The Timber Producers Association (TPAZ) has urged the government to put up strict security measures when the Democratic Republic of Congo starts to export Mukula logs through Zambia.
The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has allowed the DRC to transport 3, 400 containers containing Mukula logs through Zambia for exports.
Minister in charge Jean Kapata said this will be done under security escort so as not to allow any manipulation.
But TPAZ Vice President Charles Masange feels that some unscrupulous people may take advantage of this and export Mukula to needy countries.
Mr. Masange says in as much as this is good for improved relations between the two countries, it is important that the government thoroughly monitors the transit of these Mukula logs.
He has further appealed to the government to allow local people to import timber from DRC and Angola.
Meanwhile, the association has expressed shock that some timber producers are against the introduction of ‘Zambia Auction Floors’ in the ten provinces.
Mr. Masange says these are important platforms as they will help local timber traders to sale their timber directly to the buyers.
He has since appealed to the Ministries of Finance and Commerce, Trade and Industry to expedite the process of introducing these floors.