The government has proposed to introduce new regulations aimed at streamlining the timber industry by tightening control over exports, imports, and the grading of forest products. The policies outlined in the Forest Conservation and Management (Export and Import) Rules, 2025, and the Forest Conservation and Management (Grading and Valuation) Regulations, 2025, are expected to impact timber prices, trade, and supply chains across the country.
Kenya has long been a significant producer of timber, with forests in regions such as the Mau, Kakamega, and Aberdares providing wood for both domestic use and export.
However, the industry has faced challenges, including illegal logging, unsustainable harvesting, and fluctuating prices due to inconsistent regulations. The new policies are designed to bring order to the sector by ensuring that all timber is properly graded and that both imports and exports follow strict guidelines.
A heap of timber at a timber yard, March 4, 2025.
