According to an EIA investigation, the state-owned Zambia Forestry and Forest Industries Corporation Limited (ZAFFICO) has been used as a front for illegal rosewood trafficking since 2017. While officially appointed to export seized illegally logged timber stockpiles, ZAFFICO issues "special permits" that enable well-connected traders to transport and export freshly harvested rosewood logs despite export bans. Chinese trafficker "Mr. D" revealed that these permits cost approximately $15,000 in bribes (called "government fees") per container, with an estimated 50 containers exported monthly over a two-year period. The scheme is allegedly protected by high-ranking government officials, with one trafficker claiming the operation is "protected by the party" and functions as a "joint venture with the central committee" of the ruling Patriotic Front party.