Ghana to Launch FLEGT-Licensed Timber Exports to EU in October 2025

The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Mr. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has announced that Ghana’s Forest Law Enforcement, Governance, and Trade (FLEGT) licensed timber will enter the European market on the 8th of October 2025.

This milestone marks the culmination of a 16-year journey to strengthen forest governance, ensure timber legality, and promote sustainable trade.

He announced this during the 13th Session of the Joint Monitoring and Review Mechanism between the Government of Ghana and the European Union (EU) on Wednesday in Accra.

“This accomplishment positions Ghana as the first African nation, and the second globally, after Indonesia, to implement this internationally recognised licensing scheme,” he said.

The Minister highlighted Ghana’s extensive efforts, which included revising forestry laws, investing in advanced wood-tracking systems, training industry stakeholders, and engaging local communities.

He added that these measures guarantee that all timber exported from Ghana meets the highest standards of legality and traceability.

Mr. Buah also urged the Forestry Commission to intensify reforestation efforts, specifically citing President John Mahama’s Tree for Life Reforestation Initiative, which seeks to restore degraded lands and expand commercial tree plantations to ease pressure on natural forests.

The EU Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Irchad Razaaly, commended Ghana’s unwavering determination.

He stressed that the October launch is not merely a change in date but the outcome of “a long chain of commitment, responsibility, and political support” from both Ghana and the EU.

He further underscored the economic significance of this step, noting, “By guaranteeing legality and sustainability, Ghanaian timber will enjoy unfettered access to the EU market of 450 million people.”

The Ambassador also praised the inclusiveness of the process, recognising the critical roles played by civil society, local communities, and Ghana’s Parliament in the final ratification and conversion of timber leases.

Judith Twumwaa, ISD