Thailand

Forest context

Thailand’s forests and woodlands form a mosaic of important ecosystems that underpin biodiversity, watershed functions and rural livelihoods. Forest and land-use dynamics are shaped by agricultural systems and production, including natural rubber, timber and fruit orchards. Although deforestation has declined considerably in recent years, agricultural expansion continues to cause forest loss – particularly the growth of rubber and oil palm plantations – with infrastructure development and illegal logging also contributing. National forest policy frameworks and community forest initiatives play a central role in supporting sustainable forest management, forest restoration and landscape resilience.

Our approach

EFI supports Thailand in improving agricultural and environmental practices and facilitating global market access. Our work focuses on smallholder inclusion, increasing awareness of traceability requirements, and improving smallholder livelihoods. Our approach includes support to capacity building and training, technical assessments, and multi-stakeholder engagement. The aim is to foster sustainable, transparent supply chains for forest-risk commodities, such as natural rubber and timber.   

In Thailand, EFI engages primarily with government authorities, smallholders and cooperatives to enhance understanding of and compliance with emerging deforestation-free global market standards, and increase adoption of agricultural practices that reinforce sustainable production and market access. Through work at carefully selected pilot sites, we support the strengthening of traceability systems and procedures, and training smallholders and cooperatives on best agricultural and environmental practices. Our work ultimately contributes to resilient, inclusive value chains linked to Thailand’s forests and rural economies.