The negotiation of the Voluntary Partnership Agreement on Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade (VPA-FLEGT) between Viet Nam and the European Union (EU) was formally concluded in May 2017. The contents of the Voluntary Partnership Agreement are listed in Box 1. Following initialling of the Agreement, it is expected that the transition period to full implementation will take a number of years, involving operationalization of Viet Nam Timber Legality Assurance system (VNTLAS) and the FLEGT Licensing Scheme and other important elements of the VPA. The implementation process can be divided into three broad phases, as shown in Figure 1.1.

1. Viet Nam – European Union
Voluntary Partnership
Agreement on Forest Law
Enforcement, Governance
and Trade (VPA-FLEGT)
Joint
Implementation
Framework (JIF)
Version 4: December, 2017

2. ~ 1 ~
List of Contents
1. Introduction 3
1.1 Background 3
1.2 Purpose of the Joint Implementation Framework 5
1.3 Preparation of the framework 6
1.4 Structure and content of the framework 6
2. Overall Monitoring Tool 11
3. Description of Strategic Tasks and Outcome Areas 19
3.1 Strategic Task 1: VPA ratification process 19
3.2 Strategic Task 2: VPA management, monitoring and review mechanisms 20
3.2.1 Organisational arrangements 20
3.2.2 Priority actions and milestones in the JPC period and JIC period 23
3.3 Strategic Task 3: Development of VNTLAS legal documents, regulations and information
management systems
24
3.4 Strategic Task 4: Capacity building plans for verification agencies and private sector 28
3.4.1 Training program for sub-national verification agencies 28
3.4.2 Information, advisory and coaching services for the private sector 29
3.5 Strategic Task 5: Monitoring and evaluation mechnaisms for VPA implementation 32
3.5.1 Independent Evaluation (Annex VI) 33
3.5.2 Independent assessment of readiness of VNTLAS (Annex VII) 33
3.5.3 Public disclosure of information (Annex VIII) 33
3.5.4 VPA impact assessment and monitoring 35
3.6 Strategic Task 6: Information and communications strategy and products 36
3.7 Strategic Task 7: Stakeholder engagement, coordination and out-reach mechanisms 38
3.7.1 Multi-Stakeholder Implementation Core Group 39
3.7.2 Out-reach mechanisms and FLEGT Forum events 41
3.8 Strategic Task 8: VPA-FLEGT connected and supporting actions 41
4. Practical Arrangements for JIF 42
4.1 Investment and resource planning for JIF 42
4.2 Coordination of Technical Assistance inputs 42
Appendix 1. JIF Matrix of Actions
Appendix 2 JIF Preparation steps

3. ~ 2 ~
List of Tables and Figures
Figure 1.1 Phases of VPA implementation 3
Box 1.1 Contents of the VPA 4
Figure 1.2 Elements of VNTLAS 5
Figure 1.3 Links between JIF and Annual Roadmap and detailed plans 10
Figure 2.1 Monitoring framework: critical pathway and milestones 13
Table 2.1 Monitoring framework: description of milestones and indicative timeline 14
Figure 3.1 Organisational arrangements for JIF 21
Figure 3.2 Linkages between priority actions under Strategic Tasks 3, 4, 6 and 7 27
Table 3.1 Potential out-reach channels for private sector target groups 36
Table 3.2 Indicative list of information disclosure agencies 34
Figure 4.1 Coordination of Technical Assistance inputs 44
List of Acronyms
DARD Provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
DG-ENV Directorate General Environment, European Commission
EU European Union
EU-DEL European Union Delegation to Viet Nam
FIPI Forest Inventory and Planning Institute
FORMIS Forest Management Information System
FSIV Forest Sciences Institute of Viet Nam
JIC Joint Implementation Committee
JIF Joint Implementation Framework
JPC Joint Preparation Committee
LD Timber Legality Definition
MARD Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development
MOIT Ministry of Industry and Trader
MONRE Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment
OCS Organisations Classification System
VNFOREST Viet Nam Administration of Forestry
VNTLAS Viet Nam Timber Legality Assurance System
VNGO Network VNGO FLEGT Network

4. ~ 3 ~
1.1 Background
The negotiation of the Voluntary Partnership Agreement on Forest Law Enforcement,
Governance and Trade (VPA-FLEGT) between Viet Nam and the European Union (EU)
was formally concluded in May 2017. The contents of the Voluntary Partnership
Agreement are listed in Box 1. Following initialling of the Agreement, it is expected that
the transition period to full implementation will take a number of years, involving
operationalization of Viet Nam Timber Legality Assurance System (VNTLAS) and the
FLEGT Licensing Scheme and other important elements of the VPA. The implementation
process can be divided into three broad phases, as shown in Figure 1.1.
Figure 1.1 Phases of VPA implementation
In the first phase, Viet Nam and the EU will follow their respective procedures for
ratification of the Agreement, with the expectation that the Agreement will be formally
signed and ratified by the two parties within 2018. In this phase, preparatory work
begins to develop the VNTLAS and the other elements of the VPA (Figure 1.2). A Joint
Preparation Committee (JPC) will also be established to guide initial implementation.
The JPC will be co-chaired by senior officials from the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural
Development (MARD) on behalf of Viet Nam and the EU Delegation on behalf of the EU.
The main tasks of the Joint Preparation Committee have been agreed as follows:
 To facilitate the exchange of information between the parties;
 To serve as the platform to discuss planning and preparation of the
implementation of the Agreement before its entry into force;
Initialling
Agreement
(May 2017)
Ratification of
Agreement
(2018)
Independent
assessment
of readiness
of VNTLAS
Start of
FLEGT
licensing
Phase 3Phase 1 Phase 2
Joint
Implementation
Committee
established
Joint
Preparation
Committee
established
1. Introduction

5. ~ 4 ~
 To monitor progress in the design and implementation of the VNTLAS and the
Agreement as a whole; and
 Any other tasks that the parties may jointly agree on.
Box 1.1 Contents of the VPA
 Legal Text (the Agreement)
 Annex I: Product Coverage: the harmonized commodity codes for timber and timber
products covered under the FLEGT Licensing Scheme
 Annex II: Viet Nam Timber Legality Definition (LD)
Appendix 1A Legality Definition for Organisations
Appendix 1B Legality Definition for Households
 Annex III: Conditions governing the release for free circulation in the Union of timber
products exported from Viet Nam and covered by a FLEGT License
 Annex IV: FLEGT Licensing Scheme
Appendix 1 FLEGT License format
 Annex V: Viet Nam Timber Legality Assurance System (VNTLAS)
Appendix 1A Development, verification and approval of Legality Definition verifiers
for Organisations
Appendix 1B Development, verification and approval of Legality Definition verifiers
for Households
Appendix 2 Supply chain control
Appendix 3 Standard form for self-declaration of imported timber sources
 Annex VI: Terms of Reference for Independent Evaluation
 Annex VII: Criteria for assessment of the operational readiness of the Viet Nam Timber
Legality Assurance System
 Annex VIII: Public Disclosure of Information
 Annex IX: Functions of the Joint Implementation Committee
In the second phase after ratification, the Agreement formally enters into force, which
means that from this point onwards it becomes legally binding according to the
provisions of the main text and annexes of the Agreement. In this phase, the Joint
Preparation Committee will be replaced by a Joint Implementation Committee (JIC), the
functions of which are specified in Article 18 of the Agreement and in Annex IX.

6. ~ 5 ~
The actions in this second phase will lead up to a joint independent assessment of the
operational readiness of VNTLAS (as specified in Article 12 of the Agreement and in
accordance with the criteria specified in Annex VII). This assessment will begin when all
the preparatory work has been completed, and the verification and licensing systems
and other elements of the VPA are operational, including roll-out of the VNTLAS at sub-
national level and amongst the private sector. The independent assessment may be
conducted in several stages, to allow for weaknesses and actions to be identified,
addressed and then reassessed.
Viet Nam and the EU will subsequently decide on a date for commencement of the
FLEGT licensing scheme which will mark the beginning of the third phase (as specified
in Article 12 of the Agreement). The date for commencement of FLEGT licensing will be
subject to the successful outcomes of the independent assessment and agreement by the
parties that all conditions have been met to move on to full implementation.
1.2 Purpose of the Joint Implementation Framework
The purpose of the Joint Implementation Framework (JIF) is to provide a framework for
the Joint Preparation Committee, and later the Joint Implementation Committee, to
guide and monitor the initial implementation of the Agreement.
Figure 1.2 Elements of VNTLAS
National
system
applied to
all domestic
and export
markets
Measures
applied to
the EU
market
(1) Timber Legality Definition (LD):
Organisations and Households
(2) Development, verification and approval of
verifiers at all stages of supply chains
(7)Independentevaluation
(4) Supply chain control
(5) FLEGT Licensing
(6)Internalinspection,complaints
andfeedbackmechanisms
(3) Organisations classification system
and risk-based verification

7. ~ 6 ~
The JIF covers the period leading up to the independent assessment of the operational
readiness of VNTLAS (Phase 1 and 2 in Figure 1), and it focuses on the steps and actions
required to achieve the requirements of the independent assessment.
The Joint Implementation Framework has the following specific objectives:
 To identify the strategic tasks and priority actions needed to establish the
institutional mechanisms to implement the Agreement and to prepare and
operationalize the VNTLAS and other elements of the VPA;
 To identify responsibilities and sources of support and funding for these
strategic tasks and priority actions;
 To help promote stakeholder engagement and coordination around the actions
for implementation of the Agreement; and
 To provide a framework for monitoring implementation of the Agreement.
1.3 Preparation of the framework
The Joint Implementation Framework has been prepared through a multi-stakeholder
process, and is presented to the first meeting of the JPC for endorsement. The
preparation steps are summarized in Appendix 2.
It is intended that the JIF will be a ‘living document’ that will be revised and adapted
along the way as may be necessary. Implementation of the VPA will be a complex
process, including many different technical elements and lines of activity, as well as
involving a wide range of stakeholders. Therefore some flexibility will be needed to
adapt the JIF as circumstances arise. Any major revisions to the JIF will be coordinated
through VNFOREST and tabled for discussion at subsequent meetings of the JPC/JIC,
and where needed at prior meetings of the Joint Expert Meeting.
1.4 Structure and Content of the JIF
The JIF is organised around the following hierarchy:
 Eight Strategic Tasks
 Outcome Areas related to the strategic tasks
 Actions which contribute to and support each outcome area
 Milestones (or priority actions) to monitor progress.
The JIF document includes five parts:

8. ~ 7 ~
 Overall Monitoring Tool (Section 2)
 Description of Strategic Tasks, Outcome Areas and Milestones (Section 3)
 Practical arrangements for JIF (Section 4)
 JIF Matrix (Appendix 1)
 Annual Roadmap.
1.4.1 Overall Monitoring Tool
Section 2 of the JIF presents a Monitoring Tool that is designed to enable the JPC/JIC to
monitor the overall progress of implementation leading up to the independent
assessment of readiness of VNTLAS. The Monitoring Tool uses a number of Milestones
(or priority actions) taken from the JIF Matrix (Appendix 1). Not all actions listed in the
JIF Matrix are selected as milestones, but only those priority actions which are
considered crucial to achieve progress in the initial implementation of the Agreement.
The specific objectives of the Monitoring Tool are to enable the JPC/JIC to: (i) track
progress under each of the Strategic Tasks and Outcome Areas; (ii) identify tasks and
actions that may be experiencing delays or difficulties in implementation; and (iii) to
provide an input for the JPC/JIC to assess the extent to which the outcome areas have
been effectively achieved (i.e. towards establishing the nationally applied VNTLAS).
The monitoring tool is linked to the JIF Matrix and Annual Roadmap, and as such will be
periodically updated and will form part of the technical reporting to the JPC/JIC.
1.4.2 Strategic Tasks and Outcome Areas
Section 3 of the JIF provides a description of the Strategic Tasks and Outcome Areas,
which have been identified through consultation between VNFOREST and the EU and
with other stakeholders during preparation of the JIF. It is intended that the strategic
tasks and outcome areas will remain fixed; but there will be adjustment as may be
needed to the supporting actions under each heading and sub-heading along the way.
The eight Strategic Tasks and Outcome Areas are as follows:
Strategic Task ❶ VPA ratification process
1.1 VPA document package completed
1.2 EU ratification procedure completed
1.3 Viet Nam ratification procedure completed
1.4 Agreement ratified and published

9. ~ 8 ~
Strategic Task ❷ VPA management, monitoring and review mechanisms
2.1 JPC established, supported and fulfilling its functions (period before ratification)
2.2 JIC established, supported and fulfilling its functions (period after ratification)
Strategic Task ❸ Development of VNTLAS legal documents, regulations and
information management systems
3.1 VNTLAS investment and resource plan prepared
3.2 Preparatory work for VNTLAS and FLEGT licensing completed
3.2a Forest law violations information management system
3.2b Organisations Classification System (OCS)
3.2c Timber supply chain control system and timber product dossier requirements
3.2d Geographic risk categories for timber import controls
3.2e Species risk categories for timber import controls
3.2f Additional documentary evidence for timber import controls
3.2g Recognition by VNTLAS of voluntary and national certification schemes
3.2h FLEGT Licensing procedures
3.3 VNTLAS legal documents and regulations prepared and approved
3.4 Information management systems for OCS and FLEGT licensing established
3.5 VNTLAS guidelines and systems are field-tested
Strategic Task ❹ Capacity building plans for verification agencies and private sector
(Organisations and Households)
4.1 Capacity/training needs assessments conducted
4.2 Verification and licensing entities have capacity to implement VNTLAS
4.3 Organisations and Households are ready for VNTLAS implementation
Strategic Task ❺ Monitoring and evaluation mechanisms for VPA implementation
5.1 Independent Evaluation and related complaints mechanisms underway (Annex VI)
5.2 Independent assessment of readiness of VNTLAS underway (Annex VII)
5.3 Provisions for public disclosure of information fully in place (Annex VIII)
5.4 Mechanisms in place for VPA impact assessment and monitoring
Strategic Task ❻ Information and communications strategy and products
6.1 Information on the VPA and VNTLAS is effectively communicated jointly by the Parties
6.2 Information and communication programs for different stakeholder groups conducted
Strategic Task ❼ Stakeholder engagement, coordination and outreach mechanisms
7.1 Stakeholder engagement and coordination mechanisms established and supported

10. ~ 9 ~
7.2 FLEGT Forum events on VPA-FLEGT and VNTLAS initiated
7.3 Out-reach with provincial government leaders and local authorities
7.4 Out-reach with local communities and CSOs
7.5 Out-reach with non-domestic private sector actors
Strategic Task ❽ VPA-FLEGT connected and supporting actions
8.1 Development of related industry standards on timber legality
8.2 VPA-FLEGT related research and studies
8.3 Technical developments related to VNTLAS implementation
8.4 Regional and cross-border initiatives related to VPA-FLEGT
1.4.3 JIF Matrix
A detailed Matrix of the Strategic Tasks and Priority Actions is given in Appendix 1. The
purpose of the JIF Matrix is threefold. First, to provide an overall picture of the current
situation with respect to the actions of stakeholders involved in the process, for which it
is intended that the JIF Matrix will be periodically updated. Second, to help prioritize
actions and to identify gaps in support. And third, to help promote coordination and
synergy between these actions and the stakeholders involved.
The JIF Matrix sets out the following information: (i) the main areas of action of
different stakeholders related to each strategic task and outcome areas; (ii)
responsibilities, including the lead agency or agencies that are responsible for each
action and partner or supporting agencies; (iii) status of the action (proposed / planned
/ underway / completed); and (iv) the funding source or funding requirement.
1.4.4 Practical arrangements for JIF
Section 4 sets out some practical arrangements for the JIF, including steps to ensure
effective coordination of Technical Assistance inputs to the process. It should be noted
that this section does not include the main VPA implementation mechanisms, which are
covered as actions in other sections of the framework.
1.4.5 Annual Roadmap and detailed plans
To implement the JIF, the JPC/JIC will prepare an Annual Roadmap that sets out the
activities for each year, linked to the Monitoring Tool presented in Section 2. Two more
detailed implementation strategies and plans will also be prepared for key elements of
the JIF as shown in Figure 1.3.

11. ~ 10 ~
Figure 1.3 Links between JIF, Annual Roadmap and detailed plans
Annual Roadmap
Joint Implementation Framework
Strategic Tasks & Outcome Areas
Monitoring Tool (Milestones)
Matrix of Actions
VNTLAS
Investment and
Resource Plan
Public Disclosure of
Information and
Communications
Strategy and Plan

12. ~ 11 ~
The Monitoring Tool is presented in Figure 2.1 and Table 2.1.
Figure 2.1 identifies the 58 milestones (priority actions) that need to be achieved
leading up to the independent assessment of readiness of VNTLAS. The milestones are
shown in lettered boxes (A, B, C etc.) and the status of each milestone is colour-coded
(blue = action underway; yellow = action completed/achieved).
Table 2.1 gives a description of each milestone and an indicative timeline for
implementation, together with narrative comments (progress and status of the action,
reasons for any delays or difficulties in implementation, and effectiveness in achieving
the milestones). In Table 2.1 the milestones are also cross-referenced with the
corresponding action number in the JIF Matrix (Appendix 1).
In Figure 2.1, the milestones are presented in a pathway which shows the connections
between them. The milestones indicate the sequence of actions that is necessary to
move forward on a strategic task and outcome area.
In some cases, the milestones need to be fully completed and achieved before moving on
to the next action: these critical actions are identified in the chart. In other cases, work
can begin on an action in parallel with implementing the adjacent actions, for example
in order to conduct preparatory studies and to build capacity.
The milestone linkages that need to be achieved before commencing the independent
assessment of readiness of VNTLAS correspond to sections of Annex VII, as follows:
Milestone
linkages
Explanation
Section of
Annex VII
V –> AV
JIC decides/approves specific measures for VNTLAS, including: species risk
categories for timber imports, and recognition of voluntary certification and
national certification schemes.
Section 2.4
and 3.3
X –> AV
Appropriate and effective mechanisms for handling non-compliances and
violations in place, including: systems for detection and recording non-
compliances and violations and appropriate corrective actions.
Section 3.5
AK –> AV
VNTLAS verification systems fully established and operating, including:
verification of timber use rights, imported timber products, reconciliation of
Sections 2.1,
2.2, 2.3, 2.4,
3.1, 3.2 & 3.4
2. Overall Monitoring Tool

13. ~ 12 ~
timber quantities, LD based verification, supply chain control, and verification
agencies.
AL –> AV
FLEGT Licensing Scheme fully established and operating, including: licensing
authority, licensing procedures, shipment-based licensing, and queries on
issued FLEGT licenses.
Section 4
AO –> AV
Relevant verification entities have the capacity for verification, licensing, data
management and information systems.
Relevant
articles
AP –> AV
Organisations and Households along the supply chain are adequately informed
about and are ready for VNTLAS implementation.
Relevant
articles
AT –> AV
Independent Evaluator appointed including: organisation for implementation
and approved complaints mechanisms.
Section 5
AY/AZ/BA –
> AV
Information publically disclosed. Relevant
articles
X

14. ~ 13 ~
Figure 2.1 Monitoring framework: critical pathway and milestones

15. ~ 14 ~
Table 2.1 Monitoring framework: description of milestones and indicative timeline
Note: Under the column Main Responsibilities: “VNFOREST” refers to inputs from VNFOREST leadership and FLEGT Standing Office; “Multi-Stakeholder Core
Group” refers to inputs from stakeholders coordinated through the Multi-Stakeholder Implementation Core Group; “Tech. Panel” refers to inputs by the Technical
Review Panel.
Milestone
ActionNumber
(cf.JIFMatrix)
Strategic Tasks, Outcome Areas and Milestones Indicative Timeline Main Responsibilities
Strategic Task 1: VPA ratification process
2017 2018 2019 2020
Q1-2 Q3-4 Q1-2 Q3-4 Q1-2 Q3-4 Q1-2 Q3-4
Outcome 1.1 VPA Document package completed
A* 1.1.1 Starting point: Initialling VPA (May 2017) Viet Nam & EU
B* 1.1.2 Legal scrubbing of VPA document package EU/DG-ENV (lead role) & Viet Nam
Outcome 1.2 EU ratification procedure completed
C 1.2.1 Formal inter-service consultations on Agreement (and translation) EU
D 1.2.2 Submission of the Agreement by the Commission
E 1.2.3 Approval of Agreement by EU Council of Ministers EU
F* 1.2.4 Signing of Agreement by parties
G* 1.2.5 European Parliament consent and ratification of Agreement EU
Outcome 1.3 VN ratification procedure completed
H 1.3.1 VPA Impact Assessment by MARD/VNFOREST
VNFOREST & Multi-Stakeholder
Core Group
I 1.3.2 Submission of the Agreement by MARD MARD, DOFA, DOJ
J 1.3.3 Approval of Agreement for signing by Government Government of Viet Nam
F* 1.3.4 Signing of Agreement by parties
K* 1.3.5 Approval of Agreement for ratification by Government Government of Viet Nam
Outcome 1.4 Agreement ratified and published

16. ~ 15 ~
L* 1.4 Agreement formally ratified and published by Viet Nam and the EU Viet Nam & EU
Strategic Task 2: VPA management, monitoring and review mechanisms
2017 2018 2019 2020
Q1-2 Q3-4 Q1-2 Q3-4 Q1-2 Q3-4 Q1-2 Q3-4
Outcome 2.1 JPC established, supported and fulfilling its functions (period before ratification)
M 2.1.1 JPC established by MARD and EU Delegation (EU-DEL) > > > > > MARD/VNFOREST & EU-DEL
N 2.1.2 JIF prepared through multi-stakeholder process and adopted by JPC
VNFOREST, EU & Multi-
Stakeholder Core Group
O 2.1.5 Support bodies for JPC/JIC and stakeholder engagement mechanisms established
VNFOREST, EU-DEL & Multi-
Stakeholder Core Group
P 2.1.6 Rules of Procedure for JPC/JIC prepared and agreed by parties JPC
Q 2.1.7 Detailed VPA arbitration procedures prepared and agreed by parties JPC
Outcome 2.2 JIC established, supported and fulfilling its functions (period after ratification)
R 2.2.1 JIC established after ratification of Agreement > > > > > > > MARD/VNFOREST & EU-DEL
S 2.2.3 Reporting system and information to be published by JIC established > > > > > > JIC
T 2.2.4 VNTLAS legal documents and implementation guidelines reviewed by JIC JIC
U 2.2.5
TOR for Independent Evaluation and joint independent assessment of VNTLAS
endorsed by JIC, and funding secured (leading on to Actions 5.1.1 to 5.1.5 and
Actions 5.2.1 to 5.2.4)
JIC
V* 2.2.6 JIC decides/approves specific measures for VNTLAS JIC
Strategic Task 3: Development of VNTLAS legal documents, regulations and information
management systems
2017 2018 2019 2020
Q1-2 Q3-4 Q1-2 Q3-4 Q1-2 Q3-4 Q1-2 Q3-4
Outcome 3.1 VNTLAS investment and resource plan prepared
W 3.1 VNTLAS Investment and resource plan prepared VNFOREST/MARD
Outcome 3.2 Preparatory work for VNTLAS and FLEGT licensing completed
X 3.2a Forest law violations Information Management Information System VNFOREST, FPD & Tech. Panel
Y 3.2b Organisations Classification System (OCS) VNFOREST, FPD & Tech. Panel
Z 3.2c Timber supply chain control system and timber product dossier requirements VNFOREST, FPD & Tech. Panel
AA 3.2d Geographic risk categories for timber import controls VNFOREST, FPD & Tech. Panel

17. ~ 16 ~
AB 3.2e Species risk categories for timber import controls VNFOREST, FPD & Tech. Panel
AC 3.2f Additional documentary evidence for timber import controls VNFOREST, FPD & Tech. Panel
AD 3.2g Recognition by VNTLAS of voluntary and national certification schemes VNFOREST, FPD & Tech. Panel
AE 3.2h FLEGT Licensing procedures VNFOREST, CITES & Tech. Panel
Outcome 3.3 VNTLAS legal documents and regulations prepared and approved
AF 3.3.1 Drafting Board for VNTLAS legal documents and regulations established MARD/VNFOREST
AG 3.3.2 Draft VNTLAS legal documents and regulations completed Drafting Board
AH 3.3.3 Consultations on VNTLAS legal documents and regulations conducted
VNFOREST, Multi-Stakeholder Core
Group
AI 3.3.4 VNTLAS legal documents and regulations submitted to GOV for approval MARD/VNFOREST
AJ* 3.3.5 VNTLAS legal documents and regulations approved MARD/VNFOREST
Outcome 3.4 Information management systems for OCS and FLEGT licensing established
AK* 3.4.1 OCS database system designed and established FPD
AL 3.4.2 FLEGT Licensing database system designed and established CITES MA
Outcome 3.5 VNTLAS guidelines and systems are field-tested
AM* 3.5.1 Field-testing VNTLAS implementation conducted
VNFOREST, Multi-Stakeholder Core
Group
Strategic Task 4: Capacity building plans for verification agencies and private sector
(Organisations and Households)
2017 2018 2019 2020
Q1-2 Q3-4 Q1-2 Q3-4 Q1-2 Q3-4 Q1-2 Q3-4
Outcome 4.1 Capacity, information and training needs assessments conducted
AN 4.1.6 Capacity, information and training needs assessments VNFOREST, others…
Outcome 4.2 Verification and licensing entities have capacity to implement VNTLAS
AO 4.2.4 Training programs for sub-national verification agencies prepared and delivered > > > > > > > > VNFOREST, training organisations
Outcome 4.3 Organisations and Households are ready for VNTLAS implementation
AP 4.3.10-11 Information, training and coaching programs for private sector strengthened > > > > > > > > > > >
VNFOREST, Multi-Stakeholder Core
Group
2017 2018 2019 2020

18. ~ 17 ~
Strategic Task 5: Monitoring and Evaluation mechanisms for VPA implementation Q1-2 Q3-4 Q1-2 Q3-4 Q1-2 Q3-4 Q1-2 Q3-4
Outcome 5.1 Independent Evaluation and complaints mechanisms underway (Annex VI)
AQ 5.1.1/2
Procurement and selection of Independent Evaluator is ready (leading on from
Action 2.2.5, including launching of contracting procedure and follow-on actions
to be determined depending on the outcomes of the first assessment of
readiness of VNTLAS)
MARD/VNFOREST
AR 5.1.3 Inception Report by Independent Evaluator submitted to JIC Independent Evaluator, JIC
AS 5.1.4 Stakeholder comments and inputs on complaints mechanisms received
VNFOREST, Multi-Stakeholder Core
Group
AT* 5.1.5
Inception Report and complaints mechanisms and Independent Evaluation
methodology approved by JIC and publicized
JIC
Outcome 5.2 Independent Assessment of readiness of VNTLAS underway (Annex VII)
AU 5.2.1-2 Consultant selected and work plan for independent assessment approved by JIC JIC
AV* 5.2.3 Independent assessment of readiness of VNTLAS underway JIC, Assessment consultants
AW 5.2.4
Note: follow-up actions to be determined depending on the outcomes of the first
assessment of readiness of VNTLAS
Outcome 5.3 Provisions for public disclosure of information in place (Annex VIII)
AX 5.3.2 Stock-take of current situation of public disclosure of information conducted VNFOREST, others…
AY 5.3.3 Action plan for implementation of Annex VIII prepared > VNFOREST, others…
AZ 5.3.4 System of information to be published by JIC in place > > > > > > > JIC
BA 5.3.5 Information to be published by Viet Nam in place > > > > > > > Viet Nam
BB 5.3.6 Information to be published by the EU in place EU
Outcome 5.4 Mechanisms in place for VPA impact assessment and monitoring
BC 5.4.1
Development of complementary and coordinated approaches to (i)
independent/participatory forest governance monitoring and (ii) social
safeguards impact assessment
> > > > > > > > > >
VNFOREST, Multi-Stakeholder Core
Group
Strategic Task 6: Information and communications strategy and products
2017 2018 2019 2020
Q1-2 Q3-4 Q1-2 Q3-4 Q1-2 Q3-4 Q1-2 Q3-4

19. ~ 18 ~
Outcome 6.1
Information about the VPA and VNTLAS is effectively communicated jointly by
the parties
BD 6.1.4 Standard information materials on VPA/VNTLAS published
VNFOREST, Multi-Stakeholder Core
Group
BE 6.1.5 Coordinated information and communications strategy prepared and adopted
> > > > > > > > > > VNFOREST, Multi-Stakeholder Core
Group
BF 6.1.6 On-line repositories of VNTLAS regulations and operational manuals established
> > > > > > VNFOREST, Multi-Stakeholder Core
Group
Outcome 6.2
Information and communication programs for stakeholders conducted (see
Appendix 1)
Strategic Task 7: Stakeholder engagement, coordination and out-reach mechanisms
2017 2018 2019 2020
Q1-2 Q3-4 Q1-2 Q3-4 Q1-2 Q3-4 Q1-2 Q3-4
Outcome 7.1 Stakeholder engagement/coordination mechanisms established and supported
BG 7.1 Multi-stakeholder Implementation Core Group established and supported
> > > > > > > > > > > > > VNFOREST, Multi-Stakeholder Core
Group
Outcome 7.2 FLEGT Forum events on VPA-FLEGT and VNTLAS initiated
BH 7.2 Series of FLEGT Forum events initiated
> > > > > > > > > > VNFOREST, Multi-Stakeholder Core
Group
Outcome 7.3 Out-reach with provincial government leaders and authorities (see Appendix 1)
Outcome 7.4 Out-reach with local communities and CSOs (see Appendix 1)
Outcome 7.5 Out-reach with non-domestic private sector actors (see Appendix 1)
Strategic Task 8: VPA-FLEGT connected and supporting actions
2017 2018 2019 2020
Q1-2 Q3-4 Q1-2 Q3-4 Q1-2 Q3-4 Q1-2 Q3-4
Outcome 8.1 Development of related industry standards on timber legality (see Appendix 1)
Outcome 8.2 VPA-FLEGT related research and studies (see Appendix 1)
Outcome 8.3 Technical developments related to VNTLAS implementation (see Appendix 1)
Outcome 8.4 Regional and cross-border initiatives related to VPA-FLEGT (see Appendix 1)

20. ~ 19 ~
This section describes the eight Strategic Tasks and Outcome Areas. For each task a
summary of the current situation in mid-2017 is given as a point of departure for a
description of the strategy for implementing the task and the priority actions. Cross-
reference is made to the milestones in Figure 2.1 and Table 2.1 and actions in the JIF
Matrix (Appendix 1). Cross-reference is also made to relevant corresponding Articles of
the Agreement and sections of Annexes to the Agreement in squared-brackets [Ref. …].
3.1 Strategic Task ❶ VPA ratification process
This Strategic Task is divided into four outcome areas:
1.1 VPA document package completed
1.2 EU ratification procedure completed
1.3 Viet Nam ratification procedure completed
1.4 Agreement formally ratified and published
Current situation. The starting point for the JIF is the initialling of the Agreement which
took place in May 2017 (Milestone A). The parties have also agreed on a set of Interim
Governance Arrangements to guide the initial implementation process.
Priority Actions. This Strategic Task sets out the steps required for ratification of the
Agreement. The first action is legal scrubbing of the VPA document package (Milestone
B), which is a critical milestone which needs to be completed as a basis for the EU
ratification procedure (Milestones C-G), the Viet Nam ratification procedure (Milestones
H-K), and formal ratification and publication of the Agreement by both parties
(Milestone L).
Consultations will be undertaken at various stages in this process. The EU will conduct
inter-service consultations on the Agreement as part of its ratification procedure
(Milestone C). In Viet Nam, consultations will be undertaken as part of the VPA Impact
Assessment (Milestone H), which needs to be completed prior to and as part of the
submission of the VPA to the Government for approval (Milestone I). Consultations will
also be undertaken by the Government in the approval procedure (Milestone J).
The Government approval of the Agreement for ratification (Milestone K) is a critical
milestone which needs to be realized before commencing preparation of the
3. Description of Strategic Tasks and Outcome Areas

21. ~ 20 ~
VPA/VNTLAS legal documents and regulations under Strategic Task 3. This is because
the Government approval will include instructions on the form of legislative documents
required. Formal ratification of the Agreement (Milestone L) is also a critical milestone
that needs to be achieved before establishment of the JIC.
3.2 Strategic Task ❷ VPA management, monitoring and review
mechanisms
This Strategic Task is divided into two outcome areas:
2.1 JPC established, supported and fulfilling its functions (period before ratification)
2.2 JIC established, supported and fulfilling its functions (period after ratification)
Current situation. The organisational arrangements in the VPA negotiation phase
included the Technical Working Group (TWG) which conducted the bi-lateral
negotiation sessions, supported by the Joint Expert Meeting (JEM) with representatives
from both parties. On the Viet Nam side, technical inputs were made by the LD and TLAS
Working Groups, with support and coordination by the FLEGT Standing Office under
VNFOREST. These organisational arrangements will be adapted and augmented to meet
the requirements for VPA management and support in the implementation phase.
Priority Actions. The actions under this Strategic Task relate to establishment of the JPC
(Milestone M) and priority actions of the JPC in the period before ratification of the
Agreement (Milestones N-Q); and establishment of the JIC (Milestone R) and priority
actions of the JIC in the period following ratification (Milestones S-V).
The priority actions in the JPC period and JIC period respectively are defined according
to articles of agreement in the VPA text and annexes.
3.2.1 Organisational arrangements
One first priority action will be to establish the organisational arrangements for the
implementation phase (Milestone O), including JPC/JIC support bodies [Ref. Annex
IX/Section 2e] and stakeholder engagement and coordination mechanisms [Ref. Article
15 of the Agreement]. The proposed arrangements are shown in Figure 3.1.
Parties to the JPC/JIC
The focal points for implementation of the Agreement in the JPC period will be MARD on
behalf of Viet Nam and the EU Delegation in Hanoi on behalf of the EU. The JPC will be

22. ~ 21 ~
co-chaired by senior officials from MARD and the EU Delegation, and the schedule for
JPC meetings in the transition period will be agreed by the parties.
The JIC will be established within three months of entry into force of the Agreement
[Ref. Article 18 of the Agreement and Annex IX]. Each Party will designate
representatives to the JIC and the JIC will be co-chaired by senior officials designated by
each Party. The JIC will meet at least twice a year in the first two years and once per
year in following years, on a date and with an agenda which are agreed in advance by
the parties. Additional meetings may be convened at the request of either Party.
Overall coordination and supervision within the Government of Viet Nam will be
achieved through inter-ministerial representation on the JIC, together with inter-
ministerial meetings serving the functions of a steering committee.
VNFOREST and FLEGT Standing Office
On behalf of Viet Nam, the lead technical agency guiding the implementation process
and supporting the JPC/JIC is VNFOREST. The FLEGT Standing Office, under the
Department of Science, Technology and International Cooperation (DOSTIC), has been
assigned to maintain its role in supporting the parties through the JPC/JIC, as well as
coordinating the agreed actions in the JIF and Annual Work Plans agreed by the JPC/JIC.
Figure 3.1 Organisational arrangements
Ministry of
Agriculture & Rural
Development
EU Delegation
in Viet Nam
JPC / JIC
VNFOREST
National Assembly
Government
Other Ministries
European Council
European Commission
DG Environment etc.
Technical
Review Panel
VPA-FLEGT
Multi-stakeholder
Implementation
Core GroupLegislation
Drafting Board
Verification
& licensing
agencies
FLEGT
Standing
Office
Joint Expert
Meeting

23. ~ 22 ~
Joint Expert Meeting
In order to support the JPC/JIC on technical matters relating to VPA implementation, a
Joint Expert Meeting (JEM) will be convened with representatives from both parties.
The JEM will be led by the Vice Director General of VNFOREST on behalf of Viet Nam and
by the Head of Development Coopration of the EU Delegation on behalf of the EU. The
composition of the JEM may vary according to requirements, and the parties will notify
each other of the members in advance of each meeting of the JEM
The primary function of the JEM is to support the JPC/JIC by: (i) tracking and reviewing
implementation progress, in particular the development and introduction of VNTLAS,
the FLEGT Licensing Scheme and other supporting mechanisms for VPA
implementation; (ii) preparing for meetings of the JPC/JIC and identifying issues that
need to be discussed by the JPC/JIC; and (iii) making recommendations on technical
matters and proposing solutions to any difficulties or delays in implementation. The
modus operandi of the JEM will be through meetings held in advance of JPC/JIC
meetings, as well as through interim meetings, video conferences and the exchange of
documents as required. Technical sub-groups will be created and supervised by the
JEM to deal with specific technical issues.
Multi-stakeholder Implementation Core Group
Viet Nam and the EU recognize that stakeholders have a crucial role to play in
implementation of the Agreement and that it is essential that effective mechanisms for
their contribution to the enforcement of VNTLAS are established. Viet Nam will hold
regular consultations with stakeholders on VPA implementation and will promote
appropriate strategies and modalities for this [Ref. Article 15 of the Agreement].
The focus for stakeholder engagement and coordination will be a Multi-Stakeholder
Implementation Core Group, including representatives from the private sector,
associations, non-governmental organisations, research institutes, FLEGT project
holders, and verification agencies as active members, and development partners in
observer status. As part of its functions, the Core Group will provide advice and
feedback on the preparation and introduction of VNTLAS, and may propose issues for
consideration by the JPC/JIC.
The composition, mandate and functions of the Multi-Stakeholder Implementation Core
Group are described in detail under Strategic Task 7.

24. ~ 23 ~
Legislation Drafting Board
According to Government regulations and procedures for the preparation of legal
documents, a Legislation Drafting Board(s) will be established to prepare the
VPA/VNTLAS legal documents and regulations as described under Strategic Task 3. The
Drafting Board(s) will be established by MARD/VNFOREST as the proposing agency.
The composition and tasks of the Drafting Board(s) will be determined according to
Government instructions on the form of legislative documents required for the
VPA/VNTLAS.
Technical Review Panel
To support the development of the VNTLAS, a Technical Review Panel may be convened
by VNFOREST to help guide, coordinate and review technical inputs to the process (e.g.
preparation of Terms of Reference and reviewing background and preparatory studies
and reports etc.). The Technical Review Panel will be convened on an ad hoc basis,
including representatives of relevant departments of MARD/VNFOREST, other
ministries, specialists and development partners as required.
3.2.2 Priority actions and milestones in the JPC period and JIC period
In addition to establishing the organisational arrangements and support bodies for the
JPC/JIC (above), several priority actions are identified in the text and annexes to the
Agreement that will need to be fulfilled by the JPC and JIC (Figure 2.1).
It should be noted that these actions and milestones do not cover all tasks of the JPC or
JIC, and the functions of the JIC in particular are set out in detail in Annex IX.
The priority actions/milestones in the JPC period are as follows:
 Milestone P: Preparation and agreement of Rules of Procedure for the JPC/JIC [Ref.
Article 18 & Annex VIII/Section 4.4].
 Milestone Q: Preparation of detailed arbitration procedures [Ref. Article 22 of the
Agreement]. Article 22 sets out principles for mediation and arbitration for the
settlement of disputes. In the JPC period, detailed arbitration procedures will be
drafted for agreement by the JIC after entry-into-force of the Agreement.
The actions/milestones in the JIC period are as follows:
 Milestone S: System of regular reporting and information to be published by JIC
established [Ref. Annex IX/Section 1f & Annex VIII/Section 4]. This system includes
Annual Reports, minutes of meetings, summaries of decisions of JIC and other
documents and information to be publicised by the JIC.

25. ~ 24 ~
 Milestone T: VNTLAS legal documents and regulations reviewed by JIC [Ref. Annex
IX/Section 1j]. Prior to submission of the VNTLAS legal documents and regulations
to the Government for approval, the JIC will review and comment on the draft
documents to identify any adjustments required.
 Milestone U: Terms of Reference and selection of consultants for (a) Independent
Evaluation and (b) independent assessment of readiness of VNTLAS endorsed by JIC
as described under Strategic Task 5 [Ref. Annex VI, Annex VII & Annex IX/Section 3].
 Milestone V: Specific measures related to VNTLAS approved/decided by JIC [Ref.
Annex V & Annex IX/Section 1h & 1i]. These measures include amongst others: (i)
approving the methodology for recognition of voluntary certification and national
certification schemes meeting requirements of VNTLAS; and (ii) deciding on the list
of high risk species for the control of timber imports, to review the species lists on a
periodic basis, and to supplement the species lists as proposed by either Party.
3.3 Strategic Task ❸ Development of VNTLAS legal documents,
regulations and information management systems
This Strategic Task is divided into five outcome areas:
3.1 VNTLAS investment and resource plan prepared
3.2 Preparatory work for VNTLAS and FLEGT licensing completed
3.3 VNTLAS legal documents and regulations prepared and approved
3.4 Information management systems for OCS and FLEGT licensing established
3.5 VNTLAS guidelines and systems are field-tested
Current situation. The starting point for this Strategic Task is the agreed VPA annexes
that set out the VNTLAS, including Annex II Timber Legality Definition (LD), Annex IV
FLEGT Licensing Scheme, Annex V VNTLAS and the technical appendices to these
annexes. These documents describe the key contents of the VNTLAS and FLEGT
Licensing Scheme and how, in principle, these systems will operate in practice.
The LD and VNTLAS are based on the existing laws, legislation and regulations of Viet
Nam. In addition, several commitments have been made by Viet Nam to introduce new
legislation to implement the VPA and VNTLAS. These legislative commitments include:
 Timber import controls – including due diligence and self-declaration
responsibilities and obligations of importers; risk-based control of timber imports
including species risk and country risk categories; and potential recognition by
VNTLAS of voluntary certification and national certification schemes etc.

26. ~ 25 ~
 Organisations Classification System (OCS) – including registration and self-
assessment responsibilities of organisations; the OCS risk appraisal and
classification by FPD or by other agencies assigned by the government; and the
OCS procedures and management information systems etc.
 Verification for export – including requirements for the timber product dossier for
export and verification procedures based on the OCS risk categories, and
management information systems for verification and supply chain control.
 FLEGT Licensing Scheme for exports to the EU – including the licensing application
and approval procedures, the operation of paper-based and on-line licensing
systems, and associated management information systems etc.
In the period 2016 to 2017, several preparatory studies have been undertaken to
provide inputs to the development of the VNTLAS legal documents, regulations and
management information systems (JIF Matrix: Action area 3.1). These include
preparatory work on the forest violations database, species risk categories for timber
import controls, recognition of voluntary/national certification schemes, and the OCS.
Priority Actions. This Strategic Task represents the critical line-of-action in the JIF. The
overall sequence of actions that will be required to prepare and promulgate the VNTLAS
legal documents and regulations, and to design, establish and operationalize the
management information systems for verification and licensing are as follows.
In 2017 – the Impact Assessment conducted by MARD (Milestone H) will include an
assessment of the legislative and administrative impacts and requirements for the VPA.
Work will also commence on preparing an overall Investment and Resource Plan for
VNTLAS development and capacity building (Milestone W). It is also expected that the
VPA will be approved by the Government in the first-half of 2018, together with
instructions for the preparation of the legal documents (Milestone K).
In 2018 – priority will be given to preparatory work for development of the elements of
VNTLAS and FLEGT licensing. The specific areas of work include:
Milestone X Forest law violations information management system
Milestone Y Organisations Classification System (OCS)
Milestone Z Timber supply chain control system and timber product dossier requirements
Milestone AA Geographic risk categories for timber import controls
Milestone AB Species risk categories for timber import controls
Milestone AC Additional documentary evidence for timber import controls
Milestone AD Recognition by VNTLAS of voluntary and national certification schemes
Milestone AE FLEGT Licensing procedures

27. ~ 26 ~
In 2019, priority will be given to the preparation and promulgating the VNTLAS legal
documents and regulations. This will include establishing a Drafting Board (Milestone
AF) and the process of drafting the legal documents and regulations will commence,
including inter-ministerial and stakeholder consultations (Milestones AG & AH). To
support the drafting process, further TA inputs will be required, including field-testing
the OCS with enterprises to inform the regulations. It is anticipated that this process will
take up to 12 months (depending on the type of legislative documents required) and it
is anticipated the VNTLAS legal documents and regulations will be submitted and
approved before the end of 2019 (Milestones AI & AJ). As part of this process, Viet Nam
will also develop provisions on complaints mechanisms under the VNTLAS, in line with
the Law on Complaints, as well as consider the need to develop specific guidelines.
In the period 2019-2020 – based on the approved VNTLAS legal documents and
regulations – detailed work will begin to design and establish the information
management systems for VNTLAS verification and the OCS (Milestone AK) and FLEGT
licensing (Milestone AL). These actions will include the preparation of operational
manuals and guidelines for the verification agencies and private sector.
In the period 2019-2020 – in parallel with establishment of the verification, OCS and
FLEGT licensing systems, and training for sub-national verification agencies, it is
intended that field-testing the systems will take place in several provinces (Milestone
AM). The purpose of field-testing will be to assess the operation of the systems, prior to
beginning the independent assessment of readiness of VNTLAS (Milestone AV).
The VNTLAS legal documents, regulations and systems development will provide the
foundation for capacity building plans for verification agencies and the private sector
(Strategic Task 4); as well as related actions under Strategic Task 6 (communications
strategy and information products) and Strategic Task 7 (stakeholder engagement,
coordination and outreach mechanisms). The linkages between priority actions under
these four Strategic Tasks are illustrated in the flow-chart in Figure 3.2.

28. ~ 27 ~
Figure 3.2 Linkages between some priority actions under Strategic Tasks 3, 4, 6 and 7
Starting point: agreed
VPA document package
Approved VNTLAS legal
documents and
regulations
Field-testing VNTLAS
regulations, guidelines
and systems
Strategic Task 3
VNTLAS legal documents,
regulations and systems
development
Standard VPA/VNTLAS
information materials
Strategic Task 7
Stakeholder engagement,
coordination and out-reach
mechanisms
Strategic Task 6
Communications
strategy and
information products
Strategic Task 4
Capacity building for
verification agencies and
private sector
On-line information and
services (including
repositories of VNTLAS
legal documents,
regulations & guidelines)
Coordinated information
and communications
strategy
Information, coaching
and advisory services for
the private sector
Training program for
sub-national verification
agencies
Capacity and training
needs assessments
conducted
Out-reach with
provincial government
leaders and authorities
Multi-stakeholder
Implementation Core
Group
Out-reach with local
communities and CSOs
Out-reach with non-
domestic private sector
VNTLAS information
management systems
established
Operational manuals
and guidelines prepared

29. ~ 28 ~
3.4 Strategic Task ❹ Capacity building plans for verification agencies and
private sector (Organisations and Households)
This Strategic Task is divided into three outcome areas:
4.1 Capacity/training needs assessments conducted
4.2 Verification and licensing entities have capacity to implement VNTLAS
4.3 Organisations and Households are ready for VNTLAS implementation
Current situation. Several capacity, training and information needs assessments
related to VPA-FLEGT have been conducted in recent years or are on-going (JIF Matrix:
Action area 4.1). These assessments have been conducted by the FLEGT projects and the
target groups have included SMEs, intermediary organisations, CSOs, media agencies,
and timber processors in industry villages. Reports on these assessments are available
and provide a useful starting point for further actions.
While some provincial departments (provincial FPD and customs etc.) have been
involved in various consultation workshops and meetings during the VPA negotiation
phase (JIF Matrix: Action area 4.1), so far there have been limited capacity building
activities for the sub-national verification agencies. This will be one of the highest
priorities in the coming period to roll-out the VNTLAS at sub-national levels.
A diversity of information, training and capacity building activities for SMEs have been
conducted in recent years, or are on-going, on topics related to VPA-FLEGT, EUTR,
timber legality, risk mitigation and CoC systems etc. (JIF Matrix: Action area 4.3). In
general, these have been pilot activities that have been conducted on a small-scale and
have only reached a limited number of SMEs and households, and so far there has been
limited information about VNTLAS made available to the private sector.
Strategy and Priority Actions. As a starting point, it is anticipated that more
comprehensive capacity and training needs assessments will need to be conducted for
both verification agencies and for the private sector (Milestone AN). The assessments
will be conducted in parallel with developing the VNTLAS legal documents and
regulations; and will use the legal documents and regulations as the foundation for
assessing appropriate strategies, target groups, contents, service providers, and
investment and resource requirements (see Figure 3.2 above).
3.4.1 Training program for sub-national verification agencies
This action includes the preparation, coordination and delivery of a nationwide training
program on VNTLAS for sub-national verification agencies, including the provincial and
district FPD, customs authorities, and other relevant provincial and district agencies
(Milestone AO).

30. ~ 29 ~
Key questions that will be addressed by the independent assessment of readiness of
VNTLAS include whether the verification and licensing agencies are adequately
prepared and have sufficient capacity for VNTLAS implementation [Ref. Annex VII].
This will be a substantial task in the implementation of VNTLAS (i.e. to reach some
12,000 forest rangers nationwide as well as local customs officers etc.), for which
considerable resources will be required. Consideration will be given to piloting the
training program with verification agencies in a number of provinces before rolling-out
nationwide. A comprehensive investment plan for this training program will be
prepared as part of the capacity needs assessment (above).
The strategy for conducting this nationwide program may include several elements:
 Training-of-trainers for staff of Forest Administration Training Colleges, Forestry
Colleges, and for key officials from provincial FPD responsible for VNTLAS.
 Incorporating modules on the VPA, VNTLAS and FLEGT licensing in the regular
(annual) re-fresher training courses for in-service FPD staff. These re-fresher
training courses are provided by the Forest Administration Training Colleges.
 In-depth training courses for key officials from the provincial FPD who are
specifically in charge of VNTLAS verification and OCS management etc., as well as
for key officials from the provincial customs and other relevant departments.
 Regional information and sensitisation workshops for provincial government
leaders and local government authorities to formally introduce the VPA and
VNTLAS legal documents and regulations (JIF Matrix: Action 7.3.1).
 Local sensitisation and training courses for forest rangers and district and
commune authorities organised by the provincial DARD/FPD.
3.4.2 Information, advisory and coaching services for the private sector
This action includes strengthening the content and delivery of effective and coordinated
information, advisory and coaching services on the VPA and VNTLAS for Organisations
and Households (Milestone AN).
Key questions that will be addressed by the independent assessment of readiness of
VNTLAS are whether Organisations and Households along the supply chain are
adequately informed about and are ready for VNTLAS implementation [Ref. Annex VII].

31. ~ 30 ~
As indicated above, a range of support activities for enterprises and households have
been carried-out in recent years by the FLEGT projects and industry associations, but
these have mostly been pilot activities on a small-scale (JIF Matrix: Action area 4.3).
Moving forwards, several important strategic questions will need to be addressed in
order to strengthen the delivery of these services. These questions include:
- How to ensure consistency and accuracy in the contents of the information on
VNTLAS provided to the private sector?
- What are the appropriate channels of communication and intermediary
organisations to reach different private sector target groups?
- Should these channels of communication be through public and/or private sector
intermediaries and service suppliers?
- And how to effectively pilot and scale-up these initiatives?
It is intended that one of the actions of the Multi-Stakeholder Implementation Core
Group will be to develop a broad strategy for taking this work forwards (JIF Matrix:
Action 4.3.10). In particular, this will focus on ensuring accuracy and consistency in the
information provided to the private sector, based on the VPA annexes and approved
VNTLAS legal documents and regulations. It is recognized that there is a danger of
inconsistent information being given out to the private sector through scattered
information and training initiatives, which can potentially cause confusion and an
adverse response amongst the private sector. Therefore, coordination around the
accuracy and consistency of information will be an essential foundation of the strategy.
A multi-pronged and differentiated strategy will be required to provide appropriate and
effective information and support services for Organisations and Households. The
forestry and timber industry is characterized by the diversity and large number of
private sector actors involved, including over 4,800 timber trading and processing
enterprises, around 340 timber processing industry villages, tens-of-thousands of
household timber processors, and hundreds-of-thousands of household timber growers.
The private sector may be categorized into seven distinct target groups:
1) Vietnamese timber trading and processing enterprises
2) Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) enterprises operating in Viet Nam
3) Foreign supplier and buyer companies
4) Timber processing industry villages (micro-enterprise clusters)
5) Timber plantation and production companies
6) Household timber processors and micro-enterprises
7) Household timber growers.

32. ~ 31 ~
Table 3.1 provides a provisional framework for the out-reach channels that may be
most appropriate for each of these target groups, and which may be used as a starting
point for developing a broad strategy for private sector engagement:
 Timber industry association services. Strengthening the capacity of the industry
associations to provide services to their members will be a primary channel of
communication for Vietnamese trading and processing enterprises and their
suppliers. This is connected to the Due Diligence Systems being developed by the
industry associations (JIF Matrix: Action area 8.2). The timber industry associations
are not, however, representative of some segments of the private sector, such as FDI
companies operating Viet Nam and the large number of micro-enterprises, for which
other out-reach channels will also need to be developed.
Table 3.1 Potential out-reach channels for private sector target groups
Outreach Channels
Private sector target groups
Vietnamese
timber
processing
& trading
enterprises
FDI
enterprises
operating
in Vietnam
Foreign
suppliers
& buyers
Timber
processing
villages &
enterprise
clusters
Forest
plantation
and
production
companies
Household
timber
processors
and micro-
enterprises
Household
timber
growers
Timber industry association
services
X X X
Enterprise-to-supplier
linkages
X X X
Private sector advisory
services
X X
Foreign chambers of
commerce
X
Industry trade fairs and
exhibitions
X X X
Provincial industry & forestry
extension services
X X X X
Special information and
coaching programs
X X X
On-line information and
advisory services
X X X X X X X
 Enterprise-to-supplier linkages. Supporting enterprise-to-supplier linkages will
be one of the most effective out-reach channels, whereby larger-scale enterprises
and exporters channel information and advice to their domestic suppliers as part
of their CoC systems in order to meet the VNTLAS requirements. This is also an
important part of the strategy of VNFOREST to modernize the forestry sector by

33. ~ 32 ~
promoting greater connectivity across supply chains. Further work is required,
however, to determine how such private sector linkages can be effectively
promoted and supported.
 Private sector advisory services. This includes domestic or foreign companies or
organisations that provide advisory and legal services to enterprises, often on a
fee-paying basis. Currently, in the Viet Nam context there are many ‘individuals’
who operate in the system who provide such services, but there very few
established consulting service companies. These types of services will obviously
be most appropriate for larger domestic enterprises and FDI companies, and
expansion will depend on their willingness to pay for such services in future.
 Foreign chambers of commerce. Information and awareness raising events about
the VPA/VNTLAS for FDI companies through foreign Chambers of Commerce in
Viet Nam, or other similar channels, will be important to reach this important
FDI segment of the timber industry (JIF Matrix: Action 7.4.1).
 Industry trade fairs and exhibitions. This channel of communication will be
effective in reaching out to domestic and FDI enterprises in Viet Nam, as well as
to foreign timber suppliers and purchasers (JIF Matrix: Action 7.4.2).
 Provincial industry and forestry extension services. Working through local
extension services and programs will be important to reach the large number of
household timber growers and processors and micro-enterprises. This may be
through the provincial Industry Extension Centres (under the Department of
Industry and Trade), the Agriculture-Forestry Extension Centres (under the
Department of Agriculture and Rural Development), or through local tree
growers associations, CSOs and other service providers.
 Special information and coaching programs. Special out-reach programs may be
needed to inform and engage particular (i.e. difficult to reach) target groups. For
instance, special programs may be the most effective means of engaging with
processing households and enterprises in the Timber Industry Villages.
 On-line information and services. The provision of user-friendly online
information will be relevant to all target groups (see Strategic Task 6).
3.5 Strategic Task ❺ Monitoring and evaluation mechanisms for VPA
implementation
This Strategic Task is divided into four outcome areas:

34. ~ 33 ~
5.1 Independent Evaluation and complaints mechanisms underway (Annex VI)
5.2 Independent assessment of readiness of VNTLAS underway (Annex VII)
5.3 Provisions for public disclosure of information fully in place (Annex VIII)
5.4 Mechanisms are in place for VPA impact assessment and monitoring
3.5.1 Annex VI Independent Evaluation
This action will commence in the JIC period after ratification of the Agreement (2019
onwards). The milestones include: preparation of the TORs for the Independent
Evaluation by the JIC and securing of the funding required (Milestone U); procurement
and selection of the Independent Evaluator by Viet Nam (Milestone AQ); submission of
the Inception Report by the Independent Evaluator, including work plan and complaints
mechanisms (Milestone AR); stakeholder inputs to the proposed complaints
mechanisms (Milestone AS); and approval of the work plan and complaints mechanisms
by the JIC (Milestone AT).
Milestone U (TOR and securing of funding) should be achieved prior to the independent
assessment of readiness of VNTLAS, which will include an assessment of the readiness
of the Independent Evaluation [Ref. Annex VII/Section 5]. The other milestones will be
achieved depending on the outcome of the first assessment and prior to the start of
FLEGT Licensing.
3.5.2 Annex VII Independent assessment of readiness of VNTLAS
It is intended that preparatory work on this action will commence in the JIC period
(2019 onwards). The milestones include: preparation of the Terms of Reference and
selection of consultants for the independent assessment (Milestone AU); and
commencement of the independent assessment process (Milestones AV & AW).
As indicated in Section 1.1 above, the assessment will begin when the verification and
licensing systems and other elements of the VPA are fully established and operational.
The independent assessment may also be conducted in several stages, to allow for
weaknesses and actions to be identified, addressed and then reassessed.
3.5.3 Annex VIII Public disclosure of information
This annex covers three categories of information for public disclosure: information to
be published by Viet Nam; information to be published by the EU; and information to be
published by the JIC [Ref. Annex VIII/Sections 2, 3 & 4]. Section 5 of Annex VIII covers
mechanisms and means to access information. Section 6 indicates that focal points will
be appointed and specific guidelines will be developed for implementation.

35. ~ 34 ~
Information to be publicized by Viet Nam
Under Section 2 of Annex VIII, the information to be publicized by Viet Nam includes
nine categories of information (Table 3.2). Under each of these categories, several items
of information are listed that are currently collected, stored and made available by
different government ministries and other agencies. Table 3.2 gives an indicative list of
these responsible agencies. It should be noted that these agencies may manage
information on certain items of information under each category, not all information.
Table 3.2 Indicative list of information disclosure agencies
Categories of information to be
publicized by Viet Nam
Indicative list of agencies currently
responsible for information disclosure
Legal information [Ref. Annex VIII /
Section 2.1]
 Official Gazette
 MARD / VNFOREST
 Other relevant Ministries.
Information of forest land use planning
and forest land allocation [Section 2.2]
 VNFOREST / FPD
 Provincial DARD / FPD
 MONRE Land Information System
 District and commune authorities
 FORMIS
Information on forest management
[Section 2.3]
 MARD / VNFOREST / FPD
 DARD / FPD
 FORMIS
 FIPI / FSIV
Information on domestic timber
production [Section 2.4]
 VNFOREST
 FIPI / FSIV
 FORMIS
Information on forest violations and
timber trade violations [Section 2.5]
 FPD (central and provincial levels)
 FORMIS
Information on processing [Section 2.6]  FPD (central and provincial levels)
 Timber Industry Associations
 FORMIS
Information on investment and revenues
[Section 2.7]
 General Statistic Office
 MARD / VNFOREST
 Province Peoples Committees
 FORMIS
Information on trade [Section 2.8]  General Department of Customs
 Ministry of Trade and Industry
 VNFOREST
information on the VNTLAS [Section 2.9]  VNFOREST

36. ~ 35 ~
Information to be published by the JIC
Under Section 4 of Annex VIII, the information to be published through the regular
reporting system of the JIC includes five categories:
- Minutes of meetings of the JIC and summaries of decisions [Ref. Section 4.1]
- Annual Reports produced by the JIC [Section 4.2]
- Information on the Independent Evaluation [Section 4.3]
- Rules of Procedure guiding the JIC [Section 4.4]
- Overview of activities undertaken to implement the Agreement [Section 4.5].
Additionally, the JPC/JIC will be responsible for joint communication to external parties
on an occasional basis on matters relating to VPA implementation.
Preparatory work for implementation of this Annex VIII will commence in the JPC
period, involving the following steps:
 Milestone AX: Stock-take of the current situation of public disclosure of
information. This stock-take will include an analysis of: (i) the detailed content of
the information to be published by Vietnam, by the EU and by the JIC
respectively, including an assessment of which information is currently
publically accessible and gaps in publically accessible information; (ii) the
information sources and information providers; (iii) the mechanisms for public
disclosure for each category of information; and (iv) the criteria for the
information to be useful (e.g. with respect to level of detail, format, periodicity,
accessibility etc.).
 Milestone AY: Based the above stock-take of the current situation, an action-plan
will be prepared including the following elements: (i) steps to address identified
gaps in the required publically accessible information; (ii) the strategy and
mechanisms for public disclosure; (iii) user-guidelines on how to access the
information; and (iv) how to monitor fulfilment of the information disclosure by
the responsible agencies.
It is intended that the mechanisms for public disclosure of information by Viet Nam, by
the EU and by the JIC respectively will be fully in place prior to commencement of the
independent assessment of the readiness of VNTLAS (Milestones AZ, BA and BB).
3.5.4 VPA impact assessment and monitoring
Current Situation. The Agreement includes specific clauses on monitoring and impact
assessment. Article 16 on Social Safeguards states that “in order to minimize possible

37. ~ 36 ~
adverse effects of the Agreement, the parties will assess the impacts on ethnic
minorities and local communities concerned and on their way of life, as well as on
households and the timber industry”. Related to this, one of the functions of the JIC is to
assess the social, economic and environmental impacts of the implementation of the
Agreement and decide on appropriate measures to mitigate any potential negative
impacts [Ref. Annex IX/Section 2c]. Article 15 of the Agreement also indicates that “Viet
Nam will ensure that a mechanism is in place to monitor implementation, made up of
representatives of relevant Government agencies and other relevant stakeholders”.
During the VPA negotiation phase, a number of independent monitoring and impact
assessment actions have been carried out by the VNGO FLEGT Network and other
stakeholders (JIF Matrix: Actions 8.1.1 to 8.1.4). Currently, several new FLEGT projects
are starting or are in preparation which will also focus on VPA-FLEGT related
monitoring and impact assessment (JIF Matrix: Actions 8.1.5 to 8.1.8). Forest
governance monitoring has been conducted by the UN REDD Program, and forest
monitoring functions and specifications are also included in the FORMIS.
Additional monitoring mechanisms will include the Independent Market Monitor (IMM)
that is commissioned by the EU and implemented by the International Tropical Timber
Organisation (ITTO). The IMM has the objective to collect, analyse, report and
disseminate information on acceptance and trends of FLEGT-licensed timber on the EU
market, as well as to support the implementation the VPAs by improving the quality of
timber trade statistics and effectiveness of timber market development programs. This
will include country specific information and analysis for Viet Nam.
Priority Actions. The milestone for this area of action relates to the development of
coordinated and complementary approaches to (i) independent/participatory forest
governance monitoring and (ii) social safeguards impact assessment (Milestone BC). It
is intended that this action will be convened through the Multi-Stakeholder
Implementation Core Group and will commence in 2018 onwards. For the assessment of
the market impacts of the VPA, the focus of the IMM will be on establishing the required
baseline, including data collection and analysis.
3.6 Strategic Task ❻ Information and communications strategy and
products
This Strategic Task is divided into two outcome areas:
6.1 Information on the VPA and VNTLAS is effectively communicated jointly by the parties
6.2 Information and communication programs for different stakeholder groups conducted

38. ~ 37 ~
Current situation. In the VPA negotiation phase, many information and communication
activities have been carried out by VNFOREST and by the FLEGT projects and other
stakeholders. These activities have included a wide range of information products and
communication programs with the private sector, local communities and other
stakeholder groups. Several Vietnam-based websites carrying information on VPA-
FLEGT have been established. Productive linkages have also been advanced with media
agencies to help ensure that they convey timely and accurate information about the VPA
process and contents. One concern that has been raised in the past relates to the
consistency and accuracy of the information conveyed through these various channels
(i.e. on a range of issues from the use of terminology, to a shared understanding of the
intended outcomes and benefits of the VPA in the future).
Strategy and Priority Actions. Information and communication on the VPA and
VNTLAS will continue to be critically important in the implementation phase. To this
end, several priority actions and milestones have been identified (see Figure 2.1).
 Milestone BD: The first stage will be to undertake a comprehensive stakeholder
information needs assessment, based on which an Information and
Communications Strategy will be prepared. The information needs assessment
and strategy will cover all relevant target audience groups both domestically in
Viet Nam and internationally. The strategy will be divided into two stages: the
contents of the first stage will be based on the final VPA document package, while
the contents of the second stage will be based on the approved VNTLAS legal
documents and regulations. This action will commence in 2017 and will be
coordinated through the Multi-Stakeholder Implementation Core Group.
Milestone BE: Based on the final VPA document package (Milestone B), a set of
standard information materials on the VPA and VNTLAS will be prepared for
dissemination by VNFOREST and the EU. The purpose of the standard
information materials will be to provide a clear explanation and understanding
of the contents of the VPA and VNTLAS in a format that is suited to the needs of
target audience groups both domestically in Viet Nam and internationally and
they will be produced in Vietnamese and English language versions. It is
intended that inputs to this action will be made through the Multi-Stakeholder
Implementation Core Group.
As indicated in Figure 3.2 above, the Information and Communications Strategy will feed
into several other elements of the JIF, including: information, coaching and advisory
services for the private sector (under Strategic Task 4); out-reach with provincial
government leaders and authorities, local communities, and non-domestic private
sector (under Strategic Task 7); and on-line information and services.

39. ~ 38 ~
On-line information and services
Several Vietnam-based websites have been established which provide information on
VPA-FLEGT for different target groups, including the VNFOREST website, Timber
Industry Association websites, and websites of several VNGOs and FLEGT projects (JIF
Matrix: Action area 6.4). In addition, information on the Vietnam VPA is posted by
several other international organisations (such as the EU FLEGT Facility website
managed by EFI). In the future, attention will need to be given to the appropriate
locations of on-line repositories of the VNTLAS legal documents, regulations and
operational manuals etc. for different target groups (Milestone BF).
3.7 Strategic Task ❼ Stakeholder engagement, coordination and out-
reach mechanisms
This Strategic Task is divided into five outcome areas:
7.1 Stakeholder engagement and coordination mechanisms established and supported
7.2 FLEGT Forum events on VPA-FLEGT and VNTLAS initiated
7.3 Out-reach with provincial government leaders and local authorities
7.4 Out-reach with local communities and CSOs
7.5 Out-reach with non-domestic private sector actors
Current situation. In the VPA negotiation phase, a variety of stakeholder consultation
and engagement mechanisms were employed. Since 2010, a series of national
consultation workshops, working groups and stakeholder meetings were organised by
VNFOREST on the contents of the Agreement. The timber industry associations have
been an important intermediary for the engagement of private sector actors. In 2012,
the VNGO FLEGT Network was established and has been involved in a range of actions
including community consultations, research and policy briefings, livelihood impact
assessment and independent monitoring studies. The VNGO FLEGT Network currently
includes around 60 members nationwide. The FLEGT projects have also been
instrumental in promoting stakeholder engagement and building new relationships
between stakeholder groups including CSOs, the private sector and the media.
Strategy & Priority Actions. In the implementation phase there is a need to strengthen
the mechanisms of multi-stakeholder engagement and coordination around the JIF. At
the same time, there will be a need to broaden the out-reach to stakeholder groups that
have so far only had limited involvement in the process. In particular, provincial
government leadership and local government authorities will be critical to the success
of implementing the VNTLAS, for which it will be necessary to introduce a program of
sensitisation and information provision. There is a need to strengthen out-reach with

40. ~ 39 ~
local communities and local CSOs, and with household timber growers and processors
operating in the domestic market in Viet Nam. It will also be necessary to strengthen
out-reach with Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) companies operating in Viet Nam, as
well as with private sector actors in the international arena.
The actions under the Strategic Task are aimed at fulfilling these needs for a broader
level of stakeholder engagement as well as strengthening stakeholder coordination
around the JIF and the VPA and VNTLAS implementation process.
3.7.1 Multi-Stakeholder Implementation Core Group
The focal point for these actions will be the establishment of the Multi-Stakeholder
Implementation Core Group (Milestone BG), as illustrated in Figure 3.1 above. The
representation, functions and obligations, and modalities of the Multi-Stakeholder
Implementation Core Group are as follows.
Representation
The Multi-Stakeholder Implementation Core Group (“Multi-Stakeholder Core Group”)
will comprise of 20 to 30 members, joining on a voluntary basis through an official letter
of registration. The Multi-Stakeholder Core Group includes representatives from the
following stakeholder groups:
Active members
 Timber industry associations
 Professional associations
 Tree growers organisations
 VNGO FLEGT Network members and other CSOs
 Research and training institutes
 FLEGT project holders
 INGOs and development cooperation programs (note: these agencies may self-
nominate as active members or in observer status)
 Verification agencies / VNFOREST.
Observer status
 EU Delegation
 Development partners.
Functions and obligations
 To provide a focal point for effective communication and information exchange
on VPA-FLEGT implementation and the Joint Implementation Framework.

41. ~ 40 ~
 To propose issues for consideration by JPC/JICto be recorded in Minutes of
Multi-Stakeholder Core Group meetings.
 To provide advice and feedback on the preparation and introduction of VNTLAS.
 To promote coordination and synergy between VPA-FLEGT related actions.
 To convene sub-groups as may be needed to work jointly on specific tasks.
 To be a focal point for coordinating and supporting the production of standard
and consistent training and information materials on VPA and VNTLAS.
 To propose, agree on and support Forum events on topics and issues related to
FLEGT, the VPA and VNTLAS.
 To provide information to update the JIF Matrix in advance of each JPC/JIC
meeting.
 Multi-Stakeholder Core Group members are also responsible for relaying
information to their partners and other stakeholders.
Modalities
 Multi-Stakeholder Core Group meetings will be held in advance of each JPC/JIC
meeting (regular meetings) and interim meetings may be held according to
requirement.
 The Multi-Stakeholder Core Group will be chaired by VNFOREST and co-chaired
by one active member of the Multi-Stakeholder Core Group on a revolving basis.
The co-chairs will be nominated by the Multi-Stakeholder Core Group and will
cover the period between regular meetings.
 The co-chairs will be responsible for supporting the preparation of Multi-
Stakeholder Core Group meetings and for taking minutes of meetings in
coordination with VNFOREST.
 The co-chairs will be responsible for presenting the minutes of regular Multi-
Stakeholder Core Group meetings, including any issues arising for consideration
by JPC/JIC, at meetings of the JEM and JPC/JIC.
 The Multi-Stakeholder Core Group may propose issues for consideration by
JPC/JIC in the case that an issue is proposed by a member and supported by two
other members; in this respect, the minutes of meeting will record the number of
supporting members and any opposing viewpoints.
 Multi-Stakeholder Core Group meeting costs may be covered by different
members as agreed by the group.

42. ~ 41 ~
 In the letter of registration, Multi-Stakeholder Core Group members will
nominate one person to be the main contact point and one alternative contact
person for correspondence and communication of the group.
 Communication of the Multi-Stakeholder Core Group will be maintained through
an on-line group contact. The Multi-Stakeholder Core Group will endeavour to
provide video-conference access for distant members who cannot join meetings
in person.
 VNFOREST will assign a secretary to support the Multi-Stakeholder Core Group
and the co-chair will assign a secretary from their own organisation (draft
agenda, invitations, distributing minutes of meetings etc.).
One of the functions of the Multi-Stakeholder Core Group will be to coordinate and
jointly work on several priority actions identified in the JIF Matrix. These areas of joint
action include:
(i) Information, training and coaching programs for the private sector (Outcome
4.3 /Milestone AP);
(ii) Information and communications strategy (Oucome 6.1 / Milestone BD);
(iii) Initiate and organise FLEGT forum events on VPA/VNTLAS implementation
issues (Outcome 7.2 Milestone BH);
(iv) Stock take of current situation of public disclosure of information (Outcome 5.3
/ Milestone AX);
(v) Coordinated and complementary approaches to VPA/VNTLAS monitoring and
impact assessment (Outcome 5.4 / Milestone BC).
3.7.2 Out-reach mechanisms and FLEGT Forum events
The purpose of the FLEGT forum events will be to broaden the out-reach to a wider pool
of stakeholders, and in particular to build awareness and obtain feedback on VNTLAS
implementation issues [Ref. Annex V/Section 9.2]. The FLEGT forum will not be an
established body – but rather a mechanism to engage a wider pool of stakeholders in
the implementation process, including provincial government leaders and local
government authorities, local communities, and the non-domestic private sector.
Another purpose of this mechanism is to avoid duplication of effort, whereby different
agencies and FLEGT projects may be organising workshops and events on similar topics.
The topics and participants for the FLEGT Forum events will be proposed and agreed
through the Multi-Stakeholder Core Group. An overall milestone has been given for this
action – relating to the initiation of the series of FLEGT Forum events (Milestone BH).

43. ~ 42 ~
3.8 Strategic Task ❽ VPA-FLEGT supporting and connected actions
This Strategic Task is divided into five outcome areas:
8.1 Development of related industry standards on timber legality
8.3 FLEGT-VPA related research and studies
8.4 Technical developments related to VNTLAS implementation
8.5 Regional and cross-border initiatives related to VPA-FLEGT
This Strategic Task covers a range of VPA-FLEGT supporting and connected actions. It is
envisaged that these areas-of-action will evolve over time, information about which will
be included in periodic updates to the JIX Matrix.

44. ~ 43 ~
4.1 Investment and resource planning for JIF
Technical assistance (TA), investment and funding for the actions in the JIF will come
from different sources, including direct assistance to VNFOREST, development
cooperation programs, and through the FLEGT projects etc. After ratification of the
Agreement, it is intended that MARD will submit plans for State Budget resources to
support the actions of government agencies related to VPA implementation.
The JIF does not include an overall consolidated funding plan. Rather, resource
requirements are identified in different sections of the framework, as follows:
- The JIF Matrix identifies the types of support needed for each action and the
supporting agencies, as well as indicating actions that are already funded including
the funding source, and actions for which additional funding is required.
- The JIF Matrix also identifies those actions for which specific and detailed financing
and investment plans will need to be prepared (e.g. IT investment plan for
management information systems for verification and FLEGT licensing, and
investment plan for nationwide training program for verification agencies).
- Specific technical assistance inputs and funding and resource requirements will also
be included in the Annual Work Plans of the JPC/JIC.
4.2 Coordination of Technical Assistance inputs
The JIF will include TA inputs from several Development Partners (including the GIZ
Program, UN REDD Program, FAO EU FLEGT Program, and the EU FLEGT Facility
amongst others). Coordination of the TA inputs will be needed to ensure that they are
effectively integrated with the JIF as well as to establish clear lines of communication
and to avoid duplication of effort and delays. The coordination of TA inputs with the JIF
will be led by VNFOREST following the process described in Figure 4.1.
4. Practical Arrangements for JIF

45. ~ 44 ~
A. All official communication on the preparation, implementation and approval of TA
inputs (including Terms of Reference, draft reports and final reports etc.) will be
made between the Development Partners and the Vice Director General of
VNFOREST responsible for VPA-FLEGT, together with the FLEGT Standing Office.
B. All official communication with the EU (EU Delegation and DG Environment)
regarding the TA inputs will be made by VNFOREST and the FLEGT Standing Office
(e.g. sharing Terms of Reference and reports for EU comments).
C. The direction and coordination of work connected to the TA inputs within
VNFOREST will be made by VNFOREST leadership (i.e. through sub-departments of
VNFOREST, the Legislation Drafting Board and the Technical Review Panel).
D. The EU may seek the assistance of the EU FLEGT Facility (EFI) for official responses
to VNFOREST on the TA inputs (e.g. comments on TOR and reports).
E. More direct inputs by the EU FLEGT Facility may be arranged through the FLEGT
Standing Office (e.g. arranging EFI technical missions and other support activities).
F. To implement the assignments, the Development Partners and any consultants work
together with the relevant departments of VNFOREST and other stakeholders.
G. Consultants are also expected to liaise with the FLEGT Standing Office on the work
plan and schedule and other matters requiring coordination.
Figure 4.1 Coordination of Technical Assistance inputs
Development Partners
VNFOREST
(Vice Director)
FLEGT Standing
Office
EU
VNFOREST
Departments
Technical
Review Panel
Legislation
Drafting Board
Consultants
EU FLEGT
Facility (EFI)
A
B D
EG
C
F

46. ~ 45 ~
Appendix 1. JIF Matrix of Actions
See attached Excel file.
Appendix 2. Steps for preparation of the JIF
05/2017 Discussion between VN and EU on outline, strategic tasks and main
contents of JIF at TWG11
05/2017 Stakeholder meeting to present outline, strategic tasks and format for JIF
Matrix of actions; and to introduce the Multi-Stakeholder Implementation
Core Group
06/2017 Stakeholder inputs to JIF Matrix
07/2017 JIF Matrix sent out to stakeholders for comments and further inputs
09/2017 1ST Draft JIF Main Text and Matrix sent to EU and stakeholders for review
and comments
09/2017 Multi-Stakeholder Core Group meeting to present and obtain feedback on
1ST Draft JIF
10/2017 Written comments received from stakeholders
10/2017 Written comments received from EU
11/2017 Multi-Stakeholder Core Group meeting to give feedback on main
proposed revisions to JIF; and to agree on representation, functions and
modalities of the Multi-Stakeholder Core Group
11/2017 2ND Draft JIF finalized
11/2017 Presentation of JIF to first meeting of Joint Preparation Committee