200 Reserved Forests/Protected Forests Designated in Shan State

According to the Shan State Forest Department, 132 reserved forests and 68 protected forests, totaling 200 reserved forests/protected forests, have been designated within Shan State. It is said that these reserved forests/protected forests were mostly designated in Shan State (Eastern) and (Southern). It is understood that the designation and implementation of these reserved forests/protected forests were carried out with the aim of conserving biodiversity, balancing the climate, expanding forest areas, and fulfilling the basic needs of local ethnic people for food, clothing, and shelter. It is said that 7.23 million acres have been designated for 132 reserved forests, 1.36 million acres for 68 protected forests, and a total of 8.59 million acres for the 200 reserved forests/protected forests. By designating these reserved forests/protected forests, it will support trees, forests, the natural environment, and many ecosystems, and once the reserved forests/protected forests are established, it will be possible to control and protect forests from destruction in accordance with the Forest Law, and legal action can be taken according to the Forest Law. The Shan State Forest Department, in order to sustainably conserve forest resources, not only designates reserved forests/protected forests but also inspects, apprehends, and takes legal action against illegal logging, and it is understood that over 600 tons of teak, hardwood, and various other types of timber were seized in 2026.