VIETNAM'S PLANS FOR FOREST DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

Interviews carried out in Vietnam of local and national government officials as well as data from scientific institutions there reveal that Vietnam's forest policy emphasizes conservation and afforestation. The development of forested regions protects Vietnam against the effects of severe climatic events such as floods which are expected to increase in frequency if global warming progresses. Evidence of the seriousness of Vietnam's position is the ban of exports of round and cut logs which was instituted in early 1992. This is a brave move for a country short of foreign exchange and contrasts sharply with the policies of some of Vietnam's Southeast Asian neighbours. Approximately 75% of total inanimate energy comes from fuel wood and logs. Therefore, afforestation strategies involve rural people as paid custodians of tracts of forest, Sustainable harvesting of wood is allowed, while poaching of logs is effectively prevented. An increase in forest cover from 26% to 40% of Vietnam's territory is part of Vietnam's National Environment Action Plan, but future development of forest resources is constrained by a severe shortage of funds. In conclusion, Vietnam's commitment to forest development complements global efforts to preserve tropical rain forests, but will require substantial foreign aid.