Post by : Shakul
Vietnam has enacted a new government decree aimed at reinforcing legal frameworks against illegal forest activities such as encroachment, occupation, and unauthorized resource use. Decree No. 146/2026/ND-CP, announced on May 6, 2026, outlines enhanced administrative penalties within the forestry sector, reflecting the government's commitment to forest conservation and overall environmental protection.
The decree encompasses 42 articles detailing various forestry infractions, including unlawful deforestation, forest occupation, illicit transportation of forest products, and violations of regulations concerning forest fire prevention. It also addresses unauthorized tourism and detrimental activities in protected forest areas. This legislation applies to all individuals and organizations, both domestic and foreign, within Vietnam's territory.
The maximum penalties have been significantly increased; individuals may face fines up to VND 500 million, while organizations could incur penalties of VND 1 billion. These stricter fines are designed to deter illegal land occupation and misuse of conservation areas, which are critical for biodiversity and sustainability across Vietnam.
The decree specifies penalties commensurate with the type and area of forest land affected. Minor encroachment in production or protective forests could lead to fines starting at VND 1 million, whereas severe illegal occupation might incur fines of VND 60 to 80 million. Violators impacting natural forests will see penalties double, due to their ecological significance.
Furthermore, the decree imposes stringent regulations on unauthorized tourism and commercial exploitation of forest areas. Organizing trips without consent from forest owners could result in fines between VND 4 million to VND 6 million, while businesses running services or projects without the necessary permissions will face heftier penalties.
Specific focus is directed at illegal development projects within special-use forests and environmentally sensitive areas. Authorities warned that failing to comply with approved environmental management plans could incur fines of up to VND 50 million, alongside mandatory restoration of any damaged areas.
Additionally, the crackdown extends to unauthorized harvesting and cultivating of medicinal plants in protected zones, which has detrimental effects on fragile ecosystems. Violators causing further harm to the environment may also face additional sanctions under existing forestry laws.
The government underscores that safeguarding forests is a national objective, especially amidst increasing environmental challenges such as climate change and biodiversity loss. Authorities believe that stricter regulations, coupled with enhanced monitoring, will aid in curbing illegal activities and fortifying vital forest ecosystems.
This new regulation will come into force on June 25, 2026, replacing previous forestry penalty structures established in 2019 and 2022. Officials state that this updated framework signifies Vietnam's enhanced dedication to sustainable environmental governance and robust protections for forests and wildlife habitats.
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