Thursday, August 9, 2007

National Log Export Policy - Post Consultation Summary

http://www.forestry.gov.gy/
GUYANA FORESTRY COMMISSION

National Log Export Policy


Post Consultation Summary


March, 2007
Section 1: Overview of Public Consultation

Background
The National Forest Plan, National Forest Policy Statement, National
Competitiveness Strategy, the International Tropical Timber
Organisation (ITTO) Diagnostic Mission Study of 2001, the DFID Country
Report for Guyana and other relevant documents, emphasize the need for
sustainable forest management and the development of added value forest
production as an imperative for forest sector growth.

Over the past months, the issue of log export continued to be dealt
with at the Governmental level and led to the establishment of a
Ministerial Committee comprising representative of the Guyana
Manufacturers and Services Association (GMSA), Forest Products
Association (FPA) and was chaired by the Chairman of the GFC’s Board of
Directors. The mandate of the Ministerial Committee was to develop a
discussion paper on the issue of log export and to then present this
position at a public consultation. Position papers were presented to
this Committee by the GMSA, FPA and GFC, and were used in the
compilation of this Discussion Paper. The Discussion Paper which was
formulated has a national focus, aimed at increasing Sustainable Forest
Management and added value activities in the forest sector. Following
presentation at the level of the Ministerial Committee, the discussion
paper was thought of as suitable for consideration at the planned,
public consultation. The public consultation was then scheduled for
17th February, 2007.

This session was held on 17th February, 2007 at the Regency Suite,
Conference Centre in Georgetown. It was well attended by a broad range
of stakeholder groups.

Total attendees amounted to 350. Representatives from Amerindian
Village Councils including Capoey and Batavia were present and were
able to lend invaluable contribution to the overall discussion.
Community forestry organizations in attendance included Upper Berbice
Forest Producers Association, Ituni Small Loggers Association and
Region 10 Agriculture and Forest Products Association. The cross
section of manufacturers in the forestry sub industry included
furniture manufacturers, lumber yard holders, saw millers, and
construction firms. Forest producers included both small and large
scale operators from all three counties. In attendance, were also
representatives of several Government Ministries and Agencies, and the
media. Appendix 1 gives a list of some of the participants.

The session was chaired by Mr. Jacy Archibald, the Corporate Secretary
of the Guyana Forestry Commission. Welcoming remarks were delivered by
Mr. Tarachand Balgobin, the Chairman of the GFC’s Board of Directors
and the Ministerial Committee addressing the issue of log export. Mr.
Balgobin expressed that increasing added value forest production has
been identified by the GFC’s Board, as an area that is of vital
importance, in order to ensure the growth and development of the forest
sector through increasing forest sector GDP, employment and foreign
exchange earnings.

The Chairman informed participants that the Ministerial Committee was
of the view that the Discussion paper to be delivered, was thought of
as a suitable one for the forum. He further expressed cognizance of
other concerns of both producers and manufacturers but stressed that
the focus for this session should be on formulating a national Log
Export Policy for Guyana. The Chairman made reference to the
impending new Forest Legislation, mentioning that the new legislation
is expected to address among other important matters, a new revenue
structure for the forest sector.

Opening remarks were delivered by the President of the GMSA, Mr. George
Robinson, the President of the Forest Products Association, Mr. David
Persaud, the Minister of Agriculture, Hon. Robert Persaud and the Hon.
Prime Minister, Mr. Samuel Hinds.

Mr. Robinson expressed the GMSA’s satisfaction over activities
conducted so far by the Ministerial Committee and lauded the Government
and the GFC for organizing the session which he views as being a
significant step in the process towards addressing the issue of log
export. Mr. Robinson in his remarks outlined the constraints which the
wood sector sub group have been faced with, including the shortage in
the supply of raw materials. He expressed keen interest in the Log
Export Policy coming to fruition in a way that would address these
constraints.

Mr. David Persaud expressed the interest of the FPA in seeing the
industry grow and develop but cautioned against the perceived negative
impact that log export policy may have on the forest producing sub
industry of the forest sector. He mentioned some of the constraints
currently facing producers and expressed the need for a policy that
takes these constraints into consideration.

The Hon. Minister Persaud, in his opening remarks, emphasized the need
for growth and development of the forest sector in keeping with
sustainable forest management principles and value added growth. He
recognized that the contribution by both forest producers and
manufacturers is significant and expressed that the National Log Export
Policy will take into consideration the contributions by both sub
sectors.

The Hon. Prime Minister expressed that the balance which the sector
operates in, is important, recognizing the interdependence with local
producers and international markets. He emphasized that the
constraints faced by producers and manufacturers will be considered in
the drafting of a Policy position on log export.

The presentation of the Discussion paper was delivered by Commissioner
of Forests, Mr. James Singh. This presentation is outlined further in
Section 2: Presentation of Discussion paper. During the registration
process, participants were given a number sequentially from 1 to 10.
Following the Commissioner’s presentation, the ten (10) working groups
were established on the basis of the numbers given to participants
during the registration process.

The groups were given identical topics to deliberate on and this group
activity lasted for one hour. Each group then made a presentation in
the final plenary session. Following the group presentations, Mr.
Archibald giving brief closing remarks and then invited the FAO
Regional Forest Officer, Mr. Claus Eckelmann to give brief remarks.
Mr. Ecklemann pointed out that there seems to be a consensus that more
raw materials are needed on the local market. He informed the
participants that FAO does not have a definitive policy on log exports.
He outlined however, that other alternatives which may be considered
include the imposition of an export level on logs beginning immediately
at 10% and increasing every year by 2%. In his presentation he
outlined a policy case in Indonesia.

Hon. Robert Persaud in his concluding remarks outlined the next steps
with regards to the Log Export Policy. He thanked everyone for coming
out and in such large numbers, and for contributing to the discussions.
He indicated that he expects that within 4 weeks the policy
recommendation be tabled at Cabinet for members’ consideration.

Appendix 2 gives an outline of the Agenda for the day.







Section 2: Presentation of Discussion paper

The main issues highlighted in the presentation are outlined below:

INTRODUCTION
It has been observed, that over the period 2003 to 2006, there has been
a rapid increase in both production and export of logs as well as sawn
lumber. This is mirrored in the export value derived from these
products.

Guyana’s State Forest allocation percentages reveal that most of the
easily accessible parts of the State Forest have already been allocated
into forest concessions. The majority of these concessions are
underutilized, and some concessionaires enter into sub-contractual
operations. Recognizing this, optimal utilization of existing
concessions is therefore essential, to boost the contribution that the
forest sector makes to Guyana’s economy and to increase value. Optimal
utilization refers to increasing the value of each cubic meter of log
extracted from our forests. The focus, in this context, is therefore on
value creation per unit extracted.


OVERVIEW OF PRIMARY SUB SECTOR
In 2000 – 2003, regional and international markets for tropical timber
products were only now developing, owing primarily to growing demand in
India and China. Prior to this, the Asian Crisis which begun in 1997,
brought with it stagnant market, low prices and a decline in demand for
tropical timber products, among other products. In addition, during
this period Guyana species were in their embryonic stage of gaining
market acceptance.

Further, primary forest operations have contributed significantly to
employment, social services (health, education), and infrastructure
within and around the communities which they operate. Forest operators
have demonstrated efforts to comply with GFC’s policies and procedures
within the ambits of sustainable forest management.


OVERVIEW OF MANUFACTURING SUB SECTOR
Forest added-value manufacturing capacity has increased over the years.
Some manufacturers have indicated that they have been facing a lack of
adequate supply of raw materials. This sub sector has contributed
significantly to employment, technology transfer, and social services
over the years.

The economic returns of this sector are significant compared to primary
production. Some manufacturers have been able to gain access to niche
markets. In addition, domestic employment totals have been noted to
increase significantly, as the value chain extends. Technological
advancements in added value manufacturing have been made in recent
years, including kiln drying, high-end doors and furniture
manufacturing, among other products. Over the past four years, forest
manufacturers have diversified to new areas including niche-market
furniture, household components - doors, and kiln dried lumber. Some
manufacturers have been able to successfully penetrate quality
sensitive, environmentally conscious markets.


CURRENT STATUS OF INTERNATIONAL TROPICAL TIMBER TRADE
Over the past three (3) years, it has been noted that a tremendous
potential exists in the international and regional markets for
processed timber products, especially sawnwood. This is supported by
attractive prices and a growing demand for Guyana’s timber and timber
products.

Stakeholders have generally endorsed that Guyana’s timber sector is
well positioned to supply a very lucrative Caribbean market, which is
inherently characterized by low shipping, logistics and general
transaction costs. A survey conducted by the Forest Products Marketing
Council in 2006, revealed that the market for comparable timber
products in countries like Jamaica, Trinidad and Barbados, is large.
Guyana is currently only supplying a minimal percentage to these
markets – to a maximum of 14% in Barbados.

Internationally, the demand for Guyana’s processed wood products is
also high. The global demand for tropical wood products is at a peak
and Guyana is well positioned to capitalize on this demand. Countries
like UK, Denmark, Netherlands, and Vietnam etc. all have very high
demand for sawn and added value tropical wood products which are
similar to Guyana’s species and wood products. In China, many of
Guyana’s wood species are in high demand for use in flooring production
and other value added end uses.


ASSESSMENT OF LOCAL DEMAND AND SUPPLY OF SAWN LUMBER
An assessment was done in 2006, to determine the local requirement for
lumber, in the processing sub-sector (per month). Current supply, to
local value added industry was analyzed, relative to demand. In this
study, potential supply in the form of logs exports, converted to
lumber, (at current level of recovery – 40%), was analyzed. This
assessment covered an 18 month period, by geographic location, size of
operation, and filtered for any over/under estimation of demand.
The findings indicate that there is existing local added-value demand
for identified species. There is, for some species, an identified
surplus after having satisfied the local added value demand with
available supply coupled with logs exported being converted into lumber
– e.g Greenheart. On the other hand, in some cases, an identified
deficit is seen in supply, even if all logs exported were converted
into lumber – e.g Purpleheart.


SITUATION ANALYSIS
The guiding documents for the forest sector have recommended, among
other areas, the development of the sector through added value
production. These documents also talk about providing incentives for
those who engage in added value forest activities. In addition, these
documents further emphasize the need to reduce log export and engage in
added value activities. There has however, been a marked deviation
from this, as shown by a significant increase in log export from 2003 –
2006.

There has been a noted increase in log export from 2003 to 2006. Most
of these species are Prime Species:

λ 56% of log export in 2005 and 57% of log export in 2006 were from the
Special Category.
λ 31% in 2005 and 29% in 2006 were from Class 1.
λ The remaining 13 - 14% for both years were from Class 2 and 3 together

Based on this distribution, it can be concluded that there is little
evidence that the Prime Species are carrying the lesser used species.

It is evident that most of the easily accessible forest areas have
already been allocated. Based on the clear benefits, there is a need
for optimal utilization of logs extracted. In addition, recognizing
that the primary forest producing sub-sector has experienced initial
difficulties, there has been noticeable change in this situation:
market has expanded and grown, huge local, regional and international
demand and high prices currently prevail in the market. Further, the
findings of the demand study indicate that there is an unsatisfied
demand in the local market for sawn lumber.

Findings from the demand study also indicate that for the following
species listed below, demand exceeds supply of sawn wood. In addition,
logs exported, when converted to lumber still leaves a margin of
unsatisfied demand. For these species, international demand, in terms
of end use application is high.
λ Purpleheart
λ Red Cedar
λ Letterwood
λ Bulletwood
λ Cow Wood
λ Crab Wood
λ Locust
λ Tatabu
λ Kabukalli
λ Shibadan
λ Tauroniro
λ Washiba
λ Hububalli
λ Tonka Bean
λ Darina


The following species, of the list of 15 species identified above, have
been further identified as those having the highest demand for
processed wood products:

Special Category
Purpleheart
Red Cedar
Letterwood

Class 1
Crabwood
Locust
Kabukalli
Shibadan
Washiba
Hububalli

Class 111
Tonka Bean


The Demand Study has further indicated that for the following species
listed below, demand exceeds supply of sawn wood but in most cases,
logs exported when converted to lumber, can cover this gap, leaving a
surplus for export.

λ Greenheart
λ Brown Silverballi
λ Itikiboroballi
λ Determa
λ Wamara
λ Hakia
λ Mora
λ Dukali
λ Kereti Silverballi
λ Wallaba
λ Fukadi
λ Futui

For Itikiboroballi, Hakia, Dukali, Keriti Silverballi, Fukadi and
Futui, these species showed an existing unsatisfied demand. However,
for these species the end use application and demand, although fairly
high, are not as high as those identified before, for example,
Purpleheart.


OVERVIEW OF THE STATUS OF LOG HARVESTING AND EXPORTS
- IN TROPICAL TIMBER PRODUCING COUNTRIES

International forest trends, focused on promoting and ensuring
sustainable forest management, indicate growing occurrences of
restriction on export of logs, and in some cases, restriction of
harvesting entirely, of natural forests. Below is a list of countries
which have so far, taken steps to restrict the exportation of logs, and
harvesting of logs from natural forests.

International Restriction of Log Harvesting and Log Export
CountryInternational Status of Log Harvesting and Log Exports
BrazilBanned the export of all logs since 1969CameroonBanned export of
logsCentral African RepublicRestriction on log
exportColombiaRegulations that restrict the exportation of logs from
natural forests. Been in force for over 10 years. Only round wood
coming from planted forests can be exported. Cote d’IvoireBanned
export in log formGhanaExport of round logs banned since 1997. Levies
imposed on export of air dried timber for 9 important species.
IndiaBanned logging in natural forests. IndonesiaLocal logging bans –
particularly in East KalimantanMyanmarWorking on a restriction of log
export. PhilippinesBanned logging in primary forests since 1990.
Similar situation in Thailand. ThailandBanned logging in natural
forestsBoliviaLog export banCosta RicaLog export banUS, Canada, New
ZealandLog export restrictionVanuatuPolicy gives firm legal effect to a
log export ban. Banned in 1993. This operated intermittently to
assist the domestic processing industry. VenezuelaBanned 5 main
species for 6 years starting 2001:
1. Caoba
2. Cedro
3. Mijao
4. Pardillo
5. Pau d’arcoMalaysiaPeninsula Malaysia commenced the restriction of
export of logs in 1972.
In 1985, Peninsula Malaysia instituted a complete ban on log export.
In Sarawak, a quota on log export was instituted in 1985. GabonGabon,
in January, 2007 instituted a log export quota system to restrict log
export. CongoCongo is currently moving towards log export
restrictionPapua New Guinea
In Papua New Guinea, certain species of logs are banned.
Source: ITTO – Status of Tropical Forest Management.


OPTIONS
The proposed options of this Discussion paper are set based on express
recognition that added value forest production is essential for forest
sector development, supported by favourable market, government
investment regime and industry conditions.

Further, the outcome of the Ministerial Committee established to
address the issue of log export, has pinpointed a possible ban and/or
restriction of the exportation of logs in a phased manner, as an
imperative for added value forest production and forest sector
development. Several options were discussed at the level of the
Committee and the two extreme options are presented below for
consideration by the participants at the session.

Option 1
A.
OPTION 1OPTION 2Full Ban - 1st March, 2007Full Ban - 1st January,
2008PurpleheartPurpleheartRed CedarRed
CedarLetterwoodLetterwoodBulle
twoodBulletwoodCow WoodCow WoodCrab
WoodCrab
WoodLocustLocustTatabuTatabuKabukalliKabukalliShibadanShibadanTauroniroT
auroniroWashibaWashibaHububalliHububalliTonka BeanTonka
BeanDarinaDarina
B.
OPTION 1OPTION 2Ban of Squares - 1st January, 2008
(20.3 cm X 20.3 cm or 8” X 8”) and greaterBan of Squares - 1st January,
2009
(20.3 cm X 20.3 cm or 8” X 8”) and greaterPurpleheartPurpleheartRed
CedarRed
CedarLetterwoodLetterwoodCrabwoodCrabwoodLocustLocustKabukalliKabukalliS
hibadanShibadanWashibaWashibaHububalliHububalliTonka BeanTonka Bean

C.
OPTIONS 1 & 2Phased Ban - 50% in 2008, 75% in 2009, 100% in
2010GreenheartBrown
SilverballiItikiboroballiDetermaWamaraHakiaMoraDukaliKereti
SilverballiWallabaFukadiFutui
The options presented above were extreme options for consideration.
Other options can be considered, but must be in keeping with the
general thrust of the two options presented.

Currently, there is a restriction on Locust and Crabwood, in the
exportation of logs. At present, there is no restriction or ban, on
the exportation of species in the form of squares.


IMPLEMENTING MECHANISM

ϖ The implementing mechanism for the phased ban in log export will be
set and monitored by the GFC.

ϖ Monthly lumber price publication, distributed free of cost to the
sector.

ϖ Close monitoring by the GFC to ensure that system is working
effectively, recommending adjustments and making adjustments where
necessary (as appropriate).

ϖ For species proposed for phased banning, only holders of Timber Sales
Agreements, Wood Cutting Leases and State Forest Permissions will be
allowed to export logs. These logs must originate from their own
concession.

ϖ A complete revision of this system by 2012.


IMPLICATIONS OF LOG EXPORT BAN/RESTRICTION
– POSSIBLE ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES

The main advantage of Option 1 is the immediate potential benefit which
this will bring to the local added value manufacturers in 2007. The
downside to this option however, is the limited transition period which
the producers would be faced with, if some species were to be banned
immediately in the export of logs.

Option 2 poses the main advantage of offering the producers a period of
at least 8 months during which the transitions can be made in their
operations to accommodate this policy change. The disadvantage of this
option however, is the possibility having the trend in log export as
shown from 2003 - 2006, continue in 2007 – especially for the prime
species.

Banning the export of the identified species of logs, is expected to
impact positively on the export revenue, domestic employment, forest
sector contribution to Gross Domestic Products and a growth in domestic
value adding.

An additional US$9M (G$1.8B) in export earnings could have been
realized, had the logs exported in 2006 alone, been converted into
lumber. This is shown in greater detail in the Table below:

Analysis of Potential Net Revenue for Logs Exported Converted to Sawn
lumber
Species Volume Exported (m3) Lumber @ 50% (m3)Potential Revenue (US$)
Log Export Revenue (US$) Additional Revenue (US$)Sawmill Cost (US$
80/m3)Additional Net Revenue (US$)Purpleheart 45,728
22,864 13,718,400 7,148,154 6,570,246 1,829,120
4,741,126 Tonka Bean 1,866 933 559,800
160,018 399,782 74,640 325,142
Bulletwood 8,027 4,014 2,408,100
843,426 2,318,519 321,080 1,997,439 Tatabu
2,928 1,464 732,000 301,083 430,917
117,120 313,797 Kabukalli 5,730
2,865 1,214,760 604,108 610,652 229,200
381,452 Shibadan 4,476 2,238 1,119,000
490,064 628,936 179,040 449,896 Darina
4,888 2,444 1,036,256 460,184
576,072 195,520 380,552 Locust (Bastard)
221 111 66,300 22,102 44,198
8,840 35,358 Red Cedar 22
11 8,800 1,994 6,806
880 5,926 Washiba 919 460
459,500 89,581 369,919 36,760
333,159 Cow Wood 114 57 28,500
9,728 18,772 4,560 14,212
Tauroniro 521 261 104,200
50,945 53,255 20,840 32,415 Hububalli
44 22 11,000 3,981
7,019 1,760 5,259 Crabwood
- - - -
- - -
Letterwood - - -
- - -
- Total 75,484 37,742 21,466,616
10,185,368 12,035,093 3,019,360 9,015,733

Mill Capacity
Having examined the possible implications of a log export ban on
Guyana’s timber industry, one area that needed to be examined is the
existing installed milling capacity. The Guyana Forestry Commission
conducted a survey of existing mill capacity. Based on the findings,
the following was concluded:

λ Aggregate Existing Sawmill capacity: 42,000m3 per month (504,000m3
per year) of logs can be processed

λ Aggregate Existing Plywood capacity: 15,000 m3 of logs per month

λ Aggregate milling capacity amounts to 42,000m3 + 15,000m3 per month=
684,000 m3 per annum.

λ Total log production in 2006 was 380,000 m3. Aggregate existing
processing capacity is 684,000 m3 (inclusive of plywood processing).

λ This represents only 55% of total installed capacity.

λ If we consider sawmill capacity alone, (504,000 m3/year), then total
log production represents 75% of installed sawmill capacity.

With the aggregated existing processing capability, the impact of the
log export restriction ban will not have a detrimental effect in terms
of stifling the processing sub-industry in the forest sector. The
processing industry can therefore consume the additional sawn wood
processing requirement which would become available.

Capital Investment and Retooling

Stakeholders, in the past, have expressed concern about the
availability of capital for retooling, in order to move to added-value
forest production. From 2003 – 2006 the earnings from log export alone
has been US$48.6M. It is therefore evident that an adequate capacity
in terms of financing, is available to facilitate reinvestment in
retooling. These analyses are done using recent cost information
revealing the following:
- Average cost to establish a modern, state of the art static sawmill
is US$0.75M.
- Average cost to establish a portable mill operation is approximately
US$ 70,000.

Many forest producers/companies, currently have the capability to
process logs into lumber. In many instances, processing capability was
one of the main factors which were considered in the granting of these
concessions.

Currently, a large percentage of this installed processing capability
is not being fully utilized. In the case of new entrants into primary
forest production in Guyana, the actual cost to install value adding
capability is financially feasible for investors – given available
technology, Government’s incentive regime and prices.


Shipping

The GFC recognizes that there may be increased shipping requirements
following the proposed restriction/banning in exportation of logs from
Guyana. The GFC in collaboration with the FPMC conducted a study to
ascertain the capability of existing shipping lines of filling this
identified surplus capacity. The main shipping lines which were
included in the survey are:

ϖ C&V Shipping
ϖ CMA CGM
ϖ Demerara Shipping
ϖ John Fernandes
ϖ Maersk
ϖ Tropical shipping

Based on information collected, it was observed that on an aggregate,
the existing Shipping Lines are in a position to either individually or
collectively ship an additional 10,000 m3 of sawn lumber monthly.
This additional available shipping capacity will cover possible
increases in sawn lumber export as a result of restriction in log
export.

This is equivalent to 500 containers. Possible destinations include
Asia, Europe, North America, and the Caribbean.

Section 3: Working Group Proceedings

Working Group Sessions
The participants were arranged into working groups based on random
allocation of group numbers, at the time of registration at
commencement of session. Ten (10) groups were formed. Each group was
allocated a facilitator. Within the group a Rapporteur and a scribe
were elected by the members. The Rapporteur was tasked with the
presentation to the plenary on behalf of the group.

The Groups were tasked with addressing the following main areas:

1. With reference to list A, please identify species which should be
subject to a full ban in exportation of logs. Please indicate the time
frame for this proposal. Identify the time frame also, for the
implementation of the full ban of export of log, for the remaining
species.
2. From list A, identify the species that should be banned in the
exportation of squares. When should this take effect?
3. For list C, please provide percentages and time frame for the
implementation of banning the exportation of logs.

The findings of the working group are presented in the table below:

Group NumberQuestion 1 - ResponsesQuestion 2 - ResponsesQuestion 3 -
Responses1Full ban of all species outlined from January 2008Full ban of
outlined species by January 200850% ban of species outlined from
January 2008 and 10% for every year thereafter2Full Ban of all species
outlined from March 2007.No consensus reachedFull Ban of all species
outlined from March 2007.3Full ban of all species outlined from January
2008Policy must give consideration for squares used in engineering
projects.Full ban of all species outlined from January 20084Full ban of
all species outlined from March 2007.Full ban of outlined species by
January 2008.Full ban of all species outlined from January 20085Full
ban of all species outlined from January 2008Full ban of outlined
species by January 2008. Consideration given to squares used in
engineering projects. 50% ban of species in 2008, 75% ban in 2009 and
100% ban in 2010.650% ban March, 2007, 75% ban January 2009, 100% ban
January 2010.Full ban of species outlined by January 2008.50% ban of
species in 2008, 75% ban in 2009 and 100% ban in 2010.7Full ban of all
species outlined from March 2007.Full ban of species outlined by
January 2008.50% ban of species in 2008, 75% ban in 2009 and 100% ban
in 2010.8Full ban of all species outlined from March 2007.Full ban of
species outlined by January 2008.Proposed list C to have 50% ban of
species in 2008, 75% ban in 2009 and 100% ban in 2010.

Greenheart, Brown Silverballi, Mora, Hakia, Determa, Wallaba
Itikiboroballi to be included in list A for banning in March 2007.
9Full ban of all species outlined from March 2007. Implementation to
be later in 2007.Full ban of species outlined by January 2008.Proposed
list C to have 50% ban of species in 2008, 75% ban in 2009 and 100% ban
in 2010.
1050% ban on all species from January 2009No ban on squares50% ban on
all species from January 2009

Other species identified for ban and/or restriction were:

• All species used in furniture making in Guyana
• Baromalli
• Suya
• Ulu
• Maho
• Haiariballi
• Saka Purpleheart
• Bastard Locust
• Yellow Silverballi


Other points highlighted were:
• More incentives offered for value added forest activities
• Participation for all segments of the population should be ensured –
e.g Amerindians
• Non timber forest products should also be banned from exports
• There needs to be more information for the exotic species/ non
commercial quantities to enable and promote value adding.
• A limit should be placed on persons coming into Guyana to work as
skilled workers.
• The socio economic implications of the proposed policy should be
considered


ANNEX 1

List of Participants

• University of Guyana
• Caribbean Resources Ltd.
• Barama Company Ltd.
• Guyana Wood Products Ltd.
• Precision Woodworking Ltd.
• Liana Cane Interiors
• GO INVEST
• Ministry of Tourism
• Tapakuma Village Council
• Fine Woods
• Vergenogen Sawmills Ltd.
• Toolsie Persaud Ltd.
• Variety Woods and Greenheart Ltd.
• Environmental Management Consultants
• SAS Lumber
• M. Inshanally Sawmills
• Rainforest Lumber Inc.
• Region 10 Agriculture and Forest Products Association
• Durable Hardwoods Establishment
• Timber Traders Ltd.
• Mohamed Sawmill
• Representative from the Chinese Embassy
• M. Ousman and Sons Ltd.
• Kurunduni Logging Inc.
• R. Singh Lumber Yard
• Farfan and Mendes Ltd.
• AMACO Inc.
• Guyana Timber Products
• USAID/GTIS
• IWOKRAMA
• Ministry of Foreign Trade and International Cooperation
• Ministry of Amerindian Affairs
• Upper Berbice Forest Producers Association
• Jailing Forest Industries
• A. Mazarally and Sons ltd.
• Representative from the US Embassy
• Linear Woods Ltd.
• Sunshine Timbers
• R. D. Khan Ltd.
• Willems Timbers Ltd.
• Batavia Amerindian Community
• Demerara Timbers Ltd
• Parika Sawmills Ltd.
• WAICO
• ARUKA
• Caribe Products International
• Ituni Small Loggers Association
• Baijnauth and Sons Ltd.
• Nagassar Sawh Ltd.
• JOP Developers
• Mariabo Timbers
• Guyana Human Rights Association
• H. Persaud Lumber Yard
• Barakat Timbers
• Ganesh Singh and Sons
• Interior Forest Industries
• Capoey - Amerindian Village Council
• Superior Shingles Ltd.
• Bulkan Timber Works
• Forest Enterprises Ltd.
• Guyana School of Agriculture
• Environmental Protection Agency
• Harinarine Jagernauth Lumberyard
• Guyana Manufacturers and Services Association - Secretariat
• Forest Products Association - Secretariat
• Guyana Revenue Authority
• Bai Shan Lin
• Representative – Brazilian Embassy
• C & S Mohabir and Sons
• Paradise Construction Inc.
• Saravin Sawmill
• WWF – Guianas
• Inter American Development Bank
• Trade Linc
• Fine Woods Ltd.
• Caricom Secretariat
• Alliance for Change
• USAID
• Thomas Enterprises
• Guyana Wood Products Ltd.
• A. Forester Lumberyard
• Antraw Timber Suppliers
• Deluxe Furniture
• N. R. Boodhoo Forest Industries
• Simon and Shock Ltd.
• Trans Amazon Exporters
• Calidonia Sawmills
• Jettoo Lumber Yard
• A. S. I. International


APPENDIX 2

PROGRAMME


Registration 8:30 am - 9:00 am

Welcome 9:00 am – 9:10 am

Mr. Jacy Archibald (Chairperson)
Mr. Tarachand Balgobin
(Chairman, Board of Directors, GFC)

Opening Remarks 9:10 am – 9:45 am

Mr. George Robinson (President, GMSA)
Mr. David Persaud (President, FPA)
Hon. Robert Persaud (Minister of Agriculture)
Hon. Samuel Hinds, Prime Minister

Presentation of Discussion Paper 9:45 am to 10:45 am

Mr. James Singh
(Commissioner of Forests)

Snack Break 10:45 am to 11:00 am

Working Group Sessions 11:00 am to 12:00 pm

Presentation by Working Groups 12:00 pm to 12:45 pm

Summary 12:45 pm to 1:00 pm

Closing Remarks 1:00 pm to 1:15 pm

Mr. Claus Eckelmann (FAO Regional Representative)
Hon. Robert Persaud, Minister of Agriculture

Lunch 1:15 pm to 1:45 pm


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