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**Summary:**

The fifth edition of the World Teak Conference (WTC), a major international forum for teak conservation and trade, is set to begin in Kochi, India, on September 17, 2025. This marks the first time India is hosting the summit. Over 350 delegates from 40+ countries, including scientists, policymakers, and trade representatives, will attend the three-day event focused on sustainable teak management and the industry’s future. The conference will be inaugurated by Rajesh Ravindran, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, and feature keynote speakers from the Indian government and international organizations.

**News Article:**

**World Teak Conference Opens in Kochi, India, Focusing on Sustainable Future**

**KOCHI, INDIA – September 16, 2025** – The 5th World Teak Conference (WTC), a pivotal gathering for stakeholders in the teak industry, is set to commence tomorrow, September 17th, at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Kochi. This marks the first time India has hosted the prestigious event, highlighting the nation’s growing role in global forestry and conservation efforts.

The three-day conference will bring together over 350 delegates from more than 40 countries, including forestry scientists, policymakers, researchers, and trade representatives. The focus of the WTC will be on sustainable teak management practices and charting a course for the future of the global teak industry.

The inaugural session, scheduled for 9:30 AM, will be inaugurated by Rajesh Ravindran, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests. K.P. Sudheer, Principal Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology, will chair the session.

Keynote addresses will be delivered by prominent figures in the field, including K.B. Singh, Inspector General of Forests at the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change; Sheam Satkuru, executive director of the International Tropical Timber Organisation (ITTO) based in Japan; and Hugh Brown, chairman of the International Teak Information Network (TEAKNET).

Organizers anticipate productive discussions and collaborations that will contribute to the long-term sustainability of teak resources worldwide. The conference underscores the importance of international cooperation in addressing the challenges and opportunities within the global teak market.

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