Vice Chairman of the Provincial People’s Committee Nguyen The Giang inspects the growth of FSC-certified forests in Tan An (Chiem Hoa).

Currently, the province has over 83,000 hectares of FSC-certified forest, ranking first nationwide. Yên Sơn District alone accounts for nearly 24,500 hectares, the largest in the province. According to Mr. Le Quang Toan, Vice Chairman of the Yen Son District People’s Committee, FSC-certified forests not only increase farmers’ income by 5% - 10% but also protect their health by eliminating the use of chemical pesticides. The district also encourages the planting of large timber forests to enhance long-term economic value.

Enterprises and forest owners in Tuyen Quang are strictly implementing sustainable forest management practices, including forest planning, investment in forestry infrastructure, and workforce training. As a result, timber products such as paper, industrial wood panels, and household furniture can now be fully traceable and meet international standards, especially in demanding markets like the European Union.

The province currently has three nationally branded products: An Hoa paper, and timber and panel products from Woodsland Tuyen Quang JSC. In 2024, the province’s forestry processing industry is expected to generate VND4,791 billion in production value, with USD47.7 million in timber export revenue.

According to Mr. Le Quoc Khanh, Director of Woodsland Tuyen Quang, FSC certification is a prerequisite for raw timber to be accepted in strict markets. Each hectare of FSC-certified forest can yield 10–15% higher value compared to uncertified forests.

To capitalize on this advantage, Tuyen Quang is proposing a government-approved plan to become a high-tech forestry zone. Experts suggest that the province must continue to invest in improved seedlings, technical training, and cultivation processes to boost timber quality. Additionally, policies should be put in place to encourage forest owners, especially enterprises and cooperatives to take the lead in FSC development, serving as a model for households to follow.

With joint efforts from local authorities, businesses, and the community, Tuyen Quang is gradually asserting its position as a leading center for high-quality forestry in Vietnam, while enhancing the global competitiveness of its timber products.