Dear Peter, Thank you for your message regarding timber imports and illegal logging.
I share your concerns over the sale of illegal timber in New Zealand and the government is taking practical steps to do something about it.
Over the next few months we will be conducting an assessment of the practicality of introducing a regulatory requirement for suppliers to produce evidence that wood products are sourced from a legally harvested forest. In addition we will be working to encourage stronger public and private sector awareness and action to help address this problem.
In future the government will require its own departments to seek timber and wood products from legally harvested sources and to take all reasonable steps to ensure that those products are from sustainably managed forests.
In addition, our policy recognises the need to work with other countries to find long term solutions to help stop illegal logging at its source. Currently my officials are drafting a comprehensive strategy for international engagement to help guide this work.
Illegal logging is a complex problem and it will take time and effort to address it. But we are committed to doing that through the goals that we have set ourselves.
For more information on the illegal logging policy you may like to visit the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry website at http://www.maf.govt.nz/forestry/illegal-logging/index.htm
Yours sincerely
Jim Anderton
Minister of Forestry
M P for Wigram and Leader of the Progressive Party
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Contributor's Note
Important subjects - worldwide.
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