2025 Internal Audit of the FSC Forest Certification Group – Hue City Cooperative Alliance

In implementation of Project AIN 8748, from December 18–19, 2025, the Hue City Cooperative Alliance (TPHCA), in collaboration with an independent consultant and FSC internal auditor (Dr. Hoang Thi Nguyen Hai), conducted an internal audit to prepare for the M2 annual surveillance audit as required by the FSC certification system.

Audit Locations: Included audits at the TPHCA office and field assessments at forest lots belonging to member cooperatives selected for sampling (Thuy Phuong Cooperative).
Objectives: To assess compliance with the FSC Forest Management (FSC-FM) Standard among group members; evaluate the suitability, adequacy, and effectiveness of the Group Management System (GMS); verify the practical application of internal procedures and guidelines; assess the understanding, implementation capacity, and responsibility of the Group Management Board and cooperative members; and identify Non-Conformities (NCs) and areas for improvement to propose corrective and preventive measures before the official audit.
Audit Results: Overall, TPHCA has proactively reviewed, updated, and maintained relatively complete FSC documentation. Forest owners and cooperative personnel have participated in numerous training sessions, possess experience in silviculture and forest management, and comply with the basic requirements of FSC standards. However, more focus is needed on waste management. Some reports require updates with recent field monitoring data, and monitoring forms must be fully completed with all necessary information.

Recommendations: In the coming period, cooperatives are urged to promptly address the identified non-conformities before the official audit. There should be increased communication and supervision regarding waste collection during forestry activities. Additionally, the Cooperative Alliance must continue to maintain and enhance internal inspection and monitoring in accordance with FSC standards.