Bhutan imports at least Nu 4bn worth of wood products compared to some Nu 700 M of timber exports last year. And if this trade imbalance has to change, import substitution should be promoted through certification and branding of local products. This is one of the recommendations to increase the forestry sector’s contribution to the GDP.
Continuing the deliberations on the Review Report on Forestry Sector Contribution to the GDP, council members raised concerns about the clarity of recommendations.
The recommendation highlights the introduction of a national certification system to ensure the quality of Bhutanese wood products.
Moreover, it also states to build a strong, competitive brand to boost their credibility and global market appeal.
“Quality is also important, but more than that, I think price is important. Good quality trees and woods are abundant. If we can manufacture products in the country itself by supporting them financially, and sell the products at reasonable prices, our people will definitely buy,” said Sonam Tobgyel, MP, Trashigang.
“The recommendation says that the introduction of a national certification scheme will help in competing internationally. The objective is to reduce imports, but can certification alone fulfil the objective? It will be good if there can be more ways than just certification,” said Sonam Tenzin, MP, Trashi Yangtse.
“While constructing government buildings and infrastructures, imported bricks are not used. Bricks have to be locally manufactured. It would be good if the government could do the same with wood products. However, for private construction, it might be quite expensive,” said Tshering Wangchen, MP, Monggar.
The house decided to discuss this recommendation again next week after review.
The Natural Resources and Environment Committee presented seven recommendations while introducing the report last week. The House passed three recommendations today.
Devika Pradhan & Sangay Chozom
Edited by Tandin Phuntsho
