Frankincense (Boswellia carterii, B. frereana) resin harvesting has a deep historical and cultural heritage in Somaliland, providing economic benefits for centuries. Today the resins are highly relevant in the global economy, with applications in cosmetics, aromatherapy, and emerging medical and therapeutic applications. Thus, the
frankincense forests are key cultural and economic elements in Somaliland. However, our recent research is indicating that the demand for frankincense resin internationally is outpacing the supply. Sixyears ago there was a small market for these Somali resins now there is a booming market and a rise in the selling price. Harvesters are
drastically over harvesting trees in an effort to gain economically and meet exporters demand, causing the trees to die rapidly. This situation overall indicates the beginning of a serious and highly damaging resource conflict, and the impending collapse of thefrankincense forests.”
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