The importance of non-timber forest products (NTFPs) for the welfare of rural communities is globally recognized. The aim of this study was to provide a background of the collection and marketing of NTFPs in rural towns in the Maule Region. A representative sample of 0.2 % of the regional rural population was surveyed. The results revealed that NTFP collectors were 89 %, with large participation of women. Collected and sold NTFPs come from the introduced species Rubus ulmifolius and Rosa rubiginosa; and from the native Cyttaria espinosae, Gevuina avellana and Peumus boldus. Among provinces, people showed different preferences in terms of harvested and sold species. The results revealed the important value of NTFPs for rural population.