TPAZ urges promotion of exports of timber as a means of foreign exchange earning

Timber Producers Association of Zambia (TPAZ) has encouraged government to promote the export of timber as a way of earning foreign exchange.

TPAZ Vice President Charles Masange says there are different valuable timber species in Zambia which if exported can earn the country the much needed foreign exchange.

Mr. Masange says foreigners have identified a few species which even government is aware that if well managed and exported can help the country during this economic trying moment.

He says there is an urgent need for government through the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry, and the Ministry of Lands to sit down with timber producers in Zambia and see how best they can work together to generate foreign exchange from timber exportation.

Mr Masange points out that wood species such as Mukula, Akalongwe and Indale, if well managed, can be exported at the same price as copper.