Laos saw cassava become its top agricultural export, earning over $408 million in the first months of 2023. Key markets include China, Vietnam, and Italy. Despite challenges, Laos aims to hit $2 billion in agricultural exports, with cassava leading alongside coffee and bananas.
In January 2024, Laos faces a trade deficit exceeding $188 million, with cassava leading exports. China remains the top destination for Laotian exports, worth $198 million, amidst economic challenges like soaring inflation rates. Total imports and exports in January 2024 amount to around $1.3 billion.
Lao PDR aims for 2.5% agricultural growth by 2025, prioritizing cassava for export, particularly to China. Strategies include enhancing cassava production and processing, with a potential $100 million investment offering significant returns.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry and the FAO organized the National Investment Forum for Sustainable Agriculture in Vientiane. Deputy Minister Vongmany emphasized sustainable agricultural development, while FAO Representative Nasar Hayat urged private sector involvement.
The methods to optimize cassava cultivation, aiming to improve yield, quality, and environmental sustainability. Strategies include breeding for disease resistance, optimizing planting density, and adopting sustainable practices to ensure food security and support livelihoods.
The National Agriculture and Forestry Research Institute of Laos hosts "CMT’s 12th Starch Value Chain ASIA" on Feb 27-29, 2024. It focuses on Southeast Asia's agri-food sector, emphasizing economic growth, sustainability, food security, innovation, and investment opportunities.
The Alliance Cassava Program in Laos develops innovative solutions to enhance farm productivity and sustainability for smallholders. Through Future Stems, it distributes disease-resistant planting materials across Laos and neighboring countries, while its molecular laboratory conducts vital research on infectious cassava pathogens.
Launched on April 12, 2021, in Laos by the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT's Cassava Program, the new facility aims to enhance cassava research and development, addressing productivity, resilience, and value chain challenges to contribute to regional food security and rural development.
Cassava is vital in Laos for food security and income, especially in rural areas. Challenges like low productivity and market access hinder economic growth. The ACIAR program focuses on improving the cassava value chain through research, training, and partnerships, aiming to boost yields, market connections, and gender equality, ultimately enhancing rural livelihoods.
In Laos, cassava, a crucial cash crop, confronts serious threats from diseases, imperiling its lucrative industry. The Future Stems Centre, aided by ACIAR, initiated in 2021, targets disease-free cassava production. Led by Dr. Jonathan Newby, the project employs advanced techniques, yielding high stem cuttings per plant annually. Collaboration across borders facilitates knowledge exchange, fortifying Laos' position in resilient agriculture. ACIAR's backing empowers local researchers, bolstering their capacity to combat challenges, as emphasized by Dr. Chanthakhone Boualaphanh of NAFRI.
On June 6, 2023, Phase II of the "Train-the-Trainer Program" began with an opening ceremony at NAFRI. Dr. Chay Bounphanouxay and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chanda Vongsombath delivered opening remarks. Led by Dr. Warinthorn Songkasiri, the event spans from June 6th to 9th, aiming to enhance cassava cultivation skills for 23 participants from Laos.
Asst. Prof. Dr. Veara Loha conducted the opening ceremony for Phase 2 of the Train-the-Trainer Program in Laos on July 20, 2023. The program aims to enhance participants' knowledge in cassava ethanol production. The training included lectures on ethanol industry and fermentation processes.
Efficient cassava waste management in Laos requires government policies, financial support, and public awareness to overcome technical and administrative challenges. Leveraging renewable energy opportunities while addressing barriers ensures sustainable development and environmental protection.
Laos' cassava sector drives its economy, with government backing, technology integration, and trade agreements bolstering growth. Overcoming challenges like price fluctuations and natural disasters while capitalizing on opportunities ensures sustainable development and poverty alleviation.
Laos' cassava industry exhibits strengths in high production and yield, yet faces challenges like disease management and market stability. Government initiatives and international partnerships are pivotal for enhancing technology transfer and farmer education, ensuring sustainable growth in cassava cultivation for economic development and food security in Laos.