FSC Suspends Memorandum of Understanding with APRIL Following Reports of Alleged Violence

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) has suspended its Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Asia Pacific Resources International Holdings Ltd. (APRIL) and its corporate group, effective immediately. 

FSC was recently informed of serious allegations of violence involving Toba Pulp Lestari (TPL), a member of APRIL’s corporate group, and an Indigenous community in North Sumatra, Indonesia. These allegations, which include reports of attacks on community members, if confirmed, would be contrary to the intent and commitments of the MoU. 

FSC will consider lifting the suspension if an independent investigation is conducted which identifies the root causes of the conflict, and results in the transparent implementation of corrective measures in line with the Remedy Framework. Failure to demonstrate meaningful progress may lead to the termination of the MoU. 

The FSC Remedy Framework was created to provide a path for companies that have caused harm to communities and forests to acknowledge responsibility, repair damage, and prevent future harm.

FSC reaffirms its commitment to respecting the rights of Indigenous Peoples and local communities, and to ensuring that the Remedy Process upholds their dignity and delivers fair and effective outcomes.