Ghana has officially declared that its Forest Law Enforcement, Governance, and Trade (FLEGT) licensed timber will be available in the European market starting October 8, 2025.
This signifies a historic achievement, concluding a 16-year endeavor to enhance forest governance, guarantee timber legality, and foster sustainable trade.
The announcement was made by the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, during the 13th Session of the Joint Monitoring and Review Mechanism between the Government of Ghana and the European Union (EU) on Wednesday, August 27, 2025.
This success establishes Ghana as the first African country and the second worldwide, following Indonesia, to adopt this internationally recognized licensing scheme.
The minister elaborated on Ghana’s comprehensive initiatives, which involved amending forestry regulations, investing in sophisticated wood-tracking technologies, training industry participants, and involving local communities.
These actions ensure that all timber exported from Ghana adheres to the highest standards of legality and traceability.
Armah-Kofi Buah conveyed deep appreciation to the joint technical teams, civil society organizations, and the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) for their essential support.
He also acknowledged the EU Ambassador to Ghana, Irchad Razaaly, for his crucial leadership throughout this process.
Looking forward, the Minister urged the Forestry Commission to enhance reforestation efforts, specifically emphasizing President John Mahama’s “Tree for Life” Reforestation Initiative.
This flagship program is designed to rehabilitate degraded lands and significantly increase commercial tree plantations to alleviate pressure on natural forests.
In his statements, the EU Ambassador to Ghana, Irchad Razaaly, praised Ghana’s steadfast resolve. He highlighted that the October launch signifies more than just a change of date; it represents the culmination of “a long chain of commitment, responsibility, and political support” from both Ghana and the EU.
He pointed out the substantial economic potential this presents, asserting, “By ensuring legality and sustainability, Ghanaian timber will have unrestricted access to the EU market of 450 million individuals.”
The Ambassador further acknowledged the inclusivity of the process, appreciating the essential contributions made by civil society, local communities, and Ghana’s Parliament in the ultimate ratification and transformation of timber leases.
With this significant milestone, Ghana reinforces its international standing as a leader in sustainable forest management, opening up new avenues for trade, job creation, and environmental preservation.
