KPL
In a strong display of regional solidarity, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) has received 1,050 tons of rice from the ASEAN+3 Emergency Rice Reserve (APTERR). The official handover ceremony took place in Vientiane on September 16.
The donation, part of the 2024 ASEAN+3 rice allocation, was contributed by the governments and peoples of the Republic of Korea, China, and Japan. It is intended to support communities severely affected by recent natural disasters across the Lao PDR.
Presiding over the ceremony was Mr. Phosay Sayyasone, Minister of Labor and Social Welfare (MLSW), joined by senior representatives from the embassies of the Republic of Korea, Japan, and China. Also attending were officials from the World Food Programme, APTERR, and other local and international stakeholders.
“This rice support is more than just food. It is a symbol of unity and compassion from our regional partners during times of crisis,” Minister Phosay remarked.
Between July and August 2025, the Lao PDR was struck by Tropical Storms Wutip and Wipha, which caused widespread destruction across 12 provinces — damaging farmland, homes, schools, and infrastructure. More than 316,000 people were identified as urgently needing food assistance and support. A joint assessment by the National Disaster Management Committee and the Inter-Agency Standing Committee (IASC) estimated recovery needs at over LAK 1.012 billion.
In direct response, APTERR approved the release of 1,050 tons of rice for distribution in the hardest-hit provinces, including Phongsaly, Luang Prabang, Savannakhet, and Khammouane. This delivery is part of a 3,800-ton allocation to the Lao PDR in 2024, contributed by the Republic of Korea (3,000 tons), China (500 tons), and Japan (300 tons).
Looking ahead, the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare, together with the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, plans to request the remaining 2,750 tons to continue recovery efforts in rural and flood-affected areas.
The Lao government extended its gratitude to the donors and partners, including the APTERR Secretariat and the World Food Programme, for their ongoing support in bolstering food security and disaster resilience.
“The Lao people will not forget the care shown by the governments and peoples of the Republic of Korea, China, and Japan,” Minister Phosay said. “This gesture reflects true friendship in difficult times.”
The Ministry pledged that all rice aid will reach the intended beneficiaries — particularly the most vulnerable groups often left behind in emergency response. With effective coordination and transparent distribution, the assistance is expected to bring vital relief to thousands still struggling to recover.
KPL
