(KPL) The Bolaven Plateau Coffee, Tea, and Agricultural Products Festival 2025 took place from 8 to 10 February 2025 at Seethon Kommadam Monument, Paksong District, Champasak Province. As one of the most celebrated events in the southern region, the festival successfully promoted tourism, celebrated agricultural heritage, and contributed to economic growth within the local community.

The festival was organized by the Paksong District Government with support from Champasak Provincial Government and Lao Coffee Association (LCA). It brought together farmers, businesses, industry experts, and international stakeholders to showcase the region's agricultural excellence. The event was attended by thousands of people, including tourists exploring the Bolaven Plateau's beautiful surroundings. In 2024, Paksong District welcomed 404,000 visitors, including 310,000 international tourists, generating over 14 billion Lao Kip—a 24.5 percent increase compared to the previous year.

The 2025 festival aimed to strengthen domestic production, expand market opportunities, and promote high-quality coffee and tea products. Mr. Bounlith Thepbounsing, Acting Governor of Paksong District stated, “This event was not only about showcasing our products but also about encouraging collaboration and economic independence in the agricultural sector.”

A total of 70 booths and 50 business units were featured in this exhibition, which included companies from Laos as well as abroad. Among the participants were the Paksong District Producers' Group, coffee and tea cooperatives, export companies, coffee associations, handicraft and processing companies, One District, One Product (ODOP) businesses, manufacturing and trading firms, vehicle distributors, and commercial banks.

Throughout the festival, there were free coffee tastings at all exhibition booths, specialty coffee cupping sessions with local farmers, and a coffee brewing competition. Art performances by primary and secondary school students added a cultural element, while expert-led discussions and coffee talks provided valuable insights into the industry. One of the key discussions focused on "Collaborating to Enhance Lao Coffee Production for Fair and Stable Market Access," featuring perspectives from farmers and industry leaders.

The opening ceremony was attended by distinguished government officials, including Lt. Gen. Vilay Lakhamfong, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Public Security; Mr. Alounxay Sounnalath (PhD), Governor of Champasak Province; Mr. Kikeo Singnavong, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Forestry; Ms. Chansouk Sengphachan, Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce; Mr. Bounlith Thepbounsing, Governor of Paksong District; and Ms. Boonheuang Carol Lidang, President of the Lao Coffee Association (LCA).

Over the course of the three-day festival, there was great participation from coffee lovers and local communities, as well as online audiences watching live. Furthermore, it helped boost the economy of Paksong District, benefiting local farmers and businesses. Ms. Boonheuang Carol Lidang, President of the LCA expressed her gratitude for the support received, “We are incredibly grateful for the contributions from our sponsors, businesses, and coffee farmers. We look forward to making next year’s event even bigger and more collaborative, bringing in more coffee businesses and partners.”

The event was supported by Dao Coffee, Dao Heuang Group, the Green Cup Project (AFD and European Union), Phetsavang Coffee, Sesouk Coffee, and Somxay Chalern Songserm Karnkased Co., Ltd, and PTT Lao.

KPL