The Zambia National Association for Sawmillers has expressed optimism about the prospects of the timber industry in 2025, despite facing numerous challenges in 2024.

Speaking in an interview with Komboni News in Kitwe, the Association’s Secretary General Derrick Chilatu highlighted the difficulties faced by the sector last year, including load shedding, raw material shortages, and government policies.

Mr Chilatu says load shedding, in particular, had a devastating impact on the industry, with many sawmillers experiencing power outages during peak production hours.

He adds that this resulted in significant losses, with some members opting to abandon the business altogether.

He also noted the shortage of raw materials, which led to a depletion of stocks forcing saw millers to maximize the limited materials available.