(KPL) Lao durian producers are actively exploring opportunities to enter the Chinese market, following a tripartite meeting on August 20, 2024, between the Lao Agricultural Business Association, representatives of Lao durian growers, and Chinese agricultural importers.

The meeting, chaired by Bounthieng Latthanavong, President of the Lao Agricultural Business Association, focused on the potential for exporting Lao durians to China. Mr. Bounthieng highlighted the progress made in agricultural trade, noting, "To date, the government of Laos, through the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, has successfully negotiated the trade of over 33 agricultural products with China. This marks significant progress in promoting agriculture as a key economic driver for Laos."

Lao durian cultivation has a long history, but various challenges have hindered its development as an export commodity. However, Mr. Bounthieng emphasized that the production process is now becoming more robust and professional, positioning Lao durians for success in international markets.

Elavanh Latpakdee, a representative of Lao durian growers, shared that the association currently includes 170 farms covering 20,000 hectares. Of these, more than 10,000 durian trees have already begun bearing fruit, producing around 900 tons of durians. By 2029, the association aims to harvest approximately 270,000 durian trees, yielding 24,300 tons of durians valued at over USD 155.5 million.

Lao durian growers are supported by experienced professionals like Duangdavone Sulayavongsa, also known as 'Ajan Ne,' a durian cultivation expert with nearly 20 years of experience in Thailand. He expressed confidence that Lao durians could become a significant export commodity, contributing to the country's economy.

Chinese investor Tao Jian, who operates a durian farm in Laos, noted that Lao soil is fertile and ideal for durian cultivation. He also mentioned the successful hybridization of Malaysian durian strains with local Lao varieties, resulting in high-quality produce.

The meeting also included input from Chinese businesses interested in importing Lao agricultural products, further underscoring the potential for expanding trade relations between Laos and China in the durian farming sector.

KPL