Forestry

SECTORS: FORESTRY

Suriname’s Forestry Sector: Sustainable Wood Products for the Global Market

Suriname, located on the northeastern coast of South America, is known for its expansive and pristine tropical rainforests, which cover 93% of the country. These forests provide a wealth of high-quality, sustainable wood products for global markets. The country’s commitment to responsible forestry management and its diverse array of timber species make Suriname a reliable partner for businesses seeking premium wood sourced sustainably.

Sustainable Forest Management by SBB

The Stichting Bosbeheer en Bostoezicht (SBB) is instrumental in overseeing the sustainable management of Suriname’s forests. Tasked with monitoring forest resources and ensuring compliance with sustainability standards, SBB plays a key role in upholding responsible logging practices that protect the environment. Suriname’s forestry industry benefits from their expert management, making it a leader in eco-friendly wood production.

Rich & Diverse Timber Resources

Suriname’s forests are home to over 1,000 tree species, with approximately 120 utilized for industrial and non-industrial purposes. Here are some of the most prominent and in-demand species:

  • Greenheart (Chlorocardium rodiei): Highly resistant to decay and marine borers, making it ideal for marine and heavy construction.

  • Purpleheart(Peltogyne spp.): Known for its striking purple color, Purpleheart is valued for its durability and used in fine woodworking and flooring.

  • Basralocus(Dicorynia guianensis): A versatile hardwood commonly used in heavy construction due to its strength and resistance to wear.

    Additional In-Demand Species:

  • Gronfolo (Qualea spp.): This medium hardwood is often used for general construction and flooring due to its durability.

  • Kopi (Goupia glabra): An excellent choice for furniture making and structural components, known for its workability.

  • Bruinhart (Vouacapoua americana): Renowned for its hardness and density, ideal for high-end furniture and specialty items.

  • Bolletrie (Manilkara bidentata): A durable hardwood used in both construction and furniture making.

  • Wana (Ocotea rubra): A high-quality timber known for its rich red color, commonly used in decking and outdoor furniture.

  • Maka-kabbes (Hymenolobium flavum): Valued for its versatility, this wood is used in various construction applications.

  • Gindya-udu (Terminalia guyanensis): A sought-after species for flooring and decking due to its strength.
  • Walaba (Eperua spp.): Known for its resistance to termites and its use in outdoor construction and utility poles.

Each of these species offers unique qualities in terms of appearance, strength, and durability, making Surinamese hardwoods desirable for a wide range of applications. From high-end furniture to heavy construction, these woods are in demand globally for their aesthetic and structural benefits.

Forestry Products for International Buyers

Suriname’s forestry sector offers a broad range of wood products that cater to the needs of global buyers and investors. These include:

  • Rough Sawn Lumber: Available in various hardwood species, rough sawn lumber from Suriname is ideal for further processing in manufacturing or construction.

  • Flooring and Decking: Produced from robust and durable woods, these products are suited for both indoor and outdoor use, providing long-lasting strength and beauty.

  • Mouldings: Crafted from high-quality timber, Suriname’s mouldings are designed to meet the specifications of architectural projects around the world.

  • Furniture Components: Exporters from Suriname supply premium-grade wood for high-end furniture manufacturing, renowned for its quality and finish.

  • Prefab Wooden Houses: With growing demand for eco-friendly construction, Suriname’s prefab houses offer sustainable housing solutions using durable tropical hardwoods.

These products are manufactured using advanced technology and adhere to international standards for quality and sustainability, making Suriname a trusted supplier of premium wood products.

Sustainable Management Systems

Sustainability is the heart of Suriname’s forestry industry. The CELOS Management System and Reduced Impact Logging (RIL) are key frameworks that ensure environmentally sound practices throughout the harvesting process. The Sustainable Forestry Information System Suriname (SFISS), introduced in 2019, is a digital platform that tracks every stage of wood production, from harvest to export. This system enhances traceability and ensures compliance with sustainable forest management standards, providing international buyers with full transparency.

Looking for a reliable, sustainable wood supplier? Contact our Trade Department to explore how Suriname’s premium wood products can meet your business needs:

Email: invest@sita.sr

Visualizing Suriname’s Forestry Data

To provide a clearer picture of Suriname’s forestry sector, we’ve created an engaging infographic showcasing key data points, such as forest cover, timber exports, and the country’s wood processing capacity.

Suriname’s forestry industry is positioned for growth, offering sustainable, high-quality wood products for the global market. Whether you are looking to invest or seeking new suppliers, Suriname’s forests are here to help your business grow.