Viet Nam home to 36 national parks

The upgrade decision, issued by the Lao Cai Provincial People's Committee, makes the new park the second national park in Lao Cai, alongside Hoang Lien National Park.

Covering approximately 18,510 hectares, the park is located across Muong Hum, Den Sang, and Y Ty communes. It is divided into a strictly protected core zone of about 14,690 hectares, an ecological restoration area of around 3,440 hectares, and an administrative and service zone spanning 380 hectares. Its buffer zone includes 32 villages in the three communes.

Bat Xat National Park plays an important role in conserving intact forest ecosystems, protecting biodiversity and genetic resources, and supporting environmental education and scientific research. It also contributes to water resource regulation, eco-tourism development, and the provision of forest environmental services, thereby improving local livelihoods while supporting socio-economic growth and ensuring national defense and security in the border area.

Geographically, the park marks the starting point of the Hoang Lien Son Range, stretching from Y Ty Commune toward the summit of Fansipan, the highest peak in Viet Nam. Its diverse terrain and elevation create ideal conditions for rich biodiversity.

The park is home to 976 species of vascular plants, including 137 rare and endangered species listed in Viet Nam's Red Data Book and the IUCN Red List (2021). Notably, 67 species are endemic to northern Viet Nam, while 38 are unique to the country.

In addition, 173 animal species have been recorded, including 42 mammals, 73 birds, 20 reptiles, and 38 amphibians. Among these are many rare and endangered species, including 18 mammals, 11 birds, six reptiles, and 17 amphibians recognized in both national and international conservation listings.

The upgrade of Bat Xat Nature Reserve is included in the national forestry planning for the 2021–2030 period, with a vision to 2050, under Decision No. 895/2024/QD-TTg issued by the Prime Minister. Seven new sites are expected to be upgraded, namely Muong Nhe, Bat Xat, Xuan Lien, An Toan, Bac Huong Hoa, Dak Rong, and Ea So, bringing the total number of national parks across the country to 41.

The recognition paves the way for conserving biodiversity and promoting sustainable development in national parks especially in terms of strengthening management capacity, enhancing climate resilience, and balancing conservation with local livelihoods, while addressing persistent challenges such as illegal logging, wildlife trafficking, and development pressures./.