Cambodia Steps Up Forest Protection Measures, Warns Against Illegal Logging and Charcoal Production in Kratie

Cambodia's National Forest Administration, in collaboration with the Kratie Provincial Department of Forestry and the Chit Borei District Unified Command, has conducted direct guidance to citizens in Kratie province regarding illegal logging and charcoal production. Officials inspected charcoal kilns and depots, instructing residents to cease activities involving the felling of trees for charcoal production and to participate in the sustainable conservation of natural resources. The guidance took place on September 7, 2024, in Village 105, Thmei Commune, Chit Borei District, Kratie Province. According to forestry experts, this measure was initiated following reports and media coverage of Samrong and tractor vehicles transporting firewood and charcoal in the area. Upon receiving this information, the leadership of the National Forest Administration immediately ordered its specialized forces to investigate and inspect the sites. As a result, the working team advised the owners of charcoal kilns and local residents to stop felling trees for their kilns. Although some residents were reportedly collecting and processing wood waste or charcoal fragments for domestic use, such as fertilizer and sanitary charcoal, forestry experts and authorities still requested them to completely suspend all logging and charcoal transportation activities to collectively protect the remaining forest resources for future generations. Source: Kampuchea Thmey Security