When sourcing solid teak furniture from Indonesia, European importers must be well-informed about wood legality and sustainability certifications. Two key systems dominate international trade discussions: FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) and SVLK (Sistem Verifikasi Legalitas Kayu – Indonesia’s Timber Legality Assurance System).
Understanding the differences, similarities, and regulatory implications of FSC vs SVLK is critical for businesses importing into the EU, UK, EFTA, and other eco-conscious markets.
This educational guide breaks down the essentials of each certification system and explains what importers must know to make ethical, legal, and smart sourcing decisions.
What Is FSC Certification?
The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is an international, non-profit organization promoting responsible forest management worldwide.
- ✅ Key Features:
- Recognized globally
- Ensures environmental, social, and economic sustainability
- FSC-certified wood is tracked from forest to final product
- Voluntary but respected by consumers and retailers in Europe
- 📌 FSC Types:
- FSC 100%: All material from FSC-certified forests
- FSC Mix: Wood from FSC forests + controlled sources
- FSC Recycled: From post-consumer reclaimed wood
What Is SVLK Certification?
SVLK (Sistem Verifikasi Legalitas Kayu) is Indonesia’s mandatory timber legality certification, created to comply with EU and global timber legality requirements.
- ✅ Key Features:
- Mandatory for all wood exports from Indonesia
- Ensures wood is harvested legally (government-approved sources)
- Overseen by Indonesian Ministry of Environment and Forestry
- Required for FLEGT Licensing (EU Timber Regulation compliance)
FSC vs SVLK: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | FSC | SVLK |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Voluntary international certification | Mandatory national certification |
| Origin | Global | Indonesia only |
| Focus | Sustainability, ecosystem, rights | Legal harvesting, traceability |
| Accepted in EU? | Yes (not required legally) | Yes (meets EU Timber Regulation) |
| Control Chain | Full chain of custody | Legality documents, audit trail |
| Cost to Supplier | Higher | Lower (standard for Indonesian exports) |
What European Importers Must Know
1. SVLK is Legally Required for Indonesian Teak
European importers cannot legally import Indonesian wood furniture without SVLK certification. It acts as a FLEGT license equivalent.
⚠️ Importing non-SVLK Indonesian wood violates EU Timber Regulation (EUTR).
2. FSC is Optional – But Adds Brand Value
- Adds eco-label appeal for retail buyers
- Preferred by green-conscious brands
- Important for public procurement or large chains (e.g. IKEA, Bauhaus)
3. SVLK = Verified Legal Timber
- Legal origin
- Verified supply chain
- Audited by 3rd parties (e.g. TÜV, BSI, etc.)
4. You Can Have Both FSC + SVLK
Some Indonesian manufacturers offer dual certification, giving the best of both:
- Legal compliance (SVLK)
- Sustainability branding (FSC)
How to Verify SVLK When Importing Teak Furniture
🔍 Ask Your Supplier for:
- V-Legal Documents (issued by LVLK bodies)
- Packing List & Invoice with V-Legal code
- Company certification number & validity
✅ Many factories include this automatically in their export documents.
🔍 Check Online:
Use Indonesia’s SVLK Verification Portal to validate exporter legality.
Best Practices for European Buyers
🌍 If You’re a Retailer:
- SVLK is sufficient for legality
- FSC gives you eco-marketing advantage
🏗️ If You’re an Architect/Developer:
- Consider FSC for green-certified building projects
- SVLK ensures compliance at customs
📦 If You’re a Wholesaler/Importer:
- Work only with SVLK-certified suppliers
- Request sample documents in advance
- Ask for quality control photo updates
Final Thoughts: Which One Do You Need?
Both FSC and SVLK serve important roles — but they’re not the same.
| Goal | Certification You Need |
|---|---|
| Legal Import to Europe | ✅ SVLK |
| Eco-friendly branding | ✅ FSC (optional but useful) |
| Compliance with EU Timber Reg. | ✅ SVLK |
| High-end retail marketing | ✅ FSC adds value |
Buy Legally Certified Teak Furniture from Indonesia
We supply SVLK certified teak furniture ready for export to Europe, UK, and beyond. Some collections also carry FSC certification upon request.
- ✅ SVLK documentation included in every shipment
- ✅ Custom sizes, export packaging, and QC photos
- ✅ Factory visits or Zoom calls available
Secure, legal, and sustainable — that’s how teak export should be.