Law on Conservation, Promotion and Sustainable Development of the Forestry Sector

Law No. 462 establishes the legal framework for the conservation, promotion and sustainable development of the forestry sector in Nicaragua, based on natural forest management, plantation promotion and forest area protection. It creates the National Forestry Administration System (SNAF) integrated by public and private entities, with the National Forestry Institute (INAFOR) as the executing body under MAGFOR's leadership. It establishes fiscal incentives to promote forest plantations, sustainable management of natural forests and restoration of degraded areas, including exemptions from municipal taxes and income tax. It defines the regulatory framework for forestry harvesting permits, management plans, forest product transportation and concessions on state lands. The law also creates the National Forestry Development Fund (FONADEFO) to finance promotion programs and establishes a system of infractions and administrative sanctions to ensure compliance with forestry regulations.