Inception workshop to launch work on sustainable conservation of teak forests and supply chains in the Mekong

Teak (Tectona grandis) is one of the world’s most important and valuable hardwoods because of its outstanding physical and aesthetic qualities. Natural or planted teak forests are found in about 70 tropical countries in Africa, Asia and Latin America, and teakwood production and processing has enormous potential to contribute to the livelihoods of local communities and the economic development of nations. Therefore, the International Topical Timber Council (at its 53rd session) included an activity in ITTO’s 2018–2019 Biennial Work Programme titled “Enhancing teak management” aimed at improving the management and marketing of natural and planted teak.

The Government of Germany through the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture has financed the first stage of this activity, with a focus on five countries in the Mekong region—Cambodia, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Myanmar, Thailand and Viet Nam. It is expected that this stage of the activity will lead to improvements in the management, production and marketing of teak through the establishment of legal and sustainable wood supply chains.

The inception workshop will review the status of teak conservation and sustainable management and provide advice to assist in the effective implementation of the activity. The launching ceremony will be followed by a field visit to teak orchards, forests and plantations in Lam Pang Province.

To learn more and access the report and presentations made at the meeting click here