Lao organic vegetables sprouting strong growth
Lao organic vegetables sprouting strong growth
Sales of Lao organic vegetables are expected to increase into the future as more people take an interest in looking after their health.
That was the view of a representative from Nongteng Organic Farm, which has received chemical free certification for its produce from the Department of Agriculture, explaining that the farm had witnessed a doubling in overall sales since it began operations in 2012. This showed there was strong consumer demand for organic vegetables which has been increasing each year, Ms Phonesavanh Simmalayvong said.
For example, sales of their fresh organic wheatgrass had doubled compared to the same period last year from 150kg to 300kg a month.
She expected Lao organic vegetables would continue to grow for the next 2-3 years as restaurants had increased their orders recently.
She believed the organic market, which takes place in Xetthathirath Park next to the That Luang esplanade every Wednesday and Saturday and is supported by the Lao Organic Group, had been of great assistance to farmers in promoting their produce.
With the increasing demand each year many farmers have switched from growing vegetables using chemical fertilisers to organic methods.
According to an official from the Lao Organic Agriculture Group, the number of farmers and consumers interested in organic produce has grown since the project was launched in 2004, as people are more interested in caring for their health.
The organic market in Vientiane sells 1.8 to 2 tonnes on average of organic produce a month, which is enough to support all the members of the organic farming group.
However, as market demand continues to grow the group is facing the challenge of encouraging more farmers to increase their production with the aim of supplying both domestic and overseas customers.
The group plans to expand and continue promoting organic agriculture on a larger scale, hoping to see Lao farmers exporting organic produce and carving out a niche in the regional market with a reputation for being clean and green.
