An estimated US$88,000-460,000 worth of rosewood is being harvested illegally every day in Madagascar, according to a new report by two environmental groups.
Global Witness and the Environmental Investigation Agency’s (EIA) report says 30-115m³ of the wood is being stolen from national parks and protected areas in the country’s north-east, following political turmoil earlier this year.
EIA estimates 1,000m³ of high-value hardwoods, including ebony, are thought to leave the country each month, with 100-200 rare trees cut down each day.
It claims the demand for expensive rosewood furniture in China is driving the majority of the trade. Smaller amounts are sold to Europe and the US for use in musical instruments.
Both groups are calling on the Madagascan government to repeal decrees which authorise the export of illegal wood by registered companies. They say these rules are actively encouraging the felling to continue.
