Kochi is gearing up to become the epicenter for global teak discussions as it hosts the prestigious fifth edition of the World Teak Conference (WTC) at the Grand Hyatt Hotel, starting on Wednesday, September 17. This marks a significant moment, as it’s the first time India has had the honor of welcoming this crucial international summit.
The three-day event is packed with insightful discussions, beginning with an inaugural session at 9:30 a.m. The conference will be officially inaugurated by Rajesh Ravindran, the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, with K.P. Sudheer, Principal Secretary for the Department of Science and Technology, chairing the opening session.
Attendees can anticipate engaging keynote addresses from leading figures in the forestry sector. Confirmed speakers include K.B. Singh, Inspector General of Forests, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, India; Sheam Satkuru, Executive Director of the International Tropical Timber Organisation (Japan); and Hugh Brown, Chairman of the International Teak Information Network (TEAKNET).
Bringing together a diverse assembly of over 350 delegates from more than 40 nations, the conference will feature forestry scientists, influential policymakers, dedicated researchers, and key trade representatives. Their collective focus will be on developing and implementing sustainable teak management strategies and shaping the future trajectory of the global teak industry.