Central African nations are moving to prohibit the export of raw timber by 2028, a policy shift designed to force processing and value addition within the region.
The plan involves the six member states of the Economic and Monetary Community of Central Africa (CEMAC) alongside the Democratic Republic of Congo.
5%. By banning raw exports, the governments aim to retain more economic value domestically rather than shipping unprocessed timber to international buyers.
The move comes as global demand for wood products continues to reshape supply chains in resource-rich regions.
The decision follows a sharp rise in raw material costs, with log prices in the first quarter of 2026 jumping 23.5%.
By banning raw exports, the governments aim to retain more economic value domestically rather than shipping unprocessed timber to international buyers.
This strategy mirrors similar resource nationalism trends seen in other commodity sectors across the continent.