A team of eight officials from the Ugyen Wangchuck Institute for Forestry Research and Training (UWIFoRT) participated in a week-long Non-Detriment Finding (NDF) determination writeshop for Neopicrorhiza scrophulariiflora held in Gelephu from 2–8 March 2026.
The writeshop focused on assessing the population status, trade dynamics, management systems, and sustainable harvesting levels of the species in accordance with the guidelines of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
Throughout the workshop, participants reviewed scientific literature, analysed available field and trade data, identified knowledge gaps, and collaboratively drafted an NDF report. The exercise also strengthened participants’ capacity in applying scientific and precautionary approaches to ensure that any trade in the species does not negatively impact wild populations.
This initiative represents an important step towards sustainable management and conservation of medicinal plant resources in Bhutan, while supporting evidence-based decision-making for international trade regulation. We remain grateful to Royal Government of Bhutan, UNDP Bhutan and Bhutan For Life for supporting us.