Core Viewpoint - Gabon's timber industry is experiencing significant growth, driven by government policies and Chinese investments, positioning the country as a key player in the global timber market [2][3][6]. Industry Overview - Gabon has a forest coverage of nearly 90%, with an estimated forest area of 23 million hectares and a commercial timber stock of 400 million cubic meters [2]. - The timber industry is the second-largest export sector in Gabon, contributing 7% to total exports and 5% to GDP in 2024 [3]. - The total revenue of the timber industry increased from 184 billion Central African francs in 2014 to 704 billion in 2022 [3]. Production and Processing - Gabon's timber production is expected to grow by nearly 50% by the end of 2025 compared to 2024 levels [3]. - The production of sawn timber, veneer, and plywood has seen substantial growth since 2010, with increases of 275%, 199%, and 76% respectively [4]. - The Okoumé wood, a key species, is projected to account for 58% of Gabon's timber output in 2024, with a total raw wood production of 4 million cubic meters [2]. Policy and Sustainability - Gabon has implemented a ban on raw wood exports since 2010 and established a 25-year logging cycle to ensure sustainable development [4]. - The government is promoting FSC certification and a national tracking system to ensure traceability from logging to export [4][5]. Chinese Investment and Collaboration - Over 30 Chinese companies are involved in the development of the timber industry in Gabon, focusing on various segments such as veneer, plywood, and furniture manufacturing [6]. - The Enkoc Economic Zone has become a hub for timber processing, with significant contributions from Chinese enterprises [6][7]. - Chinese investments have led to improved processing capabilities and infrastructure in Gabon, enhancing the competitiveness of Gabon's timber products in international markets [7].

Core Insights - Gabon's timber industry is a significant contributor to the economy, with the government implementing policies to enhance its development and sustainability [3][4][6] Industry Overview - Gabon is known for its rich forest resources, with approximately 90% forest coverage and an estimated 23 million hectares of forest area [1] - The timber industry is the second-largest export sector in Gabon, contributing 7% to total exports and 5% to GDP in 2024 [3] - Gabon's timber production is expected to increase by nearly 50% by the end of 2025 compared to 2024 [3] Timber Resources - Gabon has over 400 commercial tree species, with a total log reserve of 400 million cubic meters [1] - The Okoumé wood, a prized timber, has a stock of 130 million cubic meters, making it the most abundant in the world [2] Processing and Export - Gabon has become the leading exporter of veneer and plywood in Africa and the second globally [3] - The processing capacity has significantly increased, with sawn timber production rising by 275% since 2010 [4] Economic Zones and Investments - The Nkok Special Economic Zone has become a hub for the timber industry, attracting nearly 150 companies, including over 30 Chinese enterprises [4][6] - The zone has seen a 2.6-fold increase in processed timber exports since its establishment [4] Certification and Sustainability - Gabon has implemented a comprehensive ban on log exports since 2010 to protect forest resources and promote sustainable practices [4] - The introduction of a tracking system for timber ensures that all wood is legally sourced and traceable, enhancing its credibility in international markets [5] Chinese Investment - Chinese companies are playing a crucial role in Gabon's timber industry, contributing to capital, technology, and ecological sustainability [6] - The collaboration has led to significant improvements in timber processing capabilities and infrastructure development in Gabon [7]