(de Ware Tijd) APOERA – Yesterday, lumber company Greenheart Group opened its new sawmill along the Corantijn River near Apoera. The company claims the operation is the first of its kind in Suriname. “We will saw 130,000 cubic meters of wood here every year,” says Greenheart vice president David Wu. Construction of the sawmill, which currently employs 200, took two years.
In the future, more employment will be offered, as a third production line is under construction. Wu says Greenheart wants to launch Suriname on the international lumber market, adding, “In recent years, our company has invested only in Suriname, around US$ 30 million. We have not made a profit yet, but we see potential in this country.” He also emphasizes that Greenheart’s production methods preserve the forest.
Public Works (OW) Minister Abrahams who officially opened the sawmill on behalf of the government, says the government wants to stimulate production, “and this is the tangible result of our efforts.” Henri Saelens, a lumber purchaser from Belgium, is pleased with the new sawmill. “This facility really is the top of the line,” he says, pointing out that he has already placed an order. Saelens adds that the mill’s international FSC certificate is an advantage, as this means the operation is above board and sustainable.
In his speech, Abrahams stated he will certainly discuss infrastructure with Greenheart, as “we have a common responsibility to keep the roads accessible.” Wu claims his company is satisfied with the transportation options so far. Pontoons take the lumber to Nickerie and then it is transported by road to Paramaribo, and shipped abroad. “But this is a deep river, and there may be some other options,” Wu hinted.
