Furniture makers in Jepara, Central Java, recently met to discuss the constraints faced by small and medium enterprises in implementing the SVLK timber legality verification system.
The meeting was facilitated by the Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR).
, Mariana Lubis, was present.
The chairman of the Jepara Wood Crafts Association, Margono, pointed out that furniture craftsmen have limited access to investment capital, the availability and cost of raw materials, human resources, marketing know-how and SVLK enforcement. Although most of these problems have been around for a long time but compliance with the SVLK was a new and troublesome issue.
He added that applying for SVLK is also complex as most SMEs are unable to handle the new requirements. Secondly, compliance is a major expense for SMEs and thirdly, enterprises see no direct benefit in becoming V-legal.
In response, Mariana Lubis, Head of the Sub Directorate of Wood Legality Verification Information in the Ministry of Environment and Forestry, said SVLK compliance is the only path to access to the EU markets but she acknowledged SMEs face serious problems with implementation of the SVLK and that implementation needs to take account of the real conditions faced by small craftsmen.
Indonesian President Joko Widodo has also called on various ministries and agencies to modernise the handicraft industry so that the sector can expand.
He said efforts need to be made to address raw material supply, manufacturing technology as well as finishing and packaging to marketing.
Source: ITTO
