NTTA Takes Over Role Of Keurhout Foundation

The Netherlands Timber Trade Association (NTTA) has taken over the validation of certificates for sustainable forestry from the Keurhout Foundation, which ceased its activities on 31 December 2003. The NTTA is the umbrella organisation of some 300 Dutch timber wholesalers. In a statement released by NTTA on 7 November 2003, its Managing Director, Mr. Andre de Boer said that the take-over fits in with the current policy of the NTTA and members will be able to use the new inspection facility from I January 2004.

The Keurhout Foundation, which was established in 1996, was formerly the gatekeeper for certificates for sustainable forestry that enter the Dutch market from all around the world. The minimum requirements for sustainable forestry set by the Dutch government served as the yardstick. According to its Chairman, Mr. Hoekzema, the ongoing lack of financial resources as well as the lack of political and social support led to the decision to wind up the Keurhout Foundation.

The NTTA will also take over the Keurhout logo from the Keurhout Foundation. However, it will maintain the Board of Experts which will decide whether a certificate qualifies for the Keurhout logo on the basis of the minimum requirements of the Dutch authorities. In its statement, the NTTA noted that a number of foreign timber suppliers have made great efforts to meet the minimum Dutch requirements.

With NTTA having taken over the work of the Keurhout Foundation and playing the gatekeeper function beginning 2004, it is understood that the phased approach in implementing timber certification, with time for improvements, will be taken into account when issuing the certificates. It is also understood that the NTTA will still consider the assessment reports that have been submitted to the Keurhout Foundation by the Malaysian Timber Certification Council (MTCC), and make a decision on the use of the Hallmark.