://info.frim.gov.my/infocenter/fin/file/MY_899_20250410_
N_BPK_HOME_PG10_fe9e90.pdf

Discussions on measures to withstand tariff storm
The text should read “In 2024 Malaysia's exports to the United
States were RM 198.65 billion out of total exports of RM 1,508
billion.”

Through the eyes of industry
The latest GTI report lists the challenges identified by the
private sector in Malaysia.

See: https://www.itto-
ggsc.org/static/upload/file/20250418/1744957176173218.pdf

4.  INDONESIA

  Encouraging first quarter exports
According to data from the Ministry of Forestry analysed
by the Indonesian Forestry Entrepreneurs Association
(APHI), the value of wood products exports in the first
quarter 2025 increased 8% compared to the first quarter
2024.

The wood products that contributed most to exports were
paper products US$1.05 billion followed by pulp
(US$890.9 million), wood panels (US$567 million) and
furniture (US$423.5 million). Indonesian wood product
exports to China in the first quarter were recorded at
US$830.4 million, up 9% year on year.

Exports of Indonesian wood products to the US rose 20%
while exports to the European Union and the UK were
recorded at US$336.12 million, up 18% year on year.
However, exports to Japan were recorded at US$2$.3
million, down 24%. A decline in exports to Korea was
largely influenced by a decline in demand for wood chips.

See: https://forestinsights.id/tren-menanjak-kinerja-ekspor-
produk-kayu-indonesia-triwulan-pertama-2025-modal-hadapi-
perang-tarif/#

Minister confirms commitment to sustainable forest
management
Minister of Forestry, Raja Juli Antoni, has reaffirmed the
government’s commitment to sustainable forest
management which aligns with enhancing community
welfare. The Minister stated the Ministry is reviewing
regulations to enhance forest management. The goal is to
encourage productivity while ensuring the protection of
the surrounding environment.

Additionally, the Minister highlighted the Forest
Utilisation Business Permit (PBPH) as an example of how
productivity can align with efforts to maintain
environmental sustainability. The Minister has said that
one of the priorities is establishing strong collaboration to
expand the potential of forest areas with sustainable use
and explained that this potential can be expanded through
the implementation of multi-business forestry which is
expected to boost the local economy.

He said that a working team has been formed to accelerate
the implementation of the multi-business forestry model.

To ensure the programme can run successfully the
Ministry requires support from its partners, especially in
improving capacity, widening market access, innovation
and investment. In addition, the Minister is prioritising
acceleration of official recognition of customary forests.
"This is an important part of our commitment to social
forestry and the rights of customary communities," he
said.

He explained, the Multi-Business Forestry (MUK) Task
Force aims to promote a more diverse and sustainable
forestry business model. Suryo Adiwibowo, a
representative of the MUK Task Force, stated that over
600 indigenous communities have received official
recognition to date. However, challenges with verification
and limited resources continue to pose obstacles.

He proposed the creation of a national database for
indigenous peoples and emphasised the need to strengthen
indigenous committees at the regional level as a means to
accelerate progress.

Additionally, it is important to clarify and enhance the
roles and responsibilities of local indigenous committees
in order to align the duties of the Director General of
Social Forestry within the Ministry of Forestry with those
of local governments and NGOs.

See: https://www.antaranews.com/berita/4777789/menhut-
tegaskan-komitmen-pemerintah-dalam-pengelolaan-hutan-lestari
and
https://www.msn.com/id-id/masyarakat-budaya-dan-
sejarah/masalah-sosial/menhut-kebut-proses-pengakuan-hutan-
adat-di-indonesia/ar-AA1CVkVp?ocid=BingNewsVerp

Kadin to transform the forestry business model
beyond wood
The Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry
(Kadin) has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainably and
inclusively in transforming forestry businesses. Shinta W.
Kamdani, Deputy Chairperson for the Coordinator of
Human Development, Culture and Sustainable
Development at Kadin, emphasised that Multi-Business
Forestry (MUK) represents a crucial shift in the forestry
business model which has primarily relied on timber.

"This transformation is not an easy process. For more than
50 years the forestry business has depended solely on
wood. Now, we must build a new business model.
However, we believe that, through collaboration and
innovation, we can meet this challenge," Shinta stated
during a Roundtable Dialogue with UK officials at the
British Embassy.

In related news, Kadin, through the Regenerative Forest
Business Hub (Kadin RFBH) in collaboration with the
British Embassy, has introduced and promoted the
implementation of the Biodiversity Credit scheme as part
of the transformation towards a green economy.

Kamdani said biodiversity conservation must be an
integral part of economic development.

The Biodiversity Credit scheme provides businesses with
an opportunity to contribute to environmental conservation
in a meaningful way. Dominic Jermey, British
Ambassador to Indonesia, highlighted that the UK and
France initiated the International Advisory Panel on
Biodiversity Credit in 2023. He noted that Indonesia's
efforts to develop biodiversity credit scheme represent a
vital step in the global agenda for nature conservation and
the transition to sustainable economic growth.

See: https://www.idxchannel.com/economics/kadin-siap-
tranformasi-bisnis-kehutanan-tak-hanya-fokus-pada-kayu/2
and
https://www.inews.id/finance/bisnis/gandeng-kedubes-inggris-
kadin-dukung-implementasi-biodiversity-credit-dan-multi-usaha-
kehutanan

Ban on commercial timber extraction in Mangrove
forests
The government has announced that permits will no longer
be issued for timber extraction in mangrove ecosystems.
Permits will now be prioritised for environmental services.

Ristianto Pribadi, Director of Mangrove Rehabilitation
stated that environmental services in mangrove
ecosystems could include the utilisation of Non-Timber
Forest Products (NTFP) and ecotourism.

Ristianto stated that 84,000 hectares of mangroves have
been rehabilitated in the past five years. The government
has set a target to rehabilitate 600,000 hectares of
mangroves by 2024. Ristianto stated that the forestry
sector was a high priority for past the government.

See: https://www.antaranews.com/berita/4774849/kemenhut-
tidak-ada-lagi-izin-penebangan-kayu-di-kawasan-mangrove
and
https://lestari.kompas.com/read/2025/04/16/171500786/kemenhu
t--84.000-hektare-mangrove-direhabilitasi-selama-5-tahun-
terakhir-.

Incentives offered to to US companies
It has been reported that the Indonesian government
intends to offer facilities and incentives to US companies
operating in the country to smooth the ongoing
negotiations over the new import tariffs. ". The
government plans to form a deregulation team dedicated to
simplifying rules and regulations to make business
operations easier for investors.

See: https://en.antaranews.com/news/352169/indonesia-plans-
business-incentives-to-advance-us-tariff-talks

Attempts to fast track Indonesia-European Union (IEU-
CEPA) agreement
The government is seeking a quick completion of the
Indonesia-European Union Comprehensive Partnership
Agreement (IEU-CEPA) to address the impact of US
reciprocal tariffs, according to chairperson of the National
Economic Council (DEN), Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan.

He said this while receiving a visit from a delegation of
the Committee on International Trade (INTA) of the
European Parliament led by Bernd Lange. The European
Union aims to collaborate more closely with Indonesia,
said Lange. He cited the current uncertain and
geopolitically complex global situation.

Lange elaborated that the European Union aims to foster
sustainable growth to generate more employment
opportunities while safeguarding existing jobs within
Indonesia. Lange expressed hope that the cooperation
between the European Union and Indonesia will soon
materialise through a trade agreement.

See: https://en.tempo.co/read/1998002/eu-and-indonesia-forge-
closer-ties-amid-global-instability
and
https://en.antaranews.com/news/351857/ri-pushes-ieu-cepa-talks-
completion-amid-us-tariffs

5. MYANMAR

   Quake impacts economic and social vulnerabilities
The recent 7.7 magnitude earthquake and the US tariff
policy have impacted various sectors of Myanmar’s fragile
economy. These new pressures are now intertwined
further escalating the country’s economic and social
vulnerabilities.

US import tariffs - limited immediate impact
The US has imposed a 44% tariff on imports from
Myanmar but most exports from Myanmar are under
sanctions in the US. As Myanmar is still grappling with
post-earthquake devastation and civil conflict analysts
suggest that the tariff’s immediate economic impact will
be limited. After decades of exposure to sanctions,
Myanmar’s economy has developed a form of “sanctions
immunity”.

See: https://www.orfonline.org/expert-speak/between-quakes-
and-conflicts-china-india-and-myanmar-s-shaky-corridors

Post-earthquake assessment: rising debt and conflict
risks
The 28 March earthquake devastated Myanmar’s Sagaing
Region near Mandalay, affecting 17 million people across
57 townships and critically impacting 9 million. As of
early April, 3,471 deaths and 4,671 injuries were reported,
with 214 people missing.

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) estimates
that the earthquake caused damages exceeding US$10
billion, approximately 70% of Myanmar’s GDP.
Emergency declarations were issued across six regions,
and international aid was mobilised with China pledging
the largest package of US$14 million, followed by
contributions from India, the UK, the US and Singapore.
UN agencies allocated emergency aid.

It has been suggested that the disaster has jeopardised
major Chinese investments in Myanmar under the China-
Myanmar Economic Corridor (CMEC) including the
Letpadaung copper mine, Tagaung nickel project and the
oil and gas pipelines. Projects such as the Muse-
Mandalay-Kyaukphyu railway and Alpha Cement plant in
Madaya also face potential delays.

India’s strategic India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral
Highway (IMT-TH) suffered significant damage with key
structures such as the Ava Bridge being destroyed.

Meanwhile, Myanmar’s external debt, standing at
US$12.1 billion in 2024, is set to increase as
reconstruction needs grow. Rising reconstruction
borrowing could deepen the country’s financial
vulnerabilities.

See: https://www.orfonline.org/expert-speak/between-quakes-
and-conflicts-china-india-and-myanmar-s-shaky-corridors

UNICEF's dire warning
In a press release UNICEF has issued a stark warning that
millions of children are at grave risk following Myanmar’s
deadliest earthquake in decades. The earthquake and
aftershocks caused widespread destruction across central
Myanmar Homes, schools, hospitals and infrastructure
were heavily damaged across Mandalay, Nay Pyi Taw,
Sagaing, Bago and Shan regions.

UNICEF says “Myanmar is one of the most complex
humanitarian emergencies globally. Even before the
earthquake, over 6.5 million children were in need of
assistance, with one in three displaced people a child. Yet,
the humanitarian response remains critically underfunded,
with less than 10 per cent of the 2025 Humanitarian
Action for Children appeal received to date”.

UNICEF is calling for urgent funding to scale up the
delivery of life-saving support to children and families
affected by the earthquake including clean water, medical
care, protection, psychosocial support, and emergency
education.

See: https://www.unicef.org/press-releases/millions-children-
grave-risk-following-myanmars-deadliest-earthquake-decades

6. INDIA

  Imports of panels - almost zero
The correspondent writes “the market is slow but
stable. Imports of panel products such as plywood, MDF,
particleboard and decorative panels have almost stopped
as exporters have not yet been assessed as meeting the
recent Quality Control Order (OCO) with only a few mills
in Nepal and one in Thailand and one company in
Malaysia have secured a licence. Several 100 applications
are still pending from overseas manufacturer-suppliers and
there is a lot of distress among importers“.

Over the past decade the Central government has
mandated higher standards for production and imports of a
wide range of products such items. The recent mandatory
QCO for wood products is one of the latest.

QCOs, notified by government departments in
consultation with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS),
are compulsory in nature unlike the numerous other
standards prescribed by the BIS. Though the government
has said QCOs have been imposed to ensure the quality of
products, protection of human, animal and plant health,
and prevention of deceptive practices, the domestic
industry speaks of the burden the measures entail.

The QCO for wood panels applies to both domestic
production and imports and has been identified as likely to
increase production costs. India’s overseas trade partners
view the recent QCO as a trade barrier.

QCOs are covered under the Technical Barriers to Trade
(TBT) agreement at the WTO which aims to ensure that
technical regulations, standards and conformity
assessment procedures are non-discriminatory and do not
create unnecessary obstacles to trade. The TBT Agreement
strongly encourages members to base their measures on
international standards to create a predictable trading
environment.

See: https://www.rediff.com/business/report/quality-control-
orders-what-does-this-mean-for-domestic-
industry/20240425.htm

PlyReporter, the Indian panel sector trade journal, has said
the domestic manufacturing industry has largely
welcomed the QCO implementation as step forward in
standardising made-in-India products to promote export
oriented industries. PlyReporter idenifies some problems
for small-scale plywood manufacturers which are not in a
position to upgrade production to meet the new standards
desite the grace period granted to small companies

As of April it is reported only around 35% of the small
plywood manufactuerers have secured a license. The other
65% of the around 3,300 mills are awaitng processing of
their applications. Also, says PlyReporter, there are many
particleboard and MDF manufacurers preparing the
required documentation.

See: https://www.plyreporter.com/magazine-March-2025

Training, capacity building and worker certification in
construction and real estate sectors
The Confederation of Real Estate Developers Association
of India (CREDAI) recently signed a MoU with the
National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) and the
Quality Council of India (QCI) to establish a collaborative
framework for skill training, capacity building and worker
certification in the construction and real estate sector.

Under the partnership all parties pledge to enhance
workforce development in the real estate sector through a
structured focus on skill development, capacity building
and sustainable employment.

The collaboration aims to deliver industry-aligned training
programs with quality assurance through certification,
support Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) to validate
existing skills and drive workforce integration by
promoting job placements and modern construction
practices including green building techniques.

The MoU was signed at an event introducing Mr. Shekhar
G. Patel as the new president of CREDAI for the term
2025-27.

A move to net-zero buildings
During the ceremony CREDAI launched a report prepared
in collaboration with Colliers titled ‘Sustainability in Real
Estate: Towards a Greener Skyline’. The report highlights
India’s path to green growth and development and a shift
towards net-zero buildings.

According to the report, 66% of India’s Grade A office
stock is now green certified with cities like Hyderabad
leading at 75% penetration. The industrial and logistics
sector is also embracing sustainability. The report further
underscores a massive retrofitting opportunity for aging
office spaces.

With 80% of future office demand expected in green
spaces and rising consumer preference for eco-friendly
homes, India’s real estate sector is poised to drive the
nation’s 2070 net-zero target through innovation, policy
alignment and stakeholder collaboration, said the CREDAI
president.

See: https://www.credai.org/media/view-details/571
and
https://www.colliers.com/en-in/research/sustainability-in-real-
estate-report




Plywood
The recently announced price increases have now been
introduced.

7. VIETNAM

  Wood and Wood Product (W&WP) trade highlights
Statistics from the Customs Department show that in
March W&WP exports reached US$1.47 billion, up 44%
compared to February 2025 and up 13% compared to
March 2024.

WP exports earned US$1.01 billion, up 52% compared to
February 2025 and up 14% compared to March 2024.

In the first 3 months of 2025 W&WP exports earned about
US$3.9 billion, up 11% over the same period in 2024.

In March W&WP exports to the Spain were valued
US$9.3 million, up 80% compared to March 2024. In the
first 3 months of 2025 W&WP exports to Spain stood at
US$21.8 million, up 8% over the same period in 2024.

In the first quarter of 2025 exports of kitchen furniture
amounted to US$100 million, down 11% compared to
March 2024. In the first 3 months of 2025 exports of
kitchen furniture were US$281 million, down 3% over the
same period in 2024.

Raw wood imports from China in March were about
100,000 cu.m, worth US$30.0 million, up 13% in volume
and 7% in value compared to February 2025 bringing the
total import of raw wood from China in the first 3 months
of 2025 to 314,195 cu.m, worth US$92.48 million, up
90% in volume and 46% in value over the same period in
2024.

Exports of bedroom and dining room furniture in March
fetched US$250 million, up 12% compared to March
2024. In the first 3 months of 2025 exports of bedroom
and dining room furniture were valued at US$639.2
million, up 7% over the same period in 2024.

Vietnam's W&WP imports in March 2025 reached
US$261.8 million, up 26% compared to February 2025
and up 35% compared to March 2024. In the first 3
months of 2025 imports of W&WP reached US$667.7
million, up 25% over the same period in 2024.

The imports of raw wood (log and lumber) from the US in
March 2025 totalled 75,000 cu.m at a value of US$30.0
million, an increase of 24% in volume and 20% in value
compared to February 2025 and an increase of 10% in
volume and 1% in value over the same period in 2024.

In the first quarter of 2025 imports of raw wood from the
US reached 197,740 cu.m, with a value of US$78.67
million, up 39% in volume and 28% in value over the
same period in 2024.

Viet Nam’s wood industry is setting its sights on reaching
an ambitious export target of US$18 billion in 2025

Setting sights on US$18 billion exports
Growing international regulations on legally sourced
agricultural and forestry products are presenting new
challenges.

To stay competitive and mitigate trade risks, Vietnamese
exporters are being urged to improve supply chain
governance, embrace green production standards and
invest in sustainable development.

According to trade analysts policy shifts in major markets
such as the US and the EU can reshape the landscape for
wood and timber product exports. The US is expected to
implement stricter trade protection measures in 2025,
adding pressure on Vietnamese exporters who currently
send over 50% of their wood-related exports to the
American market.

As Vietnam stands as the US’s fourth-largest export
market in ASEAN and its eighth-largest global trading
partner, the stakes are high. Concerns are growing over the
risk of punitive tariffs or trade barriers if exporters cannot
meet strict traceability requirements.

In the EU the recently extended EU Deforestation
Regulation (EUDR) poses a similar challenge. Now
scheduled to come into effect at the end of 2025 for large
companies and mid-2026 for small and medium-sized
enterprises, the regulation aims to eliminate import of
products linked to deforestation.

Beyond individual markets the potential for broader trade
disputes or disruptions to global supply chains could
further impact Vietnam’s wood product exports. This
makes agility and preparedness a top priority for industry
stakeholders.

The Vietnam Timber and Forest Product Association
(VIFOREST) has identified both opportunities and
challenges ahead. It noted that global trends favour
sustainable materials in construction and interior design
creating new prospects for Vietnamese wood exporters
that can meet eco-conscious demand.

According to Tran Quang Bao, Director General of the
Forestry and Forest Protection Department under the
Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development,
strengthening raw material areas is key to achieving long-
term sustainability.

This includes expanding large timber plantations and
forests certified by FSC or PEFC standards. In the short
term, pilot programmes to assign traceability codes to
forest areas in Northern provinces are underway and
expected to be rolled out nationwide.

These traceability codes are seen as a cornerstone for
developing a legal timber supply chain that aligns with
international requirements.

They also support Vietnam’s efforts to quantify carbon
sequestration potential, contributing to climate goals. Ngo
Sy Hoai, Vice Chairman and Secretary General of
VIFOREST, emphasised that competitiveness is vital to
survive in the current environment.

He noted that both the government and private sector are
stepping up efforts to promote sustainable forest
certification and adopt advanced traceability technologies.

Exporters are encouraged to invest in digital supply chain
management, improve product design and branding and
adopt environmentally compliant production processes.
Ensuring legal origins, meeting design preferences and
offering competitive pricing will be essential to
maintaining and growing market share.

Close cooperation between businesses, industry
associations and government agencies is seen as essential
to navigating the evolving regulatory landscape. One of
the key tools in this regard is the verification of product
origin which helps prevent trade fraud and supports
compliance with importing countries’ rules.

Legal capacity building, risk management improvements
and adherence to international environmental standards are
also needed to strengthen Vietnam’s position in global
timber trade.

See: https://en.vietnamplus.vn/vietnams-forestry-sector-ramps-
up-competitiveness-to-meet-export-targets-post313257.vnp

Vietnam’s wood exports surge but face mounting
headwinds
Vietnam’s wood industry is now bracing for a tariff storm
as the United States is set to impose a 46% reciprocal tariff
on Vietnamese goods.

The United States remained Vietnam’s largest export
market for wood and wood products making up 53% of
total exports. Japan and China followed, accounting for
13% and 11%, respectively.

Despite this robust performance the wood sector continues
to grapple with considerable challenges.

A large proportion of Vietnam’s wood businesses are
small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), many of
them family-run operations. These firms are particularly
vulnerable to market fluctuations and often struggle with
the modernisation of production and processing
technologies.

Supply-side constraints also persist. Vietnam lacks a stable
domestic supply of large-diameter wood forcing
companies to rely heavily on imports. This dependency
not only inflates production costs but also diminishes the
competitiveness of Vietnamese wood products in global
markets.

Additionally, while demand remains steady in core export
destinations, Vietnam’s wood exports remain overly
concentrated in a few key markets posing long-term risks.

US tariffs threaten industry outlook
Ngo Si Hoai, Vice President and Secretary-General of
Vietnam Timber and Forest Product Association (Viforest)
has recently addressed the mounting challenges and urged
businesses to prepare for market headwinds.

Among the most pressing concerns is the US
government’s decision to impose a 46% reciprocal tariff
on Vietnamese imports. This move would directly impact
Vietnam’s agricultural and wood product exports to the
US, Vietnam’s most valuable export market for
agricultural, forestry and seafood products.

The stakes are especially high for the wood sector which
generated the largest trade surplus among Vietnam’s
agricultural exports to the US. Over the past four years,
US imports of Vietnamese wood products have
consistently ranged from US$7–9 billion annually,
accounting for over 50% of Vietnam’s total wood product
exports. In contrast, Vietnam imports (mostly logs and
lumbers) were only around US$300-350 million.

The sudden announcement of a 46% tariff - nearly double
the 25% that was previously anticipated - has shocked the
industry.

Broader strategy needed beyond the US
One of the key strategies being pursued by Vietnam’s
agriculture ministry is to prove the complementary, not
competitive, nature of US and Vietnamese agricultural
products, including wood. This argument is central to
ongoing trade negotiations.

At a recent meeting with the US Ambassador, Vietnam’s
Minister of Agriculture and Environment, Do Duc Duy,
emphasised that the two countries' agricultural exports are
mutually supportive and should not be seen as adversarial.
He also affirmed Vietnam’s openness to importing more
U.S. agricultural goods.

To that end, Viforest in coordination with local trade
associations, exporters and relevant ministries, is
preparing to participate in upcoming hearings. Their goal:
to demonstrate that Vietnam-U.S. wood trade is mutually
beneficial and poses no threat to the U.S. domestic
industry.

Still, Hoai cautioned that diplomacy alone may not suffice:
“We need to do more than just talk. The key now is for
Vietnamese agencies and enterprises to consider
increasing imports of U.S. wood products in order to
rebalance trade and underscore the benefits of
cooperation.”

Beyond immediate responses to U.S. tariff threats, Hoai
urges businesses to diversify their export markets.

Another critical area is raw material sourcing. To build a
strong and competitive wood industry capable of meeting
international demand, businesses must invest in
sustainable, legal timber supplies with forest management
certification. This is essential not only for increasing
export orders but also for meeting the country’s broader
sustainability goals, said Hoai.

See: https://wtocenter.vn/chuyen-de/27554-vietnams-wood-
exports-surge-in-early-2025-but-face-mounting-headwinds

Increasing imports of US timber to boost processing
and re-exports
China’s suspension of log and sawn timber imports from
the United States valued at around US$2 billion annually
is seen as an opportunity for Viet Nam’s wood.

In 2024, Viet Nam imported US$316.36 million worth of
timber from the US, a 33% increase over 2023
representing 11% of the country’s total timber import
value. The three main products included sawnwood, logs
and veneer.

The Vice Chairman and Secretary General of the Vietnam
Timber and Forest Products Association (VIFORES) Ngô
Sỹ Hoài emphasised that US timber consistently meets
legality standards required in major export markets EU.

Viet Nam is the second-largest supplier of wooden
furniture to the US accounting for around 40% of total
wooden furniture imports.

Currently, domestic timber production cannot meet the
industry’s needs leaving Viet Nam heavily reliant on
imports. Of the country’s US$2.81 billion worth of wood
and wood product imports in 2024, raw timber (HS code
44) accounted for 85%. Logs and sawnwood remain the
core products.

Despite trade uncertainties, many wood businesses remain
resilient and hopeful about the Government’s ongoing
negotiations. It is reported that Viet Nam will waive
import duties on timber shipments from the US.

In the long term, VIFORES has proposed that the
Government continue supporting businesses through fiscal
and monetary policies previously applied during the
COVID-19 period including tax deferrals, rent reductions
and debt restructuring to help the industry navigate current
challenges.

See:https://vietnamnews.vn/economy/1695612/viet-nam-aims-to-
increase-imports-of-us-timber-to-boost-wood-processing-and-re-
exports.html 

8. BRAZIL

  Native timbers - a sustainable solution for civil
construction
At the Civil Construction Fair (FEICON) 2025, a leading
construction industry trade fair in Latin America the forest
sector, Mato Grosso highlighted the potential of native
timber species as a sustainable and technically viable
alternative for civil construction.

Represented by the Center of Timber Producing and
Exporting Industries of the State of Mato Grosso (CIPEM)
the sector advocated the repositioning of wood from
natural forests as a sustainable material suitable for a wide
range of building types, from structural components to
finishing which, says CIPEM, would deliver significant
benefits for the decarbonising the construction industry.

CIPEM also highlighted the potential for using wood from
natural forests in social housing projects, advocating its
inclusion in public policies and housing finance
mechanisms.

Currently, Caixa Econômica Federal, the main federal
financial institution supporting low-income housing in
Brazil, does not finance wooden houses. The first step to
change this mindset would be legislation.

Backed by sustainable forest management practices,
traceability and internationally recognised quality
standards, wood from natural forests of Mato Grosso State
was presented as a modern, ecological and economically
viable solution for the future of civil construction in
Brazil.

See: https://www.remade.com.br/noticias/20637/madeira-nativa-
de-mato-grosso-se-destaca-como-solucao-sustentavel-para-a-
construcao-civil

New populations of Brazilwood identified
Recent research has significantly advanced the
understanding of Paubrasilia echinata (Brazilwood), the
iconic species of Brazil. A researcher from the Rio de
Janeiro Botanical Garden discovered 12 new populations
of the species in natural forests, bringing the total to 17 in
the state of Rio de Janeiro alone. It is as if Brazilwood,
once considered nearly extinct, has been rediscovery.

Although scientists are still working toward a complete
understanding of the species effective strategies for its
preservation are already known, the creation of protected
areas/conservation units being one such measure.

Previous studies had already identified morphological
variations among different Brazilwood populations,
grouped into three main lineages known as "arruda
"laranja" and "café" each occurring in specific areas of the
Atlantic Forest in the states of Rio de Janeiro, Bahia and
Espírito Santo, respectively.

Private and agroforestry projects feature Brazilwood in
"cabruca" systems in the state of Bahia and have
demonstrated the potential of the species. A study by the
Federal University of Espírito Santo focuses on planted
Brazilwood trees aiming to identify the most suitable
specimens for harvesting.

IBAMA (Brazilian Institute of Environment and
Renewable Natural Resources) has stated that it will
decide in the coming months whether to propose the
inclusion of Brazilwood in Appendix I of CITES
(Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species
of Wild Fauna and Flora).

This would completely ban the international use of
Brazilwood and prevent musicians traveling with violin
bows or any other musical instruments made from this
wood.

Currently, Brazilwood is listed in Appendix II, which
allows trade if it can be proven that the wood was legally
harvested. Biologist Haroldo Lima, from the Rio de
Janeiro Botanical Garden, highlighted the importance of
regularising existing stockpiles (as has been done abroad)
and providing security for farmers who plant and own
plantation of Brazilwood.

See:
https://globorural.globo.com/agricultura/noticia/2025/04/pesquis
as-ajudam-o-pais-a-redescobrir-o-ameacado-pau-brasil.ghtml
and
https://revistagloborural.pressreader.com/globo-rural/

Export update
In March 2025 Brazilian exports of wood-based products
(except pulp and paper) increased 18% in value compared
to March 2024, from US$286.7 million to US$339.4
million.

Pine sawnwood exports increased 45% in value between
March 2024 (US$43.7 million) and March 2025 (US$63.4
million). In volume, exports increased 40% over the same
period, from 188,400 cu.m to 263,100 cu.m.

Tropical sawnwood exports increased 44% in volume,
from 16,500 cu.m in March 2024 to 23,700 cu.m in March
2025. In value, exports increased 25% from US$7.6
million to US$9.5 million over the same period.

Pine plywood exports increased 35% in value in March
2025 compared to March 2024 from US$68.9 million to
US$93.0 million. In volume, exports increased 43% over
the same period from 208,800 cu.m to 298,700 cu.m.

As for tropical plywood, exports increased in volume 42%
and in value 25% from 1,900 cu.m and US$1.2 million in
March 2024 to 2,700 cu.m and US$1.5 million in March
2025 respectively.

As for wooden furniture the exported value increased from
US$45.5 million in March 2024 to US$54.4 million in
March 2025, an increase of 20%.

Climate Fund supports degraded Amazon restoration
The Brazilian Development Bank (BNDES) has approved
the first reforestation initiative under the National Climate
Change Fund (New Climate Fund) aimed at forest
restoration with a total value of R$100 million.

Of this total, R$80 million is from the Climate Fund with
another R$20 million from the BNDES Finem credit line.
The funds will be allocated to Mombak, a startup
specialised in carbon removal which will invest to reforest
degraded areas in the Amazon. The project focuses on
biodiversity recovery and large-scale carbon sequestration.

The initiative aims to generate high-integrity carbon
credits and foster the local economy by generating jobs
and boosting the reforestation value chain.

The targeted area includes part of the Restoration Arc, a
region considered priority for forest restoration efforts and
will contribute to Brazil´s goal of restoring 6 million
hectares by 2030. The Climate Fund, a key instrument of
Brazil’s National Climate Change Policy and was
restructured by the federal government and is linked to the
Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change (MMA).

See: https://forestnews.com.br/bndes-fundo-clima-desembolsa-r-
100-milhoes-para-restauracao-florestal-com-mombak/

Through the eyes of industry
The latest GTI report lists the challenges identified by the
private sector in Brazil.

https://www.itto-
ggsc.org/static/upload/file/20250418/1744957176173218.pdf

9. PERU

  Exports exceeded US$8.5 million but crashed 31%
The Center for Global Economy and Business Research of
CIEN-ADEX Exporters Association has reported export
shipments of wood products totalled US$8.5 million in the
first two months of 2025 representing a decrease of 31%
compared to the same month in 2024 (US$12.4 million).

According tothe ADEX Data Trade Trade Intelligence
System the products were sawnwood (US$4.1 million),
firewood and charcoal (US$1.7 million), semi-
manufactured products (US$1.1 million), construction
products (US$626,000) and furniture and parts
(US$483,000).

The main destination was the Dominican Republic with
shipments totalling US$2.0 million, a 32% increase
compared to the previous year. Vietnam followed with
US$1.8 million, an increase of 118% compared to 2024,
Mexico with US$1.4 million, an increase of 10%, the
United States with US$1.1 million, a decrease of 20% and
China at US$455,000, a decrease of 78%.

Tools to measure illegal logging - a study led by
OSINFOR
With the aim of strengthening the fight against illegal
logging and providing key data to combat illegal logging
the Presidency of the Council of Ministers (PCM)
commissioned the Forest and Wildlife Resources
Supervisory Agency (OSINFOR) to conduct a study
"Estimating and Improving the Legality of Timber in
Peru" to measure the rate of illegal logging in the country.

This year, this work will be carried out in coordination
with the National Forest and Wildlife Service (SERFOR)
and regional forestry authorities.

During the launch ceremony Mabel Gálvez, representative
of the Secretariat of Decentralisation of the PCM,
highlighted the importance of this study. “It is essential
that OSINFOR continue this work as results will allow us
to understand the impact of illegal logging, design new
strategies and boost the supply of legal forest products
thus increasing the competitiveness of the sector”, she
stated.

For his part, the Head of OSINFOR, Williams Arellano
Olano, emphasised the value of this new approach saying
“it allows us to precisely identify the areas where illegality
is increasing or decreasing. This information is key to
making better decisions and confronting this scourge more
effectively.” .

Arellano also highlighted the coordinated work with ten
regional governments, SERFOR and other entities such as
the Superintendency of Banking and Insurance and the
Pension Fund Administrators (SBS) which are
contributing to the study.

See: https://www.gob.pe/institucion/osinfor/noticias/1146395-
peru-afina-herramientas-para-medir-la-tala-ilegal-de-madera-
con-estudio-liderado-por-el-osinfor

OSINFOR and the Army seek to work together for
forests
In a joint effort to contribute to the conservation of forests
and mitigate the effects of climate change the Forest and
Wildlife Resources Oversight Agency (OSINFOR) and the
Environmental Management Sub-directorate of the
Peruvian Army are promoting an inter-institutional
agreement to intensify surveillance in hard-to-reach areas
and develop capacities to promote the sustainable use of
natural resources.

During an initial meeting the Head of OSINFOR,
Williams Arellano Olano and the Deputy Director of
Environmental Management Support, Lieutenant Colonel,
E.P. Nelson Yvan Meza Romero, recognised the need to
sign an agreement to strengthen surveillance and control
of Peruvian forests located in OSINFOR and Army
intervention zones as well as to conduct joint operations to
combat illegal activities that affect forest and wildlife
resources which put at risk the benefits forests provide to
communities and the environment.

See: https://www.gob.pe/institucion/osinfor/noticias/1158445-
osinfor-y-el-ejercito-buscan-trabajar-juntos-por-los-bosques