Peter Zormelo, Trade and Industry Manager at the Timber Industry Development Division (TIDD) of the Forestry Commission, has expressed grave concern about the rapid depletion of Ghana’s forest.

According to him, the country’s forest cover had declined from 8.5 million hectares to 1.8 million hectares within 100 years. Mr. Zormelo, who was speaking at the National Forest Forum, said Ghana could be compelled to import large volumes of logs if the depletion of the forest continues.

He said TIDD was working with the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and other stakeholders to regularize the import of logs. Mr Zormelo said currently some companies were importing logs in small quantities which were very expensive.

The regularization, when achieved, would enable the industry to import large quantities of logs to reduce cost, he said. Ghana currently exports about 400,000 cubic metres of wood per annum and consumes 600,000 cubic meters locally.

Mr. Zormelo therefore entreated players in the industry to venture into the cultivation of bamboo. The forum, which was put together by Civic Response, a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), gave stakeholders the opportunity to discuss issues affecting the industry.