Reported by Palden
Edited By Pema Tso
Translated By TenGyal
35 Tibetans were arrested in Tengchen County, Tibet, for harvesting caterpillar fungus (Scientific name: Cordyceps sinensis) without a permit, an offense that carries strict legal penalties.
Following the Chinese government’s implementation of a mandatory “Caterpillar Fungus Harvesting Permit” (冬虫夏草采挖证) in Tibetan regions, 35 Tibetans were arrested on May 12 in Tengchen County, Tibet. Authorities accused them of harvesting the fungus without the required permit. Their current condition and whereabouts remain unknown.
According to information gathered by Tibet Times, the Chinese government has for several years been issuing “caterpillar fungus harvesting permits” across Tibetan regions, including Tsognon (Qinghai) and Sichuan. To secure a permit, individuals are required to submit their ID card, household registration, Tax Clearance Certificate and an application to the local government. In certain localities, the acquisition of this permit incurs a fee of 200 RMB. The permits are categorized into Two types: individual and Three permits in One(三证合一).
The official harvesting period for caterpillar fungus commences in mid-May and concludes on June 30th annually. During this timeframe, local authorities conduct periodic compliance checks. Failure to produce a valid permit is treated as an unlawful offense, punishable by monetary fines, administrative detention, and interrogation.
This year, a drastic plunge in caterpillar fungus (Tib: yartza gunbu) prices in Tibet has sparked deep anxiety among locals who depend on it for their livelihood. Speaking to our reporter, a local source shared, “Normally, this is the peak season for caterpillar fungus sales. In recent years, prices had skyrocketed, with a single large specimen fetching up to 35 yuan. This year, however, even the highest-grade fungus is barely bringing in 9 yuan—marking the lowest price crash the region has seen in over six years.”
According to findings gathered by our correspondent from various localities in Tibet, harvesting caterpillar fungus is subject to strict territorial regulations. Whether digging on one’s own land or leased plots, harvesters are strictly prohibited from crossing administrative boundaries. Furthermore, outsiders who harvest indiscriminately, or anyone who digs on local sacred mountains and restricted sites, face heavy fines and steep land fees. When disputes arise, petitioners seek resolution either by appealing to the local government or by turning to traditional Tibetan mediation groups.
