Achievements of Forestry

Vietnam’s forestry sector has made significant progress through concerted efforts in forest restoration, sustainable management and biodiversity conservation. Since the 1990s, forest cover has increased from around 27% to over 42%, thanks to large-scale afforestation and regeneration programmes such as the Five Million Hectare Reforestation Project (Prime Minister’s Decision No. 661/QD-TTG). Sustainable forest management has been supported through community forestry, empowering local communities and combining local knowledge with scientific techniques. The growing number of forests certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) has opened up international markets for Vietnamese wood products. Conservation efforts have led to the establishment of large protected areas and national parks, such as Cuc Phuong, Cat Tien and Phong Nha-Ke Bang, which focus on biodiversity protection and the conservation of endangered species. Economically, sustainable management of timber and non-timber forest products (NTFP) has generated significant income for forest-dependent communities, while forest-based tourism has promoted ecotourism and local economic benefits. International cooperation, through programmes such as REDD+ and partnerships with organisations such as the United Nations and the World Bank, has provided useful technical assistance and funding to the Vietnamese forestry sector. Strong legal frameworks, including the Forestry Law and the Biodiversity Law, along with policies such as Payment for Forest Environmental Services (PFES), have promoted sustainable practices. Research and education initiatives at institutions such as the Vietnam Forestry University have contributed to the development of skilled human resources focused on sustainable management and conservation strategies. These achievements underscore Vietnam’s commitment to sustainable forest management and conservation.