Abstract
This paper uses panel data methods to determine the impact of the level of human development, export of forest products, rural population density, and political and civil liberties on plantation, natural and total forest area in 20 Asian countries. Results on forest transition pattern are mixed. Level of human development and export of forest products tend to have significant effect on forests in pooled models. Evidence for positive export effect on forest plantations suggests key role of market incentives in channeling private and public investments in expanding forest plantations, forest carbon sinks and for sustainable forest management. Observed simultaneity of influence suggests further research on latent influences on forest area.
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