🌍 General Timber Export Regulations

1. Export License/Permit

   • Most countries require exporters to obtain a timber export permit.

   • Issued by forestry departments, ministries of environment, or trade authorities.

2. Sustainable Sourcing Requirements

   • Proof that timber was harvested legally and sustainably (e.g., Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification or local equivalents).

3. CITES Compliance

   • If timber species are listed under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), special documentation and approval are required.

4. Customs Documentation

   • Commercial invoice

   • Packing list

   • Bill of lading

   • Phytosanitary certificate (in many countries)

   • Certificate of origin

5. Tax and Duties

   • Export duties may apply. Some countries use these to discourage the export of raw logs and promote local processing.

6. Log Export Bans

   • Some countries have partial or full bans on log exports to prevent overexploitation and promote local value-addition (e.g., India, Ghana, Malaysia in some contexts).

7. Inspection & Grading

   • Physical inspection by forestry or customs authorities.

   • Grading of timber might be required based on local standards.

🌐 Examples by Region

🇮🇳 India

• Log export is banned (except for a few special species like sandalwood under strict rules).

• Export allowed mostly for processed wood/timber.

• Exporters must register with the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).

• Must comply with CITES and phytosanitary regulations.

🇲🇾 Malaysia

• Requires a Phytosanitary Certificate and CITES permit (if applicable).

• Exports of certain logs are restricted or banned to encourage domestic processing.

• MTIB (Malaysian Timber Industry Board) oversees timber exports.

🇮🇩 Indonesia

• Requires V-Legal Document under the SVLK (Timber Legality Assurance System).

• Indonesia is part of the FLEGT agreement with the EU, allowing simplified exports to the EU market.

🇨🇲 Cameroon

• Log export partially banned; processed wood products are encouraged.

• Must comply with CITES, especially for species like rosewood and ebony.

• Requires a Certificate of Origin and Export Permit from the Ministry of Forests.

🇧🇷 Brazil

• Export controlled by IBAMA and customs authorities.

• Heavy restrictions on tropical hardwoods.

• Must comply with CITES, and exporters must show legality of harvest via DOF (Document of Forest Origin).