The Solomon Islands Timber Processors and Exporters Association (SITPEA) and its members—Hatanga Timber Ltd, Value-Added Timber Association Timber Company Ltd, and Top Timber Ltd—have secured internationally recognised Chain of Custody Certification, enabling them to demonstrate sustainable sourcing of forest products to global customers.
As international regulations tighten, the certification is expected to help these organisations access high-value export markets, create jobs, and strengthen buyer confidence in Solomon Islands timber products.
Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Jeff Roach, praised SITPEA and its members, highlighting the importance of sustainable forestry for the nations future prosperity.
“Sawn timber offers a more sustainable pathway for Solomon Islands’ forestry sector. This certification is significant as the industry supports around 9,000 rural households,” High Commissioner Roach said.
“Congratulations to SITPEA and your members on this achievement.”
The certification was achieved with support from Australia and New Zealand, which assisted SITPEA and its members strengthen systems and skills to meet international standards for legally traceable, responsibly sourced sawn timber.
SITPEA representative Raphael Aramaea, expressed gratitude for the long-standing support from both governments.
“Your commitment and ongoing support to SITPEA have been instrumental in helping us achieve this milestone”, Mr Aramaea said. “SITPEA is now working with its members to expand the certification scheme to more businesses this year.”
This milestone builds on Australia’s long-standing partnership with Solomon Islands’ sustainable forestry sector, including initiatives with Kolombangara Forest Products Ltd and the Value-Added Timber Association to increase value-added timber production and support rural livelihoods.
Source: Australian High Commission, Solomon Islands