FLEGT | Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade

Definition

FLEGT, standing for Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade, is the European Union's comprehensive policy framework, established in 2003, aimed at reducing illegal logging globally. The core objective is to strengthen forest sustainability, improve governance structures in timber-producing nations, and facilitate legitimate trade.

Core Process: Voluntary Partnership Agreements (VPAs) and Licensing

The practical mechanism of FLEGT is the Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA). These are bilateral trade agreements between the EU and timber-producing countries outside the EU. A VPA establishes a rigorous Timber Legality Assurance System (TLAS) within the partner country. Once fully operational and ratified, the country can issue FLEGT licenses.

A FLEGT license is a crucial document confirming that the timber or timber product complies fully with all relevant national laws of the exporting country, from harvest to export. For logistics and trade professionals, this license acts as definitive proof of compliance under EU law.

Impact on EU Timber Regulation (EUTR)

The issuance of a FLEGT license has direct regulatory implications for EU importers. Timber and timber products covered by a valid FLEGT license are automatically considered to comply with the requirements of the EU Timber Regulation (EUTR No 995/2010).

This means that operators placing this licensed timber on the EU market do not need to perform additional Due Diligence checks otherwise mandated by the EUTR, significantly streamlining the compliance process.

Expert Advice

Logistics companies and timber importers must treat the acquisition of FLEGT-licensed material as a strategic priority. Utilizing FLEGT-licensed products minimizes supply chain risk associated with illegal harvesting and substantially simplifies customs clearance and regulatory audits within the EU.

Always verify the license status and ensure the VPA is fully ratified and active for the exporting country. This preemptive compliance strategy saves significant time and resources compared to navigating complex Due Diligence systems required for non-licensed wood.

Key Takeaways for Compliance

• FLEGT aims to eradicate illegal logging and foster sustainable forest management globally.

• Valid FLEGT licenses guarantee legality and compliance with the EU Timber Regulation.

• Using FLEGT-licensed material exempts EU operators from mandatory EUTR Due Diligence requirements.

• VPAs are the legal framework enabling license issuance between the EU and partner nations.