VOI - Voice of Indonesia | RRI - Radio Republik Indonesia

The Indonesian government initiated a study on the implementation of the Forest Law Enforcement Governance and Trade (FLEGT) agreement with the European Union. This is related to trade in forest products and agricultural commodities associated with the aspect of deforestation (deforestation).

FLEGT itself is commonly known as law enforcement, governance. As well as trade in the forestry sector.

Director General of Sustainable Forest Management (PHL) KLHK Agus Justianto said this study was an important milestone. To find out global policies related to product legality and forest sustainability aspects in the trade of forest products.

"This study is expected to provide an overview of the acceptability, recognition, perception and market incentives, especially the European market for FLEGT-licensed timber," Agus said in a press statement, Sunday (9/25/2022).

According to him, the study is a follow-up to high-level discussions. Discussion between the Minister of Environment and Forestry (LHK) with the Ambassadors of the Republic of Indonesia to Europe.

The study was carried out by a team from the University of Freiburg, Germany and the Sebijak Institute of Gajah Mada University. With financial support from the Government of Indonesia (Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia to the Federal Republic of Germany) and from the British Government.

“The study is expected to provide information on how the FLEGT VPA currently functions, particularly in Indonesia and Europe. What are the new demand-side policy measures emerging in some key markets," he said.

He mentioned Indonesia's hope that the FLEGT VPA can be implemented consistently by both parties. Both in terms of producing and consuming countries.

“Producing countries need to provide broad market recognition of national systems through partnerships that apply the principles of mutual trust. Mutual respect and mutual benefit of the parties involved," he said.

After the launch of the results of this study, the Ministry of Environment and Forestry together with the Indonesian Embassy in the Republic of Germany held a meeting. To discuss the results of the study and recommendations related to policies that need to be taken in the future.

The meeting discussed two main issues, namely trade barriers faced by wood-producing countries and efforts to overcome barriers. Then, what strategies can be used to strengthen national schemes in each producing country.

The results of the next study will be the basis for the formulation of cooperation in the recognition of legality guarantee schemes. This will be discussed at ‘Broader market recognition’ and at the Conference of Parties (COP) 27 forum. (RRI)