Beneath the forest canopy, humans benefit from numerous products. These non-timber forest products (NTFPs) significantly contribute to the livelihoods and income of approximately 1.3 billion people who rely on forest resources and services. However, despite their importance, NTFP trade often goes unnoticed compared to the more visible timber trade.
Community-Based Non-Timber Enterprises (CBNEs) generate income for local communities while promoting the conservation of natural resources through forest protection and sustainable harvesting practices. In the context of evolving social forestry programs across South and Southeast Asia, CBNEs have untapped potential in sectors such as health and beauty, food, cosmetics, furniture and handicrafts, textiles, and other industries. However, they are often overlooked due to perceptions of being insignificant players with limited capacity, small-scale operations, weak market access, lack of organization, and insufficient collaboration to leverage their unique strengths and enter markets strategically. A dynamic and supportive policy environment to enable their success is still lacking.
Recognizing the immense but underutilized potential of thousands of CBNEs across the region and their vital contributions to community livelihoods and forest conservation, the Non-Timber Forest Products Exchange Programme (NTFP-EP) has established a platform to bring public attention to CBNEs. This online forum aims to facilitate information exchange, capacity building, market engagement, and policy advocacy to support CBNEs. It will serve as a space for sharing, networking, collaboration, and addressing ongoing challenges. This initiative provides CBNEs with opportunities to grow, connect, and navigate the post-pandemic era, where increasing attention and action are being mobilized across various sectors, industries, and generations.
