Ghana has shipped its first timber under the FLEGT license to the EU, marking a significant step in sustainable timber trade. This development is crucial for the future of Africa's forests and could influence global forestry practices.

On November 4, 2025, Ghana marked a historic milestone by shipping its first timber under the EU's Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade (FLEGT) license, becoming the first African country to achieve this status. The FLEGT license, a result of 16 years of negotiations, certifies that all logging in Ghana is legal and sustainable, allowing timber to enter the EU market without additional checks. This development is seen as a potential model for other nations, as it emphasizes sustainable practices and community involvement in forestry. However, concerns arise regarding the future of such agreements, especially as the EU appears to be retreating from its commitments to forest protection, which could jeopardize similar initiatives in other African countries. The success of Ghana's system could influence global forestry practices and the fate of many of Africa's forests.