25.04.2025
According to data published by the Directorate General of Economy and Fiscal Policy, Gabon's timber sector recorded a 6.6% decline in activity in the fourth quarter of 2024, marking a continuation of the slowdown in production over the previous three quarters.
This contraction can be explained by several economic factors:
Logistical disruptions over several years, particularly with regard to log transport, are contributing to the fragile economic situation of forestry and industrial companies.
“This decline must be analyzed with caution. It highlights the need to strengthen logistics infrastructure and continue efforts to develop the sector. The momentum gained in local processing, certification, and forest governance remains strong and should help Gabon be seen as a reliable supplier of tropical timber worldwide.”
— Jacqueline Lardit - van de Pol, ATIBT representative in Libreville
Indeed, despite the decline in production in the fourth quarter, sustained demand for plywood from the European Union led to a 26.7% increase in production for the whole of 2024.
This context highlights the challenges of a sustainable development strategy for the timber industry, based on competitiveness, traceability, and access to demanding markets.
To read the full article:
Gabon records a 6.6% decline in timber activity in the fourth quarter of 2024 – Le Nouveau Gabon
