The Philippines and Lao PDR have agreed to revitalize collaboration on agriculture.
Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. held a bilateral meeting with Lao PDR’s Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, Linkham Douangsavanh at the World Food Forum in Rome, Italy on October 14 where they discussed the possibility of signing a memorandum of understanding (MOU) aimed at enhancing food security and promoting sustainable agricultural development.
“The proposed agreement marks a significant step forward in strengthening agricultural cooperation with our Asean partner, Lao PDR… It will provide a framework for collaboration on a wide range of agricultural issues,” said Tiu Laurel, in a statement yesterday.
The DA said signing of the MOU is targeted for next year.
The MOU is proposed to outline cooperation initiatives on technology and knowledge sharing by establishing a joint genetic bank for rice development to promote innovation in crop cultivation. It will also provide for the conduct of joint efforts that will tackle agricultural challenges through shared research initiatives.
The DA said the partnership is expected to include measures that will bolster the overall food security of the Asean region and enhance value chains for various agricultural products, including rice, corn, coffee, fruit trees, tea, livestock and fisheries.
The two countries will also share best practices for efficient water usage in agriculture.
The DA said it eyes to develop strategies that will address the impacts of climate change on agricultural productivity; prioritize effective pest control practices to safeguard crops; and facilitate trade in agricultural products like rice, sugarcane and coffee.
Based on data collated by the Observatory of Economic Complexity, as of end-2022, the most purchased commodity of the Philippines from Lao PDR is potassic fertilizers worth $6.46 million.
