Charcoal manufacturer invests in mai tiew plantation
Charcoal manufacturer invests in mai tiew plantation
A white charcoal manufacturer in Laos plans to grow 4,000 hectares of mai tiew trees (Cratexylon prunitfolium) nationwide over the next five years in order to secure raw materials for the industry.
Plantation and Charcoal Processing Co. Ltd which produces and exports white charcoal for the Japanese market announced last week that it was preparing one million mai tiew seedlings for local farmers so they can grow the trees under the 2+3 policy.
The 2+3 policy is one of the government initiatives which encourages investors and land owners to partner and develop industrial tree plantations.
The policy 2+3 refers to a framework where farmers must provide land and the labour force; while investors provide the funds, technical support and a ready market for the tree growers.
The Japanese firm disclosed the latest information on its business expansion plan to grow mai tiew at a ceremony on June 1 in Borikhan district, Borikhamxay province to mark to National Arbour Day. The company has grown 250,000 mai tiew seedlings on five hectares of land.
Attending the ceremony were Plantation and Charcoal Processing Co. Ltd Director, Mr Yasushi Seura, Lao Wood Production Promotion Association Chairman, Mr Damduan Phomduangsy, the association advisor, Mr Ousavanh Thiengthepvongsa and an official from the Forestry Department, Mr Bounlieng Singvichit.
Japan-Lao Friendship Association Chairman, Mr Sadao Omura and Charcoal and Firewood Association Chairman, Mr Jiro Yamaji also attended the event.
The company also donated text books for students studying at schools in Borikhamxay province.
According to the company, it has grown 330 hectares of the trees, with four hectares in Xayaboury province, 171 hectares in Vientiane province and 155 hectares in Borikhamxay province.
The company said it produced 200 tonnes of white charcoal last year and plans to increase production capacity to 500 tonnes a year over the next five years.
However, the company said that one of the main challenges is the supply of the raw materials therefore it plans to encourage Lao people to grow the trees.
Demand for white charcoal in Japan has increased rapidly over the past few years where it is used in restaurants for grilling and barbequing.
vientiane times
