IF all mahogany trees in Vanua Levu were logged, the sector would earn about $745million, according to Commissioner Northern Uraia Rainima.
Mr Rainima said the total mahogany plantation area for Vanua Levu was 16,713 hectares.
“This equates to around 2.5 million cubic metres of mahogany-sawn logs,” he said at consultations organised by the Fiji Hardwood Corporation Ltd in Labasa yesterday.
In addition, he said the harvest and sale of these logs would fetch $298 per cubic metre at the current average log price.
“If it was to be processed into sawn timber, it would double the log value,” Mr Rainima said.
He said this signified that Vanua Levu mahogany needs to be sold at niche markets internationally.
“This is to attract better value from our current mahogany timber value.”
FHCL is set to begin harvesting operations in Vanua Levu for the first time.
General manager Semi Dranibaka said they were committed to work hand in hand with landowners to ensure a successful and harmonious process.
Supporting the objective, Mr Rainima said landowners up North have patiently waited decades for the harvest of their mahogany trees.
“This is to fulfil the purpose for which they offered their resources to lease land for mahogany planting.”
Mr Rainima said this would support ongoing efforts to empower landowners and promote sustainable development.
“The National Development Plan outlines a comprehensive roadmap for inclusive and sustainable development, with a strong focus on poverty reduction, social welfare and the environment.”
He added that the decision made by the company was a courageous one.
