ZAFOSA calls for stronger support to boost timber industry amid low prices

Zambia Forestry and Sawmilling Association (ZAFOSA) president, Davies Kabamba, has urged government to introduce additional measures to make the country’s timber industry more resilient.

Kabamba acknowledged the various empowerment interventions that government had introduced in timber harvesting concessions, saying they have helped improve timber prices.

However, he stressed that more effort was required to ensure the industry became sustainable and competitive.

“The price of timber is not cost-reflective. A number of concessions have failed to make a return on their investment because of restrictions by Chinese buyers, who have blocked local players from supplying to the international market. Nonetheless, the industry has been receiving strong support from government,” Kabamba said in an interview with Zambia Monitor on Sunday.

He emphasised the need for serious engagement between government and international buyers to open up fair trade opportunities for Zambian producers.

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Kabamba further suggested that timber auctioning would provide a transparent and efficient model for sales.

“We look forward to duty-free timber equipment to help us become competitive with imported timber. Furthermore, government should help us secure markets and international partners so that we can invest in value addition. This will enable the sector to generate the much-needed revenue for the treasury, create employment, and allow concession holders to make a return on their investments,” he said.

Kabamba reiterated ZAFOSA’s commitment to working with government and other stakeholders to address challenges in the industry, adding that unlocking the full potential of the sector would benefit both local businesses and the national economy.

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