Ghana Becomes First African Nation To Export Timber To EU Under FLEGT License

Ghana becomes the first African country and the second in the world after Indonesia to export timber to the European Union (EU) under the Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade (FLEGT) license, marking a major milestone in sustainable forest management. ‎The achievement follows a 16-year reform process that began in 2009 when Ghana signed a Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA) with the EU to ensure only legal and responsibly sourced timber enters the European market.

Speaking on behalf of the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, the Chief Director of the Ministry, Mr. Innocent Haligah, described the move as proof of Ghana’s commitment to protecting its forests and trading responsibly. ‎He said the Ghana Legality Assurance System (GhLAS) will track timber from the forest to the export stage, ensuring full compliance with international standards. Mr. Haligah lauded the support of civil society, the timber industry, and international partners, particularly the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, Palladium, and the European Forest Institute.‎

‎This achievement signals that Ghana is ready to set a global example for sustainable forest management, he said, warning that illegal loggers and galamsey operators will face the full force of the law.‎ ‎Acting Chief Executive of the Forestry Commission, Dr. Hugh Brown, highlighted how the Timber Legality Assurance System (T-LAS) has strengthened governance in the timber sector, bringing more transparency, accountability, and stakeholder involvement.‎ ‎The Chairman of the event, Odeefuo Amoakwa Buadu VIII, President of the Central Regional House of Chiefs, commended all stakeholders for their role in reaching what he described as a historic milestone for the country.

Source: GBConline