Reliable statistics on trade in natural products do not
exist. Most natural products are traded within various industries
and therefore with various end uses. Moreover, the lack of
harmonized definitions makes it difficult to collect and obtain
market information. Most natural products are traded in rather
small quantities. The general direction of trade in these products
is from developing to developed countries. Some products do reach
substantial levels, such as honey, gum arabic, rattan, forest nuts
and mushrooms, medicinal plants, essential oils, and pharmaceutical
products. Most are exported in raw or semi-processed form. Trade in
natural products cover a wide range of sectors, including the
pharmaceutical, herbal medicine, personal care and cosmetics,
chemicals and household products, and food industry sectors.
However, the supply channels for raw materials may be similar and
wholesalers, including exporters, traders, brokers and agents, may
sell to a range of different industries. Trade data are rarely
collected or published at a national level. Much production and
consumption are at subsistence level. National legislation and
policies often do not provide frameworks for a rational and
sustainable use of a wild resource. A general picture is that there
is increased emphasis on safety, efficacy and quality, which has
resulted in more research and development, a shift towards
standardised products, and requirements for high-quality raw
materials. Sustainability is also an increasingly important factor,
especially regarding the environment from which natural products
originate. |