Government takes steps to combat illegal timber trade.
The New Zealand Government has announced plans to implement a legal harvest assurance system for the timber industry, aiming to reduce the risk of importing illegally harvested timber and increase international market confidence. Forestry Minister Todd McClay revealed that consultation on operational details began today.
The new system is designed to address global market demands for verifiable assurances by providing exporters with a streamlined pathway to meet requirements. Key objectives include reducing trade in illicitly sourced timber, ensuring imported timber meets legal harvest standards, and supporting international efforts to combat illegal logging.
Consultation on the system's operational details will run until 26 February 2025, after which feedback will be used to shape final recommendations. The Ministry for Primary Industries' website has been made available with further information and consultation details. Implementation is expected by August 2027.