There is genuine cause for concern over the excessive exploitation of tropical forest in many regions, but also many misconceptions about the causes and sources of thisexploitation. The Economics of the Tropical Timber Trade provides a detailed analysis of the economic linkages between the trade and forest degradation. Based on a report prepared for the ITTO, it looks at current and future market conditions and assesses the impacts on tropical forests of both the international timber trade and domestic demand. The authors examine the causes of deforestation and compare the environmental impacts of the timber trade with other factors, such as the conversion of the forest to agriculture. Finally, they assess the national and international trade policy options and discuss the potential role that interventions in the international timber trade may have in promoting efficient and sustainable use of forest resources. This book is of interest to those concerned with forest management and policy, trade and environment, and with the economics of conservation and resource use.