Vientiane (VNA) - The Lao Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry has convened a conference to chart strategies for strengthening the country’s coffee and tea industries, aiming to position coffee production as a key driver of exports, foreign currency earnings and improved livelihoods.
Accordingly, the country will give priority to improving quality and developing sustainable agricultural ecosystems.
The Green CUP project, which supports a green economy through climate-resilient, high-quality, and inclusive value chains, held its annual technical steering committee meeting in Vientiane on February 10.
It reaffirmed the commitment to further develop the coffee and tea sectors into a sustainable green agriculture model capable of meeting both economic and environmental goals, through close cooperation between the Lao Government and international development partners.
The initiative focuses on developing sustainable coffee and tea value chains, particularly in northern Laos, targeting 3,000 to 4,000 smallholder households and benefiting up to 25,000 people. The project emphasises climate-resilient production methods, improved governance, and inclusive economic opportunities, with a special focus on empowering women and youth.
The coffee sector plays a vital role in Laos' socio-economic development. More than 80 domestic and foreign companies are currently investing in coffee production, processing and export, generating over 100 million USD in annual export value. The industry provides stable income for more than 20,000 farming households and creates jobs for over 300,000 workers nationwide.
Alongside coffee, tea production is emerging as another key strength. Primarily produced by rural households, Lao tea has strong potential to become a premium export product.
With regional and international demand continuing to rise, investors are showing growing interest in tea cultivation in Laos. In this context, the Green CUP project plays a crucial role in providing financial and technical support to the agricultural sector, helping farmers produce high-quality tea that meets international standards./.
Laos, Thailand, Malaysia advance integrated power project
The cooperation reflects strategic progress in energy collaboration among Laos, Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore, enhancing cross-border electricity trade through more effective regional energy resource management.
