Papua New Guinea is to host the Third APEC Meeting of Ministers Responsible for Forestry in October.
It will be the first time PNG hosts an APEC Ministerial Meeting and comes as the country prepares for hosting the major APEC leaders summit in 2018.
PNG's Minister for Forests, Douglas Tomuriesa says the meeting will provide an opportunity for PNG to chair discussion on future directions in forestry.
He says forestry-related economic activity makes up a vital part of PNG's economy and it is essential to ensure this sector remains sustainable .
Mr Tomuriesa says important issues to be discussed at the meeting include technical cooperation between economies to ensure best practices, the prevention of illegal logging and engagement with local communities.
He claims the government is taking significant steps in ensuring forestry sustainability including announcing the end of round log exports, and are nearing a resolution of forestry-related issues relating to Special Agriculture and Business Leases.
