The groundwork is being laid in Fiji to gain certification demonstrating the country’s forests are sustainably managed.
Fisheries and Forests minister Solomone Naivalu said committees have been set up and a package for forest resources, including mahogany is being prepared.
He added that the government is mindful of the need for Fiji’s mahogany products to penetrate the high-value export markets – but to do so certification is required.
The government is also looking at a scheme to encourage village communities to establish their own plantations for mahogany and other valuable species such as sandalwood.
To boost the industry, the government is establishing a timber industry centre and work has already started on the construction of a school at Nasinu. A priority will be to train landowners in all aspects of the mahogany industry.
