Join the round-table discussion in Nantes on LKTS-LUTS: Moving beyond ‘untapped potential’ to build the tropical timber sectors of tomorrow on June 3rd at the 2026 International Timber Fair

‘Lesser-known and under-utilised’ timber species’ (LKTS-LUTS) are playing an increasingly important role in discussions about the future of the tropical timber sector. Whether in terms of diversifying markets, reducing pressure on traditionally harvested species, or addressing sustainability challenges, their value is now widely recognised.

However, recognising their potential is not enough to ensure their effective integration into value chains. The question remains: how can we move from underutilised forest resources to materials that are fully integrated into the markets? What selection criteria should be adopted, what methods employed, and what levers activated to support their adoption by manufacturers and users?

These issues will be the focus of the round-table discussion, which will be held during the 2026 International Timber Fair as part of the activities of the Tropical Timber Trade Facility project, funded by the BMZ and implemented by GIZ. On Wednesday 3 June 2026, researchers, manufacturers and practitioners will share their experiences, methodological approaches and practical tools dedicated to the utilisation of LKTS-LUTS.

The event will feature several key highlights:

a presentation on the history of the initiative led by ATIBT;
a presentation by the FSC on its work regarding LKTS, as well as the platform developed to support their visibility and promotion;
discussions with forestry concessionaires involved in these efforts to diversify the species they market;
feedback from scientific and industrial experts on Manilkara and Eveuss species, illustrating the technical, economic and commercial challenges associated with introducing new timber products to the market;
the presentation of recently developed resources to support this initiative, including a book on Central African trees and a laminating guide for professionals in processing and application.

Please find the full programme attached.

Beyond the technical aspects, this round table aims to serve as a forum for dialogue between science, forest management and industry, with a shared ambition: to move beyond the observation of ‘untapped potential’ and examine the practical conditions required to transform these forest resources into sustainable value for the sectors.

Wednesday 3 June 2026 · 11.00 am – 12.30 pm · Canopée 2, Hall XXL, Nantes

Registration link: https://forms.gle/AhguGiRF96e9BKkL9