Decision No. 1279/MAF on the Determination of Non-Timber Forest Product Lists I, II, and III.

This Decision establishes a regulatory framework for managing Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) in Laos, issued under the Law on Forestry (2019). It serves to categorize various forest resources—including roots, leaves, flowers, and vines—into three distinct lists to ensure their sustainable exploitation and conservation. The general objective is to balance socio-economic development with the protection of biodiversity and the national environment.
By defining these lists (I, II, and III), the Ministry regulates which species can be harvested for commercial purposes versus those requiring stricter protection. This systematic classification assists forestry officers and local communities in managing forest resources, supporting rural livelihoods while preventing the over-exploitation of rare or ecologically significant flora.