Gabon timber industry executives have been told that about 500,000-600,000m³ of logs can potentially be exported before a deadline for a log export ban comes into force, according to the latest International Tropical Timber Organisation market report.
The figures represent the amount of logs already cut in the forest, in timber yards and those currently being transported.
Those logs at ports or in storage yards can be exported to fulfill existing contracts, but others can only be shipped by a state agency. After April 30, no logs can be exported.
The government wants to see more downstream processing, with more emphasis on mouldings, components and semi-finished products.
