"It's a shame the timber sector was so hit and discredited," says Minister Romero after Brazil clears Bolivian wood of drugs

Bolivian officials are asserting that recent forensic tests have cleared seized timber destined for Chile and Brazil of any drug contamination, challenging earlier reports that tarnished the country's timber industry. The results, confirmed by Brazil's Federal Police on July 22, showed no presence of cocaine in a 260-ton shipment of Bolivian wood detained earlier this year.

Minister of Planning and Environment, Fernando Romero, expressed strong criticism regarding the way the situation was handled by authorities in neighboring countries. He described the initial accusations as "irresponsible" and damaging to both the vital timber export sector and Bolivia's overall image. Romero emphasized the need for official explanations through diplomatic channels.

Romero stated, "It is a shame that the (timber) sector has been so hit and discredited, I think even irresponsibly. Let's hope this can be rectified because it is one of the most important export sectors for Bolivia." He added that the handling of the issue "should have explanations through the Chancellors' offices and through those who were happily giving a series of speeches or interviews that were out of place and were against a sector that is fundamental for Bolivia."

Following the negative drug test results, affected parties within Bolivia are not only demanding official clarification but also seeking compensation for the reputational harm inflicted upon the sector. The incident highlights the significant economic and reputational stakes involved in international trade and the importance of accurate, verified information in preventing damage to national industries.