In this publication an analysis on how artisanal logging can become a real opportunity for local development through the improvement of local governance, by including all stakeholders in the process of decision making is done. It is structured around two main points: (1) the contribution of sale of trees in rural household incomes, and (2) the participation of women in tree sales operations.

The results show that the economic impact of selling trees in rural households is relatively low. Local communities prefer to sell the standing trees to artisanal loggers rather than to logging themselves, due to an ignorance on the value of trees, firstly, and secondly, the high investment costs.

Regarding women's participation in tree sales transactions, it is basically symbolic, because she is generally limited to a mere physical presence to listen negotiations between men and artisanal loggers.