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Laos has launched a large-scale durian cultivation project aimed at boosting exports to China, where demand for tropical fruits continues to soar. Spanning 25 years, the initiative focuses not only on increasing durian yield and quality but also on creating jobs and profit-sharing opportunities for local farmers.
According to Laos’ Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, the project’s initial phase will take place in Huay Kham village, Sangthong district, Vientiane, covering a pilot area of approximately 6 hectares. A dedicated farm will be established to cultivate and propagate high-quality durian varieties, catering to both domestic and international markets.
The project is a collaboration between the National Agriculture and Forestry Research Institute (NAFRI) and EK Farmland Co., Ltd., a company specializing in high-tech agriculture. Production methods will be based on research from the Fruit and Vegetable Research Center, ensuring scientific farming practices to enhance productivity and reduce costs.
The official partnership agreement was signed on October 7, attended by Mr. Somdet Bouphakham, Chief of Staff at the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, and Mr. Pooreum Song, CEO of EK Farmland.
Notably, the farming model involves local farmers, who will participate in production and share future profits, improving their livelihoods and fostering a sustainable agricultural supply chain.
Laos aims to export 400 tons of premium durian by 2026, with China as the primary target market. A key advantage is the China-Laos Railway, which reduces transportation time to less than two days, lowers logistics costs, and preserves product freshness. This edge positions Laos favorably against competitors like Thailand and Vietnam.
Laos is the only Southeast Asian nation among the three with a direct rail link to China, effectively utilized for agricultural exports.
To date, the railway has transported 150,000 tons of durian, a 91% increase from the previous year. The expansion of cold supply chain infrastructure further enables Lao durian to reach more Chinese provinces, enhancing market share opportunities.
With this new cultivation project, coupled with logistical advantages and strong Chinese demand, Laos is steadily establishing itself as a key durian supplier in Southeast Asia, while advancing long-term sustainable agricultural development.
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