VIENTIANE (Xinhua): Laos is developing its forest certification system for plantation timber to increase the value of its wood products and drive socio-economic development toward a self-reliant economy.
Laos' Ministry of Agriculture and Environment on Thursday held a meeting of the committee responsible for developing the country's forest certification system, which was chaired by Lao Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Environment Kikeo Singnavong, according to the ministry's report on Friday.
The meeting focused on developing a sustainable forest certification system and aligning Lao standards with international norms.
A recognized certification system will allow Lao wood products to enter high-value global markets, boost incomes for farmers, tree growers and entrepreneurs, and support socio-economic development and economic self-reliance.
In his speech, Kikeo emphasized the need to refine the draft certification system and related legislation to ensure it is rigorous and practical. He urged businesses and the wood processing industry to upgrade their management systems and production chains to meet the new standards, while continuing international cooperation and technical support.
The Lao government has consistently prioritized forestry. The Forestry Strategy to 2035 and Vision to 2050 set clear targets, including defining forest land, increasing forest cover to 70 percent of the country, and promoting the registration and certification of plantation forests to verify ownership and timber sources. -- Xinhua
