Observatory
Asia
The Land Matrix Regional Focal Point (RFP) Asia is coordinated by the Asian Farmers’ Association for Sustainable Rural Development (AFA). The RFP contributes to improved land governance and increased transparency and accountability by monitoring large-scale land acquisitions (LSLAs) in the region through its data collection, networking, research, capacity-building, communication, and advocacy activities. It also aims to build wider participation by regional, national, and local stakeholders.
Latest resources
Deal narratives
Deal Narrative 5: Implementing carbon offset projects in Indonesia’s rainforests – a win-win for climate and local communities?
2025-06-05Read more >>Although land-intensive investment projects have shaped economies and societies for centuries in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), renewed global attention surfaced in the 2000s due to surges in investments in agriculture. Placing even more pressure on land in these regions over the last two decades, global climate change mitigation efforts …
Publications
Between promise and practice: The role of carbon standards in community engagement in land-based offset projects in Indonesia and Madagascar
2025-10-08Read more >>This working paper, authored by several Land Matrix members, raises concerns about the adverse impacts land-intensive, nature-based solutions - although central to the voluntary carbon market (VCM) - may have on vulnerable communities. This research examines the regulatory scope of leading carbon standards and their implementation in offset projects in …
Publications
Case brief: Balancing progress and rights — land acquisition in the context of renewable energy in Nepal
2025-05-26Read more >>Despite Nepal possessing immense renewable energy potential, its persistent energy scarcity stems from its heavy reliance on traditional biomass and imported fossil fuels. For instance, hydropower accounts for only 3.5% of the total energy mix, with just 2% being harnessed as an energy source, even though the country’s projected capacity …
Deal narratives
Deal Narrative 4: Ensuring a just energy transition in the Philippines: Evidence from the Nabas Wind Farm
2025-02-27Read more >>With fuel combustion to generate electricity and heat accounting for almost half of global carbon emission in 2022 alone, decarbonising the energy sector has become essential if we are to meet global climate goals. Across Asia, countries are addressing this challenge by advancing large-scale renewable energy projects, such as India’s …