Over 5,000 cubic metres of forest by-products – seized as evidence of past offences – will be publicly auctioned early next month. The base value of the items is estimated at nearly half a million dollars.
The Committee for Inspection, Valuation and Auctioning of Transport and Forest By-products announced that the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries will conduct a public auction of the materials, which are stored at various locations by the Forestry Administration and forest management divisions.
According to the committee, the auction will include over 5,365 cubic metres of mixed timber and other forest by-products, with a total base value of 1,825,138,988 riel (around $450.000).
Documents for bidders are available at the Forestry Administration, located at No. 40 Norodom Boulevard, Phnom Penh, during office hours.
Completed documents must be submitted to the administration’s Department of Administration, Planning and Finance no later than 5pm on December 27.
The bids will be opened at the agriculture ministry on January 8.
The committee explained that individuals may only submit one bid.
Agiculture minister Dith Tina has urged the Forestry Administration to enhance conservation efforts and the sustainable development of forest and wildlife resources.
He also called for stronger measures to prevent illegal deforestation, emphasising national interests.
He issued the instructions as he presided over the administration’s December 12 annual review and planning meeting, where Suon Sovann, deputy head of the administration, reported on the achievements made in 2024.
Tina ordered the administration to improve its operations, maintain clarity, and cooperate effectively with provincial authorities and departments. He stressed the importance of focusing on public finance systems, integrating budget and performance planning, and addressing challenges while using past experiences to shape efficient, well-grounded future plans.
Encouraging the continuation of advanced community forestry programmes, the minister highlighted the importance of ownership, specific conditions and revenue generation from forestry and agricultural activities.
Sovann declined to comment on the administration's achievements, suggesting that The Post contact the ministry’s spokesperson instead.
Minitry spokesperson Khim Finan could not be reached for comment on December 13.