6/3/2010 | RX

The alliance was created to ensure importers and supply chains understand the emerging new trade policies, Timberweb reported.

Its members include: World Resources Institute, the Environmental Investigation Agency, the U.S. Agency for International Development, the American Paper & Forest Products Assn., the Hardwood Federation, Ikea and the International Wood Products Association, among others.

Tackling illegal logging has become a priority for several large nations over the past few years.

The United States became the first country to ban imports of illegal wood and related products in 2008. The European Union is in the final stages of approving a new regulation to curb illegal timber. Australia is also considering legislation to prohibit illegal logging.

The alliance will develop online resources to help assess risk of encountering illegal wood, document best practices and challenges associated with lumber trade and help companies comply with import regulations.

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