News archive 2020
Ghana’s forest management makes strides through Social Responsibility Agreements
In Ghana, traditional customs and practices – such as ‘taboo’ days when no one enters the forest – have helped to protect forests through the ages. But these practices have not always...
The Republic of the Congo and the EU release 2019 annual report on VPA progress
The Republic of the Congo and the EU release 2019 annual report on VPA progress The Republic of the Congo and the EU have released a joint report on progress in implementing the...
COVID-19 takes a heavy toll on Myanmar’s wood-based micro and small businesses
COVID-19 takes a heavy toll on Myanmar’s wood-based micro and small businesses The COVID-19 pandemic is exacting a devastating toll on wood-based micro, small and medium enterprises...
Supporting forest- and timber-based MSMEs in the Mekong region to operate legally and sustainably
Micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are a vehicle for development and generate almost half of jobs in the formal forest sector globally. They are key to local economies, generating...
EFI seeks a Land-Use Governance Expert
The European Forest Institute (EFI) is seeking Land-Use Governance Expert to reinforce the EU REDD Facility and its portfolio in Africa. The position is based at EFI’s office in Barcelona, Spain.
Highlighting strengths and challenges of Indonesia’s Sustainable Forest Management Standard as a mechanism for increased sustainability
A recent study explores the environmental credentials and performance of the Indonesian sustainable forest management standard known as the PHPL (Pengelolaan Hutan Produksi Lestari). Conducted by...
Trees give small farmers in Thailand access to loans
The EU FLEGT Facility has published a story describing how farmers in Thailand are starting to reap the benefits from international timber trade talks between Thailand and the European Union.
Update on recent developments in Indonesia
On 27 February 2020, Indonesia's Ministry of Trade (MoT) issued Regulation No 15/2020 on the export of forestry products. Subsequently, on 13 March 2020, the Coordinating Ministry for Economic...
Recognising Indonesian V-legal documents in China: Exploring the options
Under its Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA) with the European Union, Indonesia issues export licences attesting to the legality of its timber shipments to non-EU markets. These “V-Legal...
Evaluation of EU rules on illegal logging: public feedback opportunity
The European Commission has invited public feedback on EU action to tackle illegal logging - the harvesting of wood in contravention of the laws and regulations.
South-east Asian countries share progress to tackle illegal logging and its associated trade
The 7th Regional Training Workshop on Timber Legality Assurance took place from 19 to 21 November 2019 in Jakarta, Indonesia. Participants discussed their efforts to tackle illegal logging and its...
Valérie Merckx to lead EU FLEGT and REDD Facilities
Valérie Merckx has been appointed as Head of the FLEGT and REDD Unit, and will start in her position immediately.
Strong law enforcement drives responsible timber businesses in Ghana
The EU FLEGT Facility has published a story reporting how law enforcement and continuous checks on operators are transforming business practices in Ghana’s timber sector.