New agreements follow a series of initiatives between the countries to improve Laos growing techniques
China will now accept longan and durian from Laos after the two countries signed new agreements as part of the recent ASEAN–China Ministerial SPS Cooperation Meeting, according to a report from local publication The Laotian Times.
On 13 November, Laos deputy minister of agriculture and environment, Kikeo Singnavong, and Zhao Zenglian, China’s deputy minister of the general customs administration, signed the new sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) protocols, which will provide a significant boost for Lao fruit producers.
Authorities told The Laotian Times the agreements would help Laos diversify its agricultural exports and enhance regional economic integration. They also emphasised the importance of adhering to China’s quality and safety standards.
The agreements follow a series of agricultural initiatives between the countries, including a 25-year project aimed at improving cultivation techniques, increasing yields, reducing costs, and enhancing competitiveness within the Laos fruit industry. Notably, these efforts support Laos’ goal of exporting 400 tonnes of premium durian to China by 2026.
In addition to finalising the new agreements, The Laotian Times reported that officials also discussed ways to further boost agricultural trade and streamline procedures for market access.
