News

Call for expressions of interest Commercial promotion of lesser-known species (LKTS)

21.11.2025

What if the future of concessions also depended on lesser-known species? ATIBT invites concessionaires to join a pilot initiative to diversify the tropical timber market and promote lesser-known species (LKTS).

@IMAGEO ATIBT

In the forests of Central Africa, logging still relies heavily on a few iconic species (sapelli, okoumé, etc.). Diversifying the species marketed is a strategic opportunity: it helps to spread the ecological pressure, increase economic resilience and open up new commercial opportunities.

A pilot project

ATIBT is launching a call for expressions of interest to select two concessionaires willing to commit to the commercial development of lesser-known tropical species (LKTS). Each concessionaire will choose a species that is present in significant volumes in its concession. The aim is to provide scientific and commercial support in order to test and position these species on the market.

Benefits for participants

  • Scientific and technical support (durability analyses, mechanical properties, drying suitability)
  • Marketing and commercial support (technical data sheets, market research, networking workshops)
  • Increased visibility at the Carrefour International du Bois in Nantes in June 2026
  • Innovative and responsible positioning in the tropical forestry sector

Provisional schedule

  • December 2025 – March 2026: selection of concessions, identification and characterisation of species
  • March 2026– July 2026: commercial evaluation and market testing (CIB in June)

ATIBT invites interested concessionnaires to express their interest now. Applications are open until 8 December 2025 (included). Don't hesitate to apply!

Download the application here

Contact us at elise.cambier@atibt.org and paul.cuveillier@atibt.org