Lao ministry prepares for surge in crop exports to China

Cassava is one of Laos' main exports to China. - VT

VIENTIANE (Vientiane Times/Asia News Network): The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry is hoping to make use of the Laos-China Railway, set to open in December, to bolster the export of agricultural produce, and aims to improve crop production and quality and engage in market negotiations.

Officials at the Agriculture Department said the ministry is advising agriculture authorities to improve the quality and yields of nine crops so they can be sold to China after the government signed a cooperation agreement with Chinese companies in May this year.