Core Viewpoint - Zimbabwe is facing a severe shortage of timber resources, leading companies to rely on imports to fill the supply gap [1] Group 1: Timber Resource Shortage - Over the past two decades, deforestation, frequent wildfires, and encroachment on agricultural land have significantly reduced forest areas, with more than half of the forest land being illegally occupied [1] - The President of the Zimbabwe Timber Association, Dewa, warns that without effective measures, the shortage will continue to worsen [1] Group 2: Impact on Industry - The timber regeneration cycle takes up to 25 years, meaning that even immediate replanting efforts will not provide short-term relief [1] - The tightening supply has led to increased costs in the construction industry, with timber prices rising across the board [1]