At the workshop (Photo: VNA) Hanoi (VNA) - Easing the associated risks in the importation of tropical timber wouldhelp Vietnam maintain its wood exports while expanding the market, a workshopon April 20 heard.
Do Xuan Lap,President of the Association of Vietnam Timber and Forest Products, said Vietnamimports tropical timber from Africa, certain South American countries, Laos,Cambodia, and Papua New Guinea.
Resolution No102/2020-ND-CP on the legality of timber notes the high risk of such timber, asit is imported from areas where illegal deforestation is common, he said.
It therefore requiresthat importers present paperwork proving the timber’s legality as well asmeasures to ease the risks.
According to ToXuan Phuc from the Forest Trends organisation, reducing risks regarding thelegality of imported tropical timber is significant for Vietnam’s woodindustry.
The work must bedone in both policy and reality, he said, stressing the need to tighten themanagement of the import of high-risk timber in line with the resolution, hesaid.
Dao Duy Tam fromthe General Department of Vietnam Customs said it will coordinate with relevantministries and agencies to prevent trade fraud and facilitate the operation ofbusinesses, especially forestry product exporters.
Lap said revenuefrom timber and wood products grew 20 percent in the first quarter of thisyear, adding that if the pace is maintained, the target of 14-14.5 billion USDin export value set by the Government for this year is achievable./.
