Understanding the Heterogeneity of Forest Insurance Adoption: A Comparative Study of Insurance Mechanisms Between France and China

In a context of increasing natural hazards due to climate change, forest insurance is a relevant tool to consider. However, the development of forest insurance schemes varies widely across countries, reflecting differences in forest characteristics, institutional frameworks, and public risk management policies. In this article, we investigate the drivers of this heterogeneity by comparing forest insurance schemes in two contrasting national contexts: France and China. While forest insurance coverage remains relatively limited in France, China has implemented large-scale insurance programs. By examining the design, governance, and role of government intervention in both schemes, we identify the key factors that help explain the differences in insurance uptake across countries. Finally, we discuss innovative insurance products and policy mechanisms that could encourage the adoption of forest insurance.