The Japan-based International Tropical Timber Organisation (ITTO) has temporarily closed until March 21 because of the recent earthquake.
The organisation said the closure was a precautionary measure and designed for the safety of its staff. Operations are set to resume on March 22.
It has also suspended its mid-March market report, a service which gives latest information on tropical timber markets throughout the world.
“ITTO has been receiving messages from our friends all over the world expressing their sympathies for the suffering of the people of Japan and also care for the safety of our staff,” it said. “We are most appreciative.”
ITTO executive director Emmanuel Ze Meka said all its staff were safe and accounted for following the earthquake.
The organisation’s offices are in Yokohoma, near Tokyo and were undamaged by the earthquake.
