Turtles in South-east Asia, especially in Vietnam, have been overexploited for more than a decade, largely because of international trade with and demand from China. This study examined natural populations in Cat Tien National Park and the local trade in surrounding areas to find ways of protecting remaining turtle populations more effectively. The results show that although trade around this protected area remains high, viable turtle populations still exist. However, these populations need immediate measures to protect them. Increased protection measures in such areas should have priority over trade control, given the complexity of the trade network and the lack of government resources to control it. Nevertheless, for long-term conservation goals additional measures such as trade control, environmental education in buffer zones, and raising people's awareness in urban areas, where wildlife consumption has increased, are also required.
