Operators in Gabon and Congo are facing difficulties due to unsettled weather, despite the expected arrival of the dry season. Heavy rain and thunderstorms persist daily, causing delays in forest operations and transport. This abnormal weather pattern is causing problems for the timber industry, which is already facing challenges due to substantial delays in log transportation. Additionally, high transport road fees are adding to the financial strain on companies.
Despite these challenges, the railways in Congo, Gabon, and Cameroon are operating normally with no recent reports of derailments. However, the timber industry is still facing difficulties due to the delays in log transportation. This is causing financial strain on companies, which are already struggling with high transport road fees. The situation is particularly challenging for small and medium-sized enterprises.
Export volumes remain stable, but companies are struggling to maintain profitability due to the high costs associated with transportation. The situation is expected to improve once the weather stabilizes and log transportation becomes more efficient. However, in the short term, companies will continue to face financial challenges.
Despite these challenges, the timber industry remains an important part of the economy in Gabon and Congo. The sector provides employment for thousands of people and contributes significantly to the countries’ GDP. The governments of Gabon and Congo are aware of the challenges facing the industry and are working to address them.
In Gabon, the government is implementing reforms to improve the efficiency of the timber industry. These reforms include the introduction of a new code of forest regulations, which aims to promote sustainable forest management and increase the competitiveness of the sector. The government is also working to improve transport infrastructure, including the construction of new roads and the rehabilitation of existing ones.
In Congo, the government is also working to improve the efficiency of the timber industry. The government has established a new agency, the National Agency for the Promotion of the Forest Economy, which is responsible for implementing reforms aimed at promoting sustainable forest management and increasing the competitiveness of the sector. The government is also working to improve transport infrastructure, including the rehabilitation of the Congo-Ocean Railway.
Overall, while the timber industry in Gabon and Congo is facing challenges, there are reasons for optimism. The governments of both countries are working to address the challenges facing the sector, and the industry remains an important part of the economy. With continued investment and reforms, the timber industry has the potential to become a more efficient and sustainable sector that benefits both the economy and the environment.
