ABSTRACT
This chapter analyses the process of developing the bioeconomy policy in Argentina, recognising the main stakeholders involved (government, academia, private forest sector, among others) and specifying the most significant initiatives and outcomes. The study was based on a qualitative analysis of documents and two illustrative subnational cases (USUBI Project and Patagonian bioprospecting). Emphasis is on the forestry sector and the role of non-timber forest products (NTFPs) in transiting to a successful bioeconomy. After sustained inter-ministerial efforts, Argentina has developed strategic initiatives addressing the main bioeconomic challenges and opportunities. The bioeconomy policy acknowledges NTFPs for their major economic importance at national and local levels, including their potential to contribute to rural development, market expansion, forest conservation, and ecosystem sustainability. Argentina is in the process of integrating NTFPs into the transition to the bioeconomy; significant progress has been made in the last decade, while recent empirical experiences have strengthened the path to a forest-based bioeconomy. Progress cannot be made for NTFPs in the bioeconomy without government support and prior identification of market trends and opportunities. Forest policies should be reinforced to reflect and enhance the potential of NTFPs in achieving rural development and poverty alleviation.
