Slovak State Forestry Launches Customer Audit Amid Wood Supply Controversy
The State Forest of the Slovak Republic (Lesy SR) is initiating a comprehensive audit of its wood customers to determine whether they are genuinely processing timber or simply re-exporting it, a move prompted by sustained criticism over inequitable distribution practices. Simultaneously, a change in leadership at the state-owned enterprise signals a potential shift in how Slovakia manages its valuable forest resources.
The recent actions follow weeks of scrutiny from the opposition SaS party and reporting by Diary E alleging that Lesy SR had been prioritizing suppliers lacking in-country production capabilities, to the detriment of domestic processors facing wood shortages. This situation has led to concerns about job losses within the Slovakian wood processing industry.
Urgent Review of Wood Supply Chains
On Thursday, Tibor Menyhart, CEO of Lesy SR, issued a directive to regional forest district heads throughout Slovakia. The letter mandates a thorough investigation into all wood customers, focusing on their handling of timber and verifying whether they engage in actual processing or merely resell the wood – either to other Slovak companies or for export abroad. This represents a significant attempt to address longstanding complaints about transparency and fairness in the allocation of state-owned wood.
“The goal is to ensure that our resources benefit the Slovak economy and support domestic employment,” a senior official stated.
Leadership Change Signals Potential Reform
Adding to the unfolding developments, Lesy SR recently replaced its Sales Director, Ján Mizerák, with lawyer Matúš Hubinský, previously the head of the Tribeč plant. This personnel change suggests a willingness to address the issues raised by critics and potentially restructure the organization’s sales strategy.
While a complete reversal of the current system – shifting wood supply from smaller “traffickers” to larger processors employing hundreds or thousands of workers – has not yet occurred, analysts believe this audit and leadership change represent a crucial first step.
Awaiting Further Action
The long-term impact of these measures remains to be seen. However, Menyhart’s letter to regional managers underscores the seriousness with which Lesy SR is now approaching the issue of wood supply chain integrity. The company faces mounting pressure to demonstrate a commitment to supporting domestic industry and ensuring sustainable forest management practices.
. The next steps will likely involve the publication of the audit findings and the implementation of new policies to govern wood sales and allocation.
