- Illustrative photo.
VIENTIANE: The government plans to increase crop yields, upgrade processing plants, and expand the export market with a view to becoming a major player in the global cassava trade.
This was the central message delivered by Deputy Prime Minister Saleumxay Kommasith at a high-level seminar held in Pakxe City, Champassak province, on Thursday (March 6).
Speaking to government leaders, industry representatives, and other stakeholders, the deputy prime minister, who is Chair of the National Trade and Transport Facilitation Committee, highlighted the need for infrastructure improvement, investment incentives, and trade facilitation as crucial to unlocking the sector’s full potential.
The seminar was organised in cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry and the Ministry of Industry and Commerce.
It brought together key ministers, provincial governors, and industry representatives, all committed to shaping the future of Laos’ cassava industry.
Minister of Agriculture and Forestry Dr Linkham Douangsavanh told the meeting that more Lao farmers are switching to cassava cultivation due to higher yields and strong market demand.
Last year, the crop was grown on more than 295,000 hectares, producing an impressive 7.4 million tonnes of cassava.
Major production hubs include Xayaboury, Saravan, Xekong, Champassak, Borikhamxay, and Vientiane.
Laos currently has 22 cassava processing factories that produce tapioca, with a production capacity of 1 million tonnes a year, but factories require 3.7 million tonnes of raw cassava annually to meet demand.
Cassava exports are experiencing rapid growth, with 2.4 million tonnes exported in 2024, generating over US$440 million in revenue, according to the most recent figures from the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry.
Deputy PM Saleumxay urged stakeholders to focus on value-added processing and high quality to strengthen the country’s position in international markets.
“By improving our processing capabilities and ensuring high standards, we can increase our export value and attract more international buyers,” he said.
Seminar participants discussed policies for growth, investment opportunities, and strategies for improving logistics and market access, reaffirming Laos’ commitment to become a leading player in the global cassava trade. - Vientiane Times/ANN
