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Acoforag Manager Warns That Timber Theft Will Not Disappear

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• René Muñoz, Manager of the Association of Forestry Contractors, discussed the persistence of this crime and the measures implemented to combat it with the portal Sabes.cl.

Despite efforts and progress in the fight against timber theft in Chile, René Muñoz, manager of the Association of Forestry Contractors (Acoforag), argues that this crime will not disappear due to its economic appeal and the scale of the forestry heritage.

In an interview with Sabes.cl, Muñoz highlights the reduction in crimes and attacks against forestry contractors following the enactment of a law in September 2022 but warns that the problem persists.

He affirmed the work of authorities, such as delegate Humberto Toro in the province of Arauco and prosecutor Roberto Garrido in La Araucanía, which has led to the arrest and prosecution of criminal groups and leaders involved in timber theft. Additionally, he mentions the implementation of systems like Buena Madera, which enables timber traceability from its origin to its destination, and georeferencing in shipping documents as measures that have improved control and the fight against this crime.

However, Muñoz is skeptical about the total eradication of timber theft, considering it part of an already established criminal system that supplies and trades stolen wood. Despite progress, the manager emphasizes that the forestry sector remains vital for the region, generating 40% of employment and being one of the few industries with growth prospects in the future.

The interview also addresses criticisms of the forestry sector, often accused of not generating enough employment or offering low-quality jobs. Muñoz debunks these myths, asserting that wages in the sector are above the minimum and that forestry not only provides jobs but is also an economic pillar for the region.

In summary, although significant progress has been made in the fight against timber theft in Chile, the reality is that this crime remains a concern for the forestry sector. Authorities and the industry continue working together to improve controls and reduce the incidence of this crime, but the battle is far from over.

The full interview is available on Sabes' YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZF73KZRlmeg