VIENTIANE: Champassak authorities have inked a deal with a private company authorising the cultivation of macadamia nuts and durian on a 150-hectare site in Pakxong district.
The land concession will allow the company to grow crops for domestic supply and export.
The project, located in Phanuandong village, aligns with the drive to grow more crops for export.
The agreement was signed by the Head of the Planning and Investment Department in Champassak province, Dr Souksavanh Vilayvong, and company executive Le Van Nha.
The signing was witnessed by the Deputy Governor of Champassak province, Mr Somboun Heuangvongsa, and other officials.
Interest in durian cultivation has grown considerably due to the Lao Agrobusiness Association’s collaboration with Chinese companies to explore export opportunities.
At a recent meeting, the President of the Lao Agrobusiness Association, Mr Bounthieng Lattanavong, highlighted the improved cultivation techniques and expanding durian farms across Laos, which are now yielding high-quality produce.
Currently, 170 durian farms covering 20,000 hectares are harvesting fruit from over 10,000 trees, with an annual yield of about 900 tonnes.
By 2029, the association hopes to harvest fruit from 270,000 trees, with an expected yield of 24,300 tonnes, valued at more than US$155 million.
These advancements, supported by expertise and investment, position Laos as a competitive player in the durian export market.
Macadamia cultivation is also gaining momentum, supported by international cooperation. For instance, Phongsaly province is collaborating with Vietnam’s Dien Bien province on a macadamia planting demonstration project, according to the KPL news agency.
Vietnamese partners are providing seeds, fertiliser and technical expertise to expand macadamia farming in Laos. - Vientiane Times/ANN
