The Solomon Islands government surrenders to the illegal logging. Caucht while attempting to export seven containers of logs using a milling license, the Asian company Chung Sol will be not santioned, it will simply warn.
Transparency Solomon Islands (TSI) says that the Government's action will not deter others from engaging in such illegal behavior, and labeled the Government irresponsible for its decision The decision by the Government "Chung Sol, is irresponsible and a blatant disregard for national rules and regulations" commented TSI. The country has lost millions due illegal logging. TSI is adamant that the decision not to prosecute Chung Sol will only fuel the perception that there is collusion and corruption in the some of the country's highest office: "The Government's action will not deter others from engaging in such behavior. Instead, it sends the wrong message to milling and logging companies, that any illegal behavior will be easily tolerated and condoned. It is about time the National Government takes a tougher stance and imposes appropriate sanctions against companies who breach the terms of their permits and carry out illegal forestry activities.
Transparency Solomon Islands is currently working on a Forest Governance Integrity Project funded by the European Union. It is carrying out research into corruption risk areas in the forestry sector, particularly in the licensing area.