Ministry and ADB officials attend the project launch in Vientiane on Monday.

Agriculture ministry launches ADB-funded project to boost livestock trade

The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment has taken a major step towards safeguarding the livestock industry and strengthening cross-border trade with the launch of a US$42.9 million project backed by the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
The project aims to modernise animal disease control and transform livestock farming into a more competitive commercial sector.
The scheme was officially launched on February 16 by the ministry’s Department of Livestock and Fisheries.
Funded through a combination of concessional loans and grants from ADB, the project has a total budget of US$42.9 million, including a US$30 million low-interest loan.
It will be implemented over seven years, from 2025 to 2032, targeting six border provinces: Phongsaly, Oudomxay, Luang Namtha, Xayabouly, Xiengkhouang and Savannakhet.
The initiative seeks to strengthen animal health systems, reduce the risks of infectious diseases and antimicrobial resistance, and improve livestock productivity.
By enhancing disease surveillance, veterinary services, and cross-border cooperation, the project aims to protect food security and improve food safety standards in rural communities.
In addition, it will promote formal livestock trade within the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS), encouraging environmentally friendly production systems and improving value chains for animal products.
A key component of the project focuses on modernising livestock governance through digital information systems and stronger institutional capacity.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Environment, MrKikeo Singnavong stressed the importance of transparency, effective coordination, and detailed planning to ensure successful implementation.
The project is expected to help rural farmers increase their incomes, expand access to markets, and gradually reduce poverty through a more resilient and commercially oriented livestock sector.
With growing regional trade and rising demand for safe animal products, the new ADB-supported initiative marks a significant milestone in Laos’ efforts to build a stronger, safer, and more sustainable livestock industry.

By Times Reporters
(Latest Update February 18, 2026)