February 2014: The Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) has released an info brief discussing the local benefits of non-timber forest products (NTFPs) in Cambodia. The report also explores the challenges of illegal logging, conflicting policies on NTFP royalties, and insufficient local capacity to enhance support for NTFP management and trade.

The study focuses on 16 local communities and the most commonly used NTFP’s, including bamboo, rattan, resin and one species of edible tarantula. Overall, the report notes that those communities close to markets tend to lack raw materials as a result of forest degradation, while communities with limited access to raw materials tend to be isolated from markets.

With regard to policy recommendations, the report suggests that policies and regulations related to NTFP be clarified and communities be empowered to prevent degradation. The report also calls for improved transportation infrastructure and more secure land rights. Finally, the brief notes the importance of local community participation in project design, nursery propagation for NTFP species, capacity building for NTFP management, and funding for reforestation. CIFOR is a member of the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR). [Publication: No Forest, No NTFPs for Rural Communities in Cambodia]