New Mahogany decree to protect industry

With Fiji having the largest mahogany plantations in the world, the government has ensured that it will operate on a sustainable basis through the implementation of a new Mahogany licensing and branding Decree 2011.

Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum said this will provide maximum returns to all Fijians especially landowners.

Sayed Khaiyum said the decree empowers the Mahogany Industry council to grant a license to any person or entity to purchase plantation grown mahogany logs from Fiji Hardwood Corporation Limited.

He said the council has also established the distinct Fijian Mahogany brand which will promote the plantation grown Fijian mahogany as an exclusive brand.

He added that the branding will prevent unscrupulous buyers from overseas from exploiting the mahogany industry by mixing and selling Fijian mahogany with mahogany timber from other places.

The decree also includes a harvesting code of practice.

Story by: Sofaia Koroitanoa