ຂປລ
An agricultural product exhibition showcasing goods from farmers, producer groups and cooperatives opened at Lao ITECC in Vientiane on June 4 to mark the 48th anniversary of Cooperatives Day.
The two-day event, organized by the Department of Agricultural Promotion and Cooperatives under the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, aims to connect community products with modern markets and promote cooperative development across the country.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, officials highlighted the important role cooperatives have played in Laos' agricultural development and rural economy. They noted that cooperative development has gained renewed momentum following the adoption of the Law on Cooperatives in 2024.
Laos currently has 3,705 producer groups and 114 cooperatives operating nationwide. Agricultural and forestry cooperatives account for the largest share, followed by credit and savings, service, trading, and handicraft cooperatives.
Authorities said efforts will continue to strengthen producer groups, establish up to 100 additional agricultural cooperatives, and promote the use of science, technology and innovation in agricultural production.
The event also featured policy discussions on cooperative development, access to finance, business networking opportunities for rice and coffee producers, and recognition awards for outstanding cooperatives in 2025.
KPL
