Deputy Director General of the Department of Energy at the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, Mr Sanya SomvicPrime Minister Sonexay Siphandone (centre) learns about progress in the agriculture and forestry sectors over the past 60 years.

Agri-forestry exports reach US$1.6 billion as ministry marks 60th anniversary

The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment marked 60 years of transformation on Monday, announcing that agricultural exports reached a milestone value of approximately US$1.6 billion in 2025.
Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone attended the event, which highlighted the sector’s evolution from traditional subsistence farming into a modern, market-oriented industrial system that now contributes roughly 19 percent to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product.
Minister of Agriculture and Environment Dr Linkham Douangsavanh reported that the sector has maintained an average annual growth rate of 2.75 percent over the last five years, ensuring national food security with staple crop production averaging 6.75 million tonnes annually.
This growth reflects a structural shift toward group-based production models, cooperatives, and increased private enterprise participation.
Modern mechanisation and advanced technologies have replaced traditional methods, allowing producers to transition to industrial-scale farming.
Beyond crop production, the ministry highlighted significant progress in forestry management, where conservation efforts are now being integrated with nature-based tourism and pilot initiatives for carbon credit trading.
Commercial tree planting in degraded forest areas has also expanded, serving the dual purpose of environmental restoration and generating vital income for rural communities.
To commemorate these six decades of development, the ministry has published a comprehensive history titled “60 Years of History and Achievements of the Agriculture and Forestry Sector (1965–2025),” which documents the major reforms that have improved infrastructure and living conditions for all ethnic groups.
Looking ahead, the ministry has adopted a Development Plan for 2026-2030 designed to ensure sustainable growth through seven core programmes.
These priorities include enhancing food security and nutrition, promoting commodity processing, strengthening forest management, and advancing poverty reduction.

By Times Reporters
(Latest Update December 30, 2025)