(KPL) From 31 December 2024 to 2 January 2025, Vice President Pany Yathortou visited Xieng Khuang Province, where she was welcomed by Bounchan Sivongphanh, Governor of Xieng Khuang, along with other provincial leaders.

During her visit, Mrs Pany encouraged local farmers in Ban Hokang, Phaxay District, to continue cultivating Khao Kai Noi rice, Xieng Khuang’s indigenous variety, which is popular among rice consumers in Laos and neighbouring countries.

Mrs Pany emphasised the importance of preserving Khao Kai Noi rice varieties, expanding cultivation areas, maintaining quality, and enhancing productivity.

Khao Kai Noi rice is grown in five districts across the northern province, covering a total area of 12,500 hectares and yielding 55,000 tonnes annually. Of this, 5,000 tonnes are exported to Vietnam, while the remainder meets domestic demand and is supplied to Vientiane.

According to Mr. Somsamone Phalichanh, Director of the Agriculture and Forestry Department of Xieng Khuang, crop farming and animal husbandry are key drivers of the province’s development.

In addition to Khao Kai Noi rice, other cash crops such as maize, passion fruit, coffee, and garlic are cultivated. Livestock farming, including cattle, buffalo, and horses, also plays a significant role. These products not only supply the province but are exported to Vientiane, other provinces, and international markets.

Mr. Sivanh, head of the Khao Kai Noi farmers’ group in Ban Hokang, stated that the village has organised a Khao Kai Noi rice farmers’ group to oversee the entire process from planting to harvesting. This includes monitoring water levels, fertilisers (animal manure), pests, weather conditions, and seed preservation.

Farmers in Ban Hokang cultivate four varieties of Khao Kai Noi—black, yellow, striped, and red—yielding between 3.8 and 4 tonnes per hectare per season. However, limited water availability during the dry season restricts production to one crop per year.

KPL