The GTF concept was first unveiled by the European Timber Trade Federation at the Global Wood Mart in Malaysia last autumn.
It was billed as a new “international communication and discussion platform” aimed at improving networking and communication across the sector and strengthening its market presence and political profile.
The launch meeting was co-convened by ETTF and other backers of the initiative; the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organisation (UNFAO) and The Forest Trust’s Timber Trade Action Plan (TFT/TTAP).
It was held at the UNFAO’s Rome headquarters. ETTF secretary-general André de Boer said that the inspiration for the initiative was the growing number of issues, from climate change, and sustainable development, to anti-illegal logging measures, where the timber sector increasingly needs to speak with a coherent single voice.
UNFAO forestry officer, trade and marketing Jukka Tissari, said it could also back his organisation’s mission to develop a “common vision” in efforts against illegal logging.
GTF initiator and facilitator on behalf of the ETTF Rachel Butler said it was a response to an industry need.
“I’ve found strong support worldwide for a new global communication and facilitating network, and this is just what the GTF will be,” she said. “It will act as an enabler; promoting collaboration and innovation and helping access more funding for the private sector.”
Delegates saw a role for the GTF in helping the industry cope with the proliferation of anti-illegal timber legislation worldwide by promoting greater coordination between the different criteria of the various national and international legislation.
It was also seen as a channel for sharing marketing expertise and developing common international promotional themes. Helping exploit timber’s potential in the fast growing ‘green building’ market was discussed as another potential role.
At the close of the event, seven-strong panel, representing the different continents and China, was selected to formulate a letter of commitment for sending to other potential backers and participants.
The ETTF also committed to fund further initial development of the GTF, with the launch of a website and appointment of an advisory board proposed. The aim is then to secure wider industry sponsorship.
ETTF president Andreas von Möller said the launch highlighted the appetite for greater co-operation in the industry.
“Now we must ensure we make this a constant dialogue,” he said.
