This newly designated reserve builds on the foundation of the Cu Lao Cham Marine Protected Area while expanding its scope to include natural forest ecosystems on the islands. The initiative aims to implement an integrated management approach, linking forest, marine, and coastal ecosystems for more effective conservation.

The reserve is located in Tan Hiep island commune and covers 21,887.2 hectares of marine area along with 1,642.8 hectares of island area. It is divided into different functional zones, including a strictly protected zone, an ecological restoration zone, a service-administrative zone, and a buffer zone.

The archipelago consists of seven islands: Hon Lao, Hon Cu, Hon Kho, Hon La, Hon Dai, Hon Mo, and Hon Tai. Among them, Hon Lao is the largest, spanning approximately 1,147 hectares, and serves as the main residential area of the local community.

Cu Lao Cham is renowned for its rich biodiversity, with a special-use forest containing more than 620 species of vascular plants, including many rare and endangered species with high medicinal value. Fifty-two of these plant species are listed in Vietnam’s Red Data Book as conservation priorities. The area is also home to diverse marine ecosystems and a variety of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects.

Amid growing challenges in biodiversity conservation, local authorities and the Cu Lao Cham Marine Protected Area have been working on sustainable conservation solutions, focusing on community engagement to ensure long-term ecological balance. Since 2006, the Quang Nam provincial People’s Committee has managed conservation efforts through the Cu Lao Cham Marine Protected Area Management Board, thereby contributing to the development of a green economy and sustainable livelihoods for local residents.

Recognized for its unique harmony between nature and human culture, Cu Lao Cham - Hoi An was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in May 2009 and is now part of Vietnam’s network of 11 biosphere reserves.

Cu Lao Cham to get national grid access this year

State-run Vietnam Electricity (EVN) and the People’s Committee of central Quang Nam province held a ground-breaking ceremony for the project that provides electricity access from the national grid to Cham Island (Cu Lao Cham) on January 9.