(KPL)  The 12th Vientiane One District One Product (ODOP) and Model Family Product Exhibition is taking place from May 4 to May 10, 2026, at the Lao-ITECC Exhibition Center.

The opening ceremony was attended by Sililathongsin Thongpheng, Chairman of the Vientiane Administrative Committee, along with senior officials from the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, district governors, and representatives of the Vientiane Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Officials say the annual exhibition, first launched in 2014, aims to promote local production and expand market access for Lao goods. The 2026 event is organized in cooperation with multiple government agencies and Lao World Public Company.

Speaking at the event, Vanmany Phimmasane said the exhibition supports small and medium-sized enterprises and helps strengthen the national branding of ODOP and model family products.

According to organizers, goods worth 12.49 billion kip were displayed at last year’s exhibition, generating total sales of 2.73 billion kip.

The ODOP initiative, launched in 2013, encourages each district to develop at least five signature products. As of May 2026, Vientiane has certified 77 business units under the national ODOP program and developed 319 products across 65 villages.

This year’s exhibition features 170 business units, including 70 ODOP producers from Vientiane and participants from several provinces, including Luang Prabang, Savannakhet, and Champasak.

Organizers estimate the total value of goods on display at approximately 13.74 billion kip.

In addition to product showcases, the event includes seminars on solar energy, competitions in recycling, weaving, and Lao cooking, as well as youth activities such as a children’s fashion show and talent performances.

A special pavilion highlights industrial and processed goods from Chanthabuly District.

During the opening ceremony, two business units were awarded the National ODOP trademark. They include Bouachanh Lao Food Production in Xaysettha District and the People with Disabilities Handicraft Group in Hatsadyfong District.

Organizers say the exhibition continues to play a key role in promoting domestic products and supporting economic growth in Laos.

KPL