The Timber Producers Association of Zambia (TPAZ) has observed the need to invite Chinese experts in timber industry to train local timber producers to add value to timber.
The Association believes that this will help Zambia in exporting quality processed timber products.
TPAZ Vice President Charles Masange has told Money FM News via telephone that local timber producers need capital for them to add value to the raw materials in the timber industry.
Mr. Masange said at the moment, the timber producers lack financial muscle for them to expand their businesses.
He said the government should help the local timber producers with trainings in value addition by inviting experts from countries such as China and Algeria.
“It is not sustainable for us as a country to continue exporting timber in raw form. We are losing out in terms of revenue. Can we add value to our timber and give it value when exporting the timber products,” he lamented.
Mr. Masange added that Zambia will earn some revenue if it starts exporting processed timber as opposed to exporting it in raw form.