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Experiences with market development of non-timber forest products in Lao PDR


Document type: lecture
Download file(s): 116258 (174 KB)
Abstract: The aim of this paper is to inform individuals and organizations in China, Vietnam and Thailand who deal with marketing development and market information about the situation in Laos and to invite them to discuss modes of possible future collaboration on cross-boundary non-timber forest product (NTFP) market research. Some 70% of the Lao people live in upland communities. Marketing of NTFPs is their main source of cash income. Most of this income is used to buy rice, as rice shortages are a key issue in upland livelihoods. Therefore marketing of NTFPs is directly linked to food security in the uplands of Lao PDR. The key trend in NTFP marketing is an increased demand from cross-border markets (China, Vietnam, Thailand). This leads to rapid depletion of some products from the forests (e.g. rattan, orchids, bark products). It also leads to more conflicts between communities on the use of common forest resources. Many local initiatives exist to increase production of NTFPs in gardens. Yet income from NTFP marketing does not increase. Private sector development is not supported adequately. The Lao Government supports local initiatives to link farmers to markets, to manage common forest resources in a context of participatory land use planning and to promote domestication of NTFPs. A national taskforce has just started to develop a market information system at the national level. There is an urgent need to establish partnerships with organizations in China, Vietnam and Thailand, to share NTFP market information.
Note: Paper presented at the International Workshop on “Market Development for Improving Upland Poor’s Livelihood Security”, organized by the Centre for Community Development Studies (CDS), 30 August to 2 September 2005, Kunming, China
Authors: Foppes, J. , Phommasane, S.
Country: Lao People's Democratic Republic
Category: Policy
Keywords: forestry , communities , agriculture , trade
Language: eng
Organization: SNV - Netherlands Development Organisation
PAGE: 11
Place: Vientiane
Publisher: SNV Netherlands Development Organization
Year: 2005
Region: Southeast Asia
Right: © 2005 SNV
Subject: Agriculture and Rural Development
Title: Experiences with market development of non-timber forest products in Lao PDR