The Ministry for Forests and Fisheries is actively overseeing the operations of all timber treatment facilities in the country, as mandated by the Forest (Timber Preservations) Regulation 1992.
In response to a statement from Opposition MP Premila Kumar regarding the Ministry’s role in timber treatment in Fiji, Minister Alitia Bainivalu confirmed that there are 29 registered timber treatment plants in total. Of these, 14 are licensed to operate this year.
Bainivalu explained that these plants receive annual licensing and are monitored quarterly. The monitoring process assesses operator competency, health and safety practices, and quality control. Timber samples are collected monthly to test for the concentration and penetration of preservative chemicals, ensuring compliance with required standards.
The primary objective of chemical treatment is to protect timber from insect damage and fungal decay, ultimately extending its durability and lifespan. Minister Bainivalu noted that untreated timber from many species, including pine, may not be suitable for use in exposed conditions or direct ground contact.
“Timber treatment significantly increases the service life of wood, especially for species with lower natural durability, such as some native timbers and main plantation species. However, it is important to understand that chemical treatment is not mandatory. Certain untreated timbers, like pine, can be used effectively for specific applications, particularly in non-load bearing situations and where they are not in contact with the ground,” she stated.
The Minister highlighted that some native species possess naturally durable heartwood that does not require treatment. She emphasized that consumers can choose to purchase either treated or untreated timber based on their specific needs.
“It is only when a timber processor decides to conduct treatment that the current regulations come into effect to ensure that quality and safety standards are adhered to,” Bainivalu added.