Agarwood, also known as lapnisan, is one of the rarest and most expensive trees in the world.
1. Agarwood Basics:
Agarwood is a non-timber type of wood found in the jungles of Southeast Asia, including the Philippines.
The tree itself is not valuable until it becomes infected with a specific mold, triggering the production of a dark, fragrant substance.
2. Liquid Gold:
The resin from infected agarwood is worth more than its weight in gold.
Perfumers and incense makers pay millions of dollars for a liter of this precious substance.
In 2013, the global agarwood trade was valued at $8 billion.
3. Legality and Protection:
Agarwood is endangered, and the Philippine government protects it.
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) prohibits buying, selling, collecting, or transporting any part of agarwood.
Despite the ban, poachers and traders still exploit it, often using codenames to avoid detection.
In summary, agarwood’s rarity and unique fragrance make it highly sought after, but its conservation remains crucial.
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