Bangkok – The five Mekong nations of Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam lost 746,168 hectares of tree cover last year, an expanse roughly the size of the Bangkok Metropolitan Area. More than 154,000 hectares of that total came from primary forest, while nearly 200,000 hectares fell inside protected areas. The figures come from an analysis of satellite data released by the Global Land Analysis and Discovery laboratory at the University of Maryland in partnership with Global Nature Watch. ([1])
The Scale of Last Year’s Losses
The combined loss across the region reached 1.8 million acres, a striking figure even as overall rates eased. Primary forests, which store the greatest biodiversity and carbon, accounted for a sizable share of the damage. Protected zones, meant to serve as strongholds for wildlife and ecosystems, still lost substantial ground. Travelers who visit national parks and river corridors in these countries often pass through landscapes that continue to face pressure from multiple directions.
A Noticeable Drop From the Prior Year
Deforestation across the Mekong fell nearly 25 percent compared with 2024 levels, extending a decline that began in 2023. Every country in the group recorded lower losses than the year before. The improvement followed a period of higher commodity prices and more frequent fires that had driven faster clearing in earlier years. Still, the absolute numbers remain large, and experts caution that one year of slower loss does not guarantee a lasting reversal.
Possible Reasons for the Slowdown
Several factors appear to have contributed to the reduced pace. Fewer wildfires, increased rainfall, tighter enforcement of existing rules, and softer prices for key commodities all played a role. These elements can shift quickly, however, and analysts note that short-term relief often masks deeper drivers such as agricultural expansion and infrastructure projects. The region’s forests therefore face continued risk even when annual totals improve.
Persistent Pressures on Popular Destinations
Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam each continue to balance economic growth with forest protection. Tourism in these countries often highlights lush landscapes and river systems that depend on healthy forests upstream. When tree cover disappears, the effects can reach scenic areas and wildlife habitats that draw visitors from around the world. Sustained monitoring and enforcement will determine whether the recent slowdown becomes a longer-term pattern.
