During a press conference at Ukraine’s Media Center, State Forestry Agency head Viktor Smal highlighted the agency’s commitment to modernizing the country’s forestry management practices. Smal emphasized that the new traceability system would enable authorities to track wood from its origin through to final use, ensuring compliance with international standards. This development follows growing pressure from the European Union to improve environmental and economic transparency across member states.
The project is being executed in collaboration with the State Enterprise LIAC (Forestry Innovation and Analytical Center), whose CEO Hamlet Pogosyan noted that the initiative would enhance both accountability and efficiency in the forestry supply chain. Pogosyan described the system as a critical step toward aligning Ukraine’s forestry practices with EU regulations, which are known for their rigorous environmental and regulatory requirements.
Smal also mentioned that the initiative would address long-standing issues of corruption in the forestry sector, where opaque dealings have led to significant financial losses and environmental degradation. By implementing a transparent traceability chain, the agency aims to promote sustainable practices and ensure that all wood products are sourced legally and responsibly. This development has been welcomed by environmental groups and industry stakeholders who have long called for greater oversight in the sector.