Ghana Becomes First in Africa to Issue FLEGT Timber Licence

Ghana has made history by becoming the first African nation and the second globally—after Indonesia—to officially launch the Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade (FLEGT) licence, a landmark achievement in the global fight against illegal logging and unsustainable timber trade.

The official launch, held today, follows the successful go-live of Ghana’s FLEGT licensing system on Friday, 15 August 2025, ushering in a new era of verified and legal timber exports from the country to the European Union (EU).

Culmination of 16 Years of Reform

The milestone represents the conclusion of a 16-year process of reforms, partnerships, and institutional strengthening in Ghana’s forest sector. A critical step was completed in July 2025, when Parliament ratified 131 Timber Utilisation Contracts (TUCs)—the final legal requirement for FLEGT licensing.

The FLEGT licence provides assurance that timber and timber-derived products exported from Ghana to the EU are harvested and processed legally in compliance with national laws. Importantly, products with a valid FLEGT licence are considered automatically compliant with the EU Timber Regulation (EUTR), granting them unhindered access to the European market and eliminating the risk of rejection over legality concerns.

Boost for Ghana’s Timber Industry

Over 350 timber industry operators have been trained in the new system, ensuring that exporters and buyers alike can navigate the licensing process smoothly.

This new framework enhances market confidence in Ghana’s timber products, potentially boosting exports while closing the door on illegal operators. By eliminating the need for additional due diligence on the part of EU importers, Ghanaian exporters now have a competitive edge in one of the world’s most demanding markets.

Global and Environmental Significance

Beyond trade facilitation, the FLEGT system carries broader environmental and governance benefits. By certifying only legally sourced timber, Ghana is strengthening its fight against illegal logging, a practice that has historically threatened biodiversity, rural livelihoods, and climate resilience.

The roll-out also supports Ghana’s obligations under the EU Deforestation Regulation and global climate change commitments, including contributions to sustainable land use, reduced carbon emissions, and biodiversity conservation.

Ghana as a Continental Leader

Ghana’s achievement positions it as a continental trailblazer in sustainable forestry. The country becomes the first in Africa to reach this milestone under the Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA) it signed with the EU in 2009. The EU-Ghana VPA sought to improve forest governance, ensure legal compliance, and promote sustainable forest management practices across the sector.

Globally, only Indonesia had previously succeeded in implementing the FLEGT licensing system, making Ghana’s success a significant precedent for other African timber-producing countries.

Looking Ahead

Government officials, industry leaders, and international partners hailed the development as a transformative moment for Ghana’s forestry sector. It not only guarantees legal trade but also creates a model for other African nations aiming to balance economic development with environmental stewardship.

With the FLEGT licence now active, Ghana is poised to strengthen its role in international timber markets, reinforce its climate commitments, and inspire a continental movement toward sustainable forest governance.