Women display young coffee tree plants they have successfully germinated.

Coffee germination brings new hope to Viengkham farmers

A new wave of sustainable coffee cultivation has begun in Viengkham district, Luang Prabang province, where farmers are germinating Arabica coffee seeds for the first time with support from Wonders International, the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), and the KRX Happy Foundation.
The initiative is part of a long-term venture aimed at strengthening community-based coffee production, improving farmers’ livelihoods, and protecting forest ecosystems in northern Laos.
Wonders International, a non-governmental organisation based in the Republic of Korea, works to promote sustainable coffee farming through technical training, infrastructure improvement, and community empowerment.
The project aims to enhance the coffee value chain by improving seedling quality, boosting production efficiency, and promoting environmentally friendly farming practices.
In early 2025, Arabica coffee seeds were distributed to farmers in Mokvat village, Viengkham district, to initiate community-led germination. Farmers received hands-on training on seed germination, soil preparation, and nursery management.
Although this was their first attempt, farmers showed strong determination and teamwork despite early challenges caused by local soil conditions and seasonal temperatures.
Their perseverance paid off, resulting in the successful germination of 24,389 coffee seedlings during the first year.
These seedlings have since been transplanted into the farmers’ coffee plots, marking a significant milestone towards self-sufficiency and sustainable coffee production in the community.
Beyond providing technical and material support, the project encourages farmers to take a leading role in coffee cultivation by empowering them with knowledge and ownership throughout the entire process.
Building on the first year’s success, farmers have begun their second round of seed germination this month.
The project continues to expand its reach by providing additional training, improving post-harvest processing, and encouraging wider participation among villages in Viengkham district.
A major focus going forward is to connect farmers to stable and fair markets, ensuring sustainable income and long-term benefits for rural communities.
With renewed confidence and practical experience, farmers in Viengkham are optimistic about another productive coffee season and contributing to the growing reputation of high-quality Lao coffee.
The success of community-led coffee germination in Viengkham represents more than an agricultural milestone; it signals a sustainable path towards improved livelihoods and forest conservation.
By combining knowledge, cooperation and innovation, local farmers are strengthening the foundations for a thriving, environmentally friendly coffee industry in northern Laos.

By Advertorial Desk
(Latest Update October 23, 2025)