Ghana initiates licensing for sustainable timber exports to EU by June

The Ghanaian government has announced significant advancements in its efforts to combat deforestation and illegal mining, marking a pivotal moment in sustainable forest management. By June 30, 2025, Ghana will issue flat licenses for timber and timber products destined for the European Union, positioning itself as the first African nation and the second globally to export legally sourced timber from responsibly managed forests to the EU market. This initiative aims to enhance governance practices and promote sustainable livelihoods through education and stakeholder engagement.

During the Forum on Forests 2025, representatives from Cote D'Ivoire shared their commitment to expanding forest cover to 20% of their national territory. They highlighted the recent ratification of a voluntary partnership agreement with the European Union, aimed at regulating forestry practices and combating illegal timber trade. This agreement, effective May 1, 2025, will facilitate the development of a national system for verifying the legality and traceability of timber, ensuring sustainable forest management.

The United Kingdom also reaffirmed its dedication to halting deforestation and forest degradation by 2030, emphasizing the importance of international collaboration in achieving these goals. The UK government aims to integrate global forest objectives into broader development and climate agendas, building on its leadership during the COP 26 summit.

These discussions at the Forum underscore a collective commitment among nations to enhance forest governance and sustainability, with tangible actions set to unfold in the coming months. The outcomes of these initiatives are expected to significantly impact local communities and global efforts to preserve forest ecosystems.