Fedustria represents ATIBT in Brussels at the event “Celebrating the fruits of the EU–Ghana Partnership on Illegal Logging” organized by Fern

ATIBT was represented by Ingrid Hontis, Head of the Timber Sector at Fedustria, a member of the ATIBT.

An exemplary partnership for strengthened forest governance

The event, hosted at the European Parliament, brought together representatives from the European Commission (DG INTPA), the European Parliament, the Ghana Forestry Commission, the Embassy of Ghana, and several civil society and private sector organizations.

Discussions highlighted the concrete results of the EU-Ghana partnership in combating illegal logging and promoting sustainable and transparent trade. The voice of Fedustria and ATIBT: the value of the FLEGT system for businesses

Ingrid Hontis praised Ghana's success and highlighted the tangible benefits of the FLEGT system for businesses:

"This FLEGT licensing system is a real help to our businesses.

It is an exemplary way of working together for sustainable trade and responsibly sourced products, while ensuring the protection of our forests."

She also highlighted Ghana's level of preparedness for the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), drawing parallels between the requirements of FLEGT and those of the new European regulatory framework.

Three key outcomes highlighted by Fern

Fern summarized the main achievements of this celebration in three points:

Sharing experience– The Ghanaian delegation expressed its willingness to share its experience with other countries and to continue cooperating with the EU to support similar initiatives.
European Commission commitment– DG INTPA confirmed its intention to continue supporting Ghana in implementing the FLEGT VPA and developing new forestry partnerships.
Strengthening cooperation– DG INTPA, the Chair of the Forestry Commission, and the Ambassador of Ghana emphasized the importance of strengthening collaboration for sustainable development and the transition to a green economy.

An event that brings hope for the future of the EU-Africa partnership

Fedustria's participation, in support of ATIBT, helped enrich the dialogue between European institutions, African stakeholders, and representatives of the private sector.

ATIBT is pleased to see the FLEGT process demonstrate its relevance, not only as a tool for forest governance, but also as a lever of trust for businesses and markets.

The association will continue to actively support exchanges between Europe and African partner countries to promote responsible, legal, and sustainable tropical timber trade.

For more information: A full summary of the event, photos, and a video on Ghana's timber traceability system are available on the Fern website: www.fern.org

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UTt7OBtPfoU