(Ecofin Agency) - In 2017, Mozambique’s timber shipments generated about MT5 billion (around $84.5 million). Xavier Sakambuera, head of the National Forest Directorate at the agriculture ministry, reports.

According to the official, this good performance was spurred by the government-led policy to promote processed forest products which helps revive wood processing industry and generates new jobs.

For the record, the Mozambican government last January banned timber export, coupled with the policy of 25% reduction on royalties per cubic meter of locally-processed timber.

Sakambuera says Mozambique has nearly 119 commercial forest species exploited for firewood. The population also clear forest cover to expand agricultural areas.

Espoir Olodo