This study, focused on the non-timber forest product: The evolution of formalisation measures in Zimbabwe for bark and fruit harvesting of the iconic baobab tree, Adansonia digitata,(NTFP) 'sector' in southern Africa, was commissioned as one of the case analyses on experiences of formalisation of informal sectors. By its very nature, the NTFP sector is largely informal and loosely regulated, and as such there is much to learn about the impacts of formalisation. To gain deeper insights into these impacts four case studies of commercialised species were analysed: The customary and statutory regulation in South Africa and Namibia of the marula tree, Sclerocarya birrea, and its products; The impact of diverse formalisation measures in South Africa and Namibia for Hoodia, a succulent plant under development as an appetite suppressant, and the complex governance arrangements that have evolved in South Africa and Lesotho to manage use of Pelargonium sidoides, which is incorporated into a top-selling bronchial remedy in global markets.