Ruben Ravenberg, director of the Foundation for Forest Management and Supervision (SBB), has guaranteed strict measures against individuals within the organization found guilty of misconduct, particularly in cases of fraud involving timber exports. Investigations reveal that SBB has been registering lower export volumes, while import volumes abroad are significantly higher.
Earlier, the management dismissed six employees and suspended several others. The Export Department will undergo a complete restructuring to prevent further irregularities. These issues have resulted in significant financial losses for the Surinamese state. Ravenberg expressed surprise at the timber sector’s dissatisfaction with the restructuring, even though it has resolved some irregularities. To ensure better oversight, he has taken direct responsibility for the Export Department.
Another issue facing SBB is the payment of concession fees by concession holders. Speaking to Radio ABC, Ravenberg explained that many concession holders had prepaid their fees years in advance. However, a tariff adjustment has led to disputes, with holders refusing to pay the difference. This matter is now before the courts.
Ravenberg regrets that the target production for this year will not be met. While the goal was to prepare 400,000 tons of timber for export, the output is expected to fall short by approximately 100,000 tons due to ongoing challenges.
Despite the dispute over concession fees, SBB has not prohibited timber exporters from harvesting wood for production. Ravenberg emphasized that the organization will strictly monitor compliance with regulations. Concession holders with exploitation permits who have not utilized them for years will lose their concessions.
According to Ravenberg, there are many entrepreneurs eager to invest in timber production. He also lamented that while SBB generates income, all proceeds go to the state treasury, leaving the organization underfunded for operational activities.
Ravenberg advocates transitioning SBB from a foundation to an authority, granting it greater powers. However, this shift is expected to be realized only by 2025 or 2026.
