From 7 to 13 September 2025, members of the FLEGT CSO Network and ALiSEA joined together for a seven-day intensive study tour in Thailand focused on forest ecosystem restoration, agroforestry, and sustainable livelihoods. The event gathered 35 participants, including representatives from community-based organizations, nonprofit associations, government agencies, and network boards. It provided a rare opportunity for cross-sectoral learning and exchange, strengthening collaboration between forestry, agriculture, and livelihood practitioners.

The study tour was designed to deepen participants’ understanding of sustainable forest management, agroforestry practices, and livelihood development while creating stronger connections among organizations that often work separately. By learning from the Thai experience, participants reflected on how these practices could be adapted to the Lao context to support communities, protect the environment, and improve local economies.

Throughout the week, the group visited key sites such as the Forest Industry Organization (FIO) teak plantations and sawmills in Phrae Province, where they explored sustainable teak plantation management, timber processing, and the integration of agroforestry systems. In Chiang Mai, they learned from ECHO Asia Impact Center about agroecological innovations, including biochar and soil improvement practices. The visit to Mae Tha Sustainable Agriculture Cooperative in Chiang Mai further inspired participants with the story of young farmers who transitioned from chemical farming to organic agriculture, linking environmental sustainability with improved livelihoods. Local cooperatives and farmer groups also shared their experiences in wood product processing and market-oriented enterprises, offering practical lessons for sustainable community-based businesses.

Beyond technical learning, the tour created an important platform for dialogue and connection. Organizations that usually focused only on forestry, agriculture, or livelihoods had the chance to meet, share perspectives, and explore opportunities to work together. This exchange strengthened relationships across networks and laid the foundation for future joint initiatives and project development. Many participants expressed their intention to integrate lessons from Thailand into their ongoing work in Laos, ensuring that the knowledge gained continues to benefit local communities.

In the end, this exchange highlighted the importance of building bridges between different sectors and networks. Implemented by The Association for Green (TAG) with generous support from RECOFTC and with the excellent facilitation of the Forest Industry Organization (FIO) team in Thailand, the study tour reaffirmed the value of regional exchanges as a way to inspire innovation, strengthen partnerships, and promote sustainable land use practices for a greener and more resilient future.