For more than a decade, the illegal trade in Burmese teak has stood as a stark example of how environmental crime, corruption and conflict intersect within global markets. Recent enforcement actions in Europe and the US mark an important shift – authorities are increasingly recognising that importing timber linked to military-controlled supply chains is not […]
Corruption is a critical enabling factor behind the illegal wildlife trade and forest crime – it not only facilitates environmental crime, but is also a major impediment to law enforcement and criminal justice
... Teak is highly prized in luxury yacht building for its durability, water-repellent properties and elegant appearance. And as the best teak on Earth is found in Myanmar (formerly known as Burma), it may be assumed that it will have been used for the acres of decking on Bezos's yacht, although neither he nor Oceanco have confirmed it
The first successful criminal prosecutions under the EU Timber Regulation may be a turning point in meaningful enforcement of the law created to keep stolen and illicit timber out of the bloc’s markets.
Since the military coup in Myanmar in 2021, EIA’s Forests campaigners have been investigating and exposing the illicit timber trade from Myanmar to international markets
The next time you see a superyacht know this – it is more than likely decked out with Myanmar teak. EIA and the people in Myanmar call it ‘blood timber’ and for good reason