VU

Chinese Agarwood

Aquilaria sinensis

Declining

Overview

A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.

Aquilaria sinensis faces severe pressure from unsustainable harvesting for agarwood production, where the resinous heartwood is highly valued in traditional medicine and perfumery. Illegal logging and over-exploitation have dramatically reduced wild populations across its native range in southern China and Southeast Asia. Habitat destruction from agricultural expansion and urban development further compounds population decline, while the species' slow growth rate limits natural recovery.

Threat summary

Habitat

Aquilaria sinensis naturally occurs in tropical and subtropical evergreen forests, typically in mountainous regions at elevations between 100-1,000 meters. The species thrives in well-drained soils of primary and secondary forests across southern China, Vietnam, and other parts of Southeast Asia.

Conservation measures underway

Ex-situ conservationLegislation

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Chinese Agarwood classified as Vulnerable?
Chinese Agarwood is classified as Vulnerable because the population is declining and the species faces a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future if current pressures continue. Aquilaria sinensis faces severe pressure from unsustainable harvesting for agarwood production, where the resinous heartwood is highly valued in traditional medicine and perfumery. Illegal logging and over-exploitation have dramatically reduced wild populations across its native range in southern China and Southeast Asia. Habitat destruction from agricultural expansion and urban development further compounds population decline, while the species' slow growth rate limits natural recovery.
Where does Chinese Agarwood live?
Chinese Agarwood occurs in China. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Chinese Agarwood?
The main threats to Chinese Agarwood are ai-1, ai-2, ai-3, and ai-4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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