Tropenbos International  has been working in Viet Nam since 2002 under an agreement between MARD and Tropenbos Foundation. We have focused our efforts on tropical forest research and building capacity of individuals and organizations working in agriculture and rural development in general, and the forest sector in particular. MARD was assigned by the Government of Viet Nam as the main counterpart of TBI Viet Nam and FIPI was selected by MARD as the implementing agency of TBI Viet Nam.

During the first phase (2001-2005), TBI Viet Nam carried out its research in the North-Central region, mainly in Thua Thien Hue province. TBI Viet Nam worked in partnership with local research institutes, universities, national parks, nature reserves and local authorities in its research projects and capacity building activities for forest players and organizations.

During the first phase (2001-2005) TBI Viet Nam has:

• contributed to the Forest Sector Support Programme (FSSP),
• strengthened relationships with other partners in the Forest Sector Support Programme (FSSP),
• supported the formulation of National Forest Research Strategy,
• provided education and training
  - MSc. scholarships
  - support for PhD students
  - short-term training courses,
• supported counterparts to carry out research projects.

Overall objective
To restore degraded forest and improve the contribution by forest ecosystem services to rural poverty alleviation through research and by developing effective mechanisms.

Specific objective
The use of sound and adequate information by government and forest organizations at all levels to shape benefit-sharing policies that sustain forest-based livelihoods and increase forest cover and services in rural areas.

Location
North-Central Eco-Agricultural Region (from Thanh Hoa to Thua Thien Hue province)