One-third of PNG log exports - I million cubic metres - coming from disputed and controversial SABL areas...

Land owners not consulted on PNG log exports

ABC Radio Australia

Up to one third of Papua New Guinea's log exports may have been made without the consent from land owners.

The Director of the Institute of National Affairs, Paul Barker, says that more than one third of PNG's logging exports last year came from Special Agricultural and Business Leases, or S-A-B-L's -- and in most cases, the leases have not had approval from customary land owners.

Under Forest Management Agreements, customary land owners and the state identify a prospective developer to use the land for agricultural purposes like palm oil and rice projects.... but developers dodge requirements for sustainable practice, often leasing vast areas on 99-year periods for different purposes.

Presenter: Tom Maddocks

Speaker: Paul Barker, Director of the Institute of National Affairs

Listen here: ABC Radio Australia