🌍 General Timber Export Regulations
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Export License/Permit
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Most countries require exporters to obtain a timber export permit.
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Issued by forestry departments, ministries of environment, or trade authorities.
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Sustainable Sourcing Requirements
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Proof that timber was harvested legally and sustainably (e.g., Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification or local equivalents).
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CITES Compliance
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If timber species are listed under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), special documentation and approval are required.
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Customs Documentation
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Commercial invoice
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Packing list
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Bill of lading
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Phytosanitary certificate (in many countries)
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Certificate of origin
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Tax and Duties
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Export duties may apply. Some countries use these to discourage the export of raw logs and promote local processing.
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Log Export Bans
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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).
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Inspection & Grading
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Physical inspection by forestry or customs authorities.
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Grading of timber might be required based on local standards.
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🌐 Examples by Region
🇮🇳 India
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Log export is banned (except for a few special species like sandalwood under strict rules).
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Export allowed mostly for processed wood/timber.
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Exporters must register with the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).
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Must comply with CITES and phytosanitary regulations.
🇲🇾 Malaysia
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Requires a Phytosanitary Certificate and CITES permit (if applicable).
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Exports of certain logs are restricted or banned to encourage domestic processing.
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MTIB (Malaysian Timber Industry Board) oversees timber exports.
🇮🇩 Indonesia
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Requires V-Legal Document under the SVLK (Timber Legality Assurance System).
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Indonesia is part of the FLEGT agreement with the EU, allowing simplified exports to the EU market.
🇨🇲 Cameroon
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Log export partially banned; processed wood products are encouraged.
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Must comply with CITES, especially for species like rosewood and ebony.
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Requires a Certificate of Origin and Export Permit from the Ministry of Forests.
🇧🇷 Brazil
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Export controlled by IBAMA and customs authorities.
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Heavy restrictions on tropical hardwoods.
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Must comply with CITES, and exporters must show legality of harvest via DOF (Document of Forest Origin).