FSC joined global leaders from government, industry, research institutions and international organizations at the Global Legal & Sustainable Timber Forum (GLSTF) 2026, contributing perspectives on timber legality, sustainability, responsible sourcing and supply chain resilience.
Co-hosted by the International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO) and the Commerce and Investment Promotion Institute of the Macao SAR (IPIM), the annual forum brought together more than 800 participants from 49 countries and regions under the theme "Innovation and Transformation – Pursuing Avenues for Resilient and Sustainable Global Timber Industries." The event was held in Macao SAR, China, on 22-23 September 2026.
As a major producer, processor and exporter of timber products, the Asia-Pacific region plays a critical role in global forest product supply chains. As market expectations and regulatory requirements continue to evolve, discussions on legality, traceability and sustainability are becoming increasingly important for businesses across the region.
FSC Contributes to Key Industry Discussions
FSC maintained a strong presence throughout the two-day event through expert participation in forum discussions and engagement with stakeholders at the FSC exhibition booth.
Representatives from FSC Asia Pacific and FSC Africa shared perspectives on strengthening legal and sustainable timber supply chains, supporting responsible sourcing and fostering collaboration across global markets.
During the forum, speakers highlighted the importance of building resilient supply chains that can respond to changing market requirements while maintaining commitments to legality and sustainability. Discussions also explored the growing role of innovation, digital solutions and green finance in supporting forest-based industries.
Advancing Timber Legality and Sustainability
A central theme throughout the forum was the increasing importance of legality, traceability and transparency in international timber trade.
As governments, businesses and financial institutions seek credible approaches to responsible sourcing, collaboration across the value chain is becoming increasingly important. Participants discussed how stronger partnerships between producers, buyers, policymakers and certification systems can help build confidence, reduce risk and create long-term value for forests and communities.
The conversations also underscored the role of market demand in driving investment in responsible forest management and expanding the availability of certified forest products.
Strengthening Partnerships for the Future
Beyond the speaking sessions, the FSC booth provided opportunities to connect with policymakers, businesses, industry associations, certificate holders and other stakeholders from around the world.
These discussions allowed FSC to exchange perspectives on responsible sourcing, legal and sustainable timber trade, and emerging market requirements while demonstrating how FSC certification can support transparency and sustainability across global supply chains.
As global markets continue to evolve, platforms such as GLSTF play an important role in fostering dialogue, collaboration and innovation across the forest sector.
FSC remains committed to working with partners across the supply chain to advance responsible forest management, support sustainable trade and help build resilient forest-based economies that benefit forests, businesses and communities alike.
