On June 7th, in Washington D.C., Mr. Tran Quang Bao, Director General of the Vietnam Administration of Forestry (VNFOREST), held a meeting with representatives from the International Wood Products Association (IWPA) to enhance bilateral cooperation in timber trade.
IWPA was represented by Ms. Ashley Amidon, Executive Director; Mr. Joe O’Donnell, Director of Government Affairs; and Mr. Bryan Courtney, President of the Association and Industrial Products Director at Genesis Products.
The Vietnamese delegation, in addition to VNFOREST representatives, included industry associations such as the Vietnam Timber and Forest Product Association (VIFOREST), the Handicraft and Wood Industry Association of Ho Chi Minh City (HAWA), and the Dong Nai Wood and Handicraft Association (DOWA).
Discussing Strategic Directions and Transparency Commitments
Both sides exchanged views on timber trade policies, prioritizing bilateral cooperation, and developing the supply chain. The discussion focused on promoting transparency, legalizing the entire chain, and moving towards the sustainable development of the timber industry amid increasingly strict requirements for traceability and international compliance.
IWPA provided several updates on new U.S. timber trade policies, particularly regulations related to imports from Vietnam. According to Ms. Amidon, the U.S. is strengthening requirements for traceability and accountability throughout the supply chain.
Vietnam Actively Integrates and Diversifies Raw Material Sources
The Vietnamese side reaffirmed its commitment to effectively implementing the VPA/FLEGT Agreement with the EU, the timber cooperation agreement with the U.S., and actively preparing for compliance with the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR).
Director General Tran Quang Bao emphasized that the U.S. is not only an important export market but also a long-term strategic partner for Vietnam’s timber industry. Vietnam expressed its desire to continue increasing raw timber imports from the U.S. to meet domestic production needs, while building a stable and sustainable partnership between the two countries.
Opportunities for Expanding Cooperation Between Businesses
Ms. Ashley Amidon highly praised Vietnam’s clear progress in improving its institutions and promoting transparent and legal timber production and trade. She noted the significant potential for cooperation between businesses in both countries and affirmed IWPA’s commitment to continue acting as a bridge, supporting businesses in expanding their relationships and jointly promoting the sustainable development of the global timber industry.
As a leading North American organization in imported timber trade, IWPA currently brings together over 170 members, including international importers, manufacturers, and service providers. The association serves as a bridge between businesses, policymakers, and international organizations in promoting transparent, legal, and responsible timber trade.
Source: https://vietnamagriculture.nongnghiep.vn/