Thailand takes a leap towards certified forests through PEFC endorsement

6 June 2019 PEFC system news

Thailand has become the latest country to achieve PEFC endorsement of its national forest certification system. 

“This is a giant leap for forestry in Thailand,” said Mr. Sakchai Unjittikul, Chairman of Thailand Forest Certification Council (TFCC), our national member for Thailand.

The newly endorsed system will allow Thai forest owners and managers to demonstrate their sustainable forest management practices in line with global standards and requirements.

TFCC joined the PEFC alliance in November 2016 and applied for endorsement in April 2018.

Unlocking new opportunities

PEFC endorsement opens doors to international markets for certified products from Thailand.

“Our certified products can enter the international markets and add economic value to the value chain of forest products in Thailand, returning benefits to society and the environment,” said Mr. Withee Supithak, Vice Chairman of TFCC.

“We have benefited from the PEFC Alliance in many ways. Thanks to PEFC, the Thai standard is recognized internationally, while at the same time we are able to set up our standards in a way that is appropriate and applicable in Thailand,” he continued. 

“We have many opportunities to share experiences with other national members of PEFC and always receive support from the PEFC family.”

Next steps ahead

While the endorsement of the national system is a great achievement, the journey does not stop there. The next steps for TFCC will be the certification of the first hectares of Thai forests, as well as further raising awareness for sustainable forest management.

“We are looking forward to the first PEFC-certified hectares in Thailand, and to continue our collaboration with strong partners. Training and building awareness for the forestry sector are our first priorities,” Mr. Unjittikul underlined.

“We would like to thank our partners, including farmers, academics, the private sector, governments and state enterprises that always support us and have helped us to achieve PEFC endorsement.”