Forestry association gets tough on PNG logging

A tracking system is being introduced by Papua New Guinea’s Forest Industries Association to detect any timber exports from illegal logging. A Swiss company, which already works for the government, will carry out the checks.

Accusations that illegally logged wood is shipped out through Port Moresby have been made regularly. The association hopes the new system will clean up the industry’s image.

The association’s policy has been welcomed by the Australian Timber Importers’ Federation and also by Senator Eric Abetz, Australia’s fisheries, forestry and conservation minister.