PERSONALITY PROFILE
Are we looking at solutions to these problems and what would your suggestions be to operate an efficient and effective industry ? Other than the resource challenge mentioned above issues like the modernisation off mills with regard to technology , product development , promotion and culture change in South Africa are all challenges that are within the sawmilling industries capabilities . They will take some effort and considerable expense but are obtainable .
One of our most important objectives at SSA is to promote the interests of all sawmillers , big and small , in the Republic of South Africa .
How difficult is it to operate in South Africa ? What are the specific constraints ? As we all know South Africa is in a difficult economic position right now and the future will depend much on what happens in political and government decision making in the near future . Moreover , it is extremely difficult to get things done at the moment . Issues like environmental impact assessments ( EIAs ) are cumbersome , expensive and time consuming , as an example .
What is SSA ’ s relationship with the South African government and are current regulations sufficient to nurture a functioning sector ? SSA currently enjoys a good relationship with all government department especially the Department of Trade Industry and Competition ( DTIC ) and we do a lot of work with them .
What , in your opinion , are the opportunities and the future outlook for the forestry , sawmilling and timber sectors in South Africa ? Forestry , and especially sawmilling , is experiencing a revived status across the world on the back of an eco-sustainable green wave as it is an environmentally friendly industry that mitigates climate change . The challenge for us in South Africa is to capitalise on the good public opinion . Issues like resource expansion in the country is critical to the future of not only sawmilling but all forestry products .
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32 AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2021 // www . timberiq . co . za