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Heriberto López and the Latent Threat to the Sector: "We Do Not Dream of a Region Without a Forestry Industry"

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In "Conversando con la Acoforag," the president of the National Federation of Forestry Transport and Related Unions (FENASITRANFOR), Heriberto López Cárcamo, clearly and with concern addressed the growing tension affecting the forestry sector in the south of the country.

His testimony, direct and laden with union experience, exposed one of the most sensitive aspects of the conflict in the southern macrozone: the persistent threat from radicalized actors demanding the complete removal of forestry companies from the territory.

"When you hear or read about what happens in some communities, especially where more radical groups like the CAM or others operate, you realize their struggle is not simply about reclaiming identity or ancestral lands. The phrase repeated over and over is clear: 'out with the forestry companies,'" López emphasized.

A Dangerous Slogan

For López, this slogan is not just a symbolic threat. It is a declaration of intent that directly jeopardizes the livelihoods of thousands of workers, many of whom are represented by FENASITRANFOR.

"It's not about whether there are or aren't legitimate historical demands. The problem is when that demand turns into violence and is framed in a discourse that criminalizes an entire industry—then the danger becomes real. How do you expel an industry? Through crime? Through threats? That’s what’s been happening for years."

The union leader recalled that, particularly since 1997, the forestry sector has been the target of attacks, threats, and sabotage, with irreversible human and economic consequences. Despite this, he noted with concern how the political world remains divided on the issue, with some sectors downplaying or even validating these radical expressions.

The Weight of Employment and the Local Economy

López highlighted that the forestry industry is neither an outsider nor an imposition in the region. On the contrary, it is a structural part of regional economic development. In the CMPC area alone, he estimates between 12,500 and 13,000 workers are employed, many directly linked to transportation, services, security, and machinery operations.

"The forestry industry provides the highest wages in many southern communes. It is an economic engine that has brought stability to thousands of families. So, when the slogan 'out with the forestry companies' is thrown around, it’s not just an attack on a company but on an entire chain of work and livelihood."

In response, López stressed that forestry workers do not see themselves as part of a territorial dispute but as victims of unjustified violence that has been excessively tolerated by the state and some political sectors.

Commission for Peace: Expectations and Distrust

Regarding the current Commission for Peace and Understanding, promoted by the government to address tensions in La Araucanía and Biobío, the leader was clear: he sees good intentions but also fears the process could be co-opted by particular interests or end up marginalizing the contributions and voices of those who work directly in the territory.

"We worry that this commission won’t firmly address the threats to the forestry sector. There are groups that don’t want peace or understanding—they seek to profit from the conflict. We can’t let them steal the spotlight."

López argues that the real challenge lies in defending the rule of law, without concessions to violence, and ensuring that any dialogue process does not exclude workers or ignore the impact of dismantling an industry that has been present since the early 20th century.

A Call for Realism and Unity

"We do not dream of a region without a forestry industry. We cannot believe the solution to the conflict is eliminating the jobs of thousands. We need realism, honest dialogue, and above all, a country that understands peace is not built with threats," said the leader.

The president of FENASITRANFOR thus left a clear message not only for the political world but also for citizens and social actors influencing the territorial debate: without dignified employment and respect for the work of those sustaining productive activity, there can be no development or coexistence.

The full interview on our YouTube channel: