Experts from 13 countries are gathering at a meeting in Hanoi from August 2-4 to discuss tiger protection methods.

Vietnam held a ceremony to mark World Tiger Day for the first time to raise awareness about tigers on July 29

They are seeking measures to double the wild tiger population before 2022.

As part of this effort, the participating countries have been developing a national tiger restoration programme.

Earlier on July 29, Vietnam held a ceremony to mark World Tiger Day for the first time to raise awareness about tigers, one of the world’s most endangered species. The event will be organised annually in the country in the time to come.

According to the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), just 30 wild tigers survive today in Vietnam out a global population of 3,200. The WWF said there were 100 wild tigers in Vietnam 10 years ago.

The number of wild tigers worldwide has decreased by 97%, with the predator\'s natural habitat declining by 93% since 1900. The situation is blamed on illegal tiger hunting and trafficking as well as encroachment of tiger habitats.

“It’s high time to take drastic measures to preserve wild tigers as they are of great importance to biodiversity. Preservation of tigers and their natural habitat means the preservation of biodiversity, protection of the environment and the fostering sustainable development,” said Hoang Thi Thanh Nha, Deputy Director of the Biodiversity Conservation Agency under the Vietnam Environment Administration.

Vietnam is a major market for illegal trafficking of tiger glue and alcohol as increasing numbers of the rich and state officials are said to indulge in the use of tiger-derived ‘health’ products.

The increasing demand for these products in Vietnam has lead to a soaring in the illegal trade and importation of tiger remains from neighbouring countries. From March to June 2011, Vietnamese police seized three tigers illegally imported from Laos.

Hanoi is increasing publicity on the need to preserve the rare predator