Officials join LBC representatives and farmers for a group photo during the annual meeting.

LBC promotes sustainable rice farming techniques 

Lao Brewery Co., Ltd. (LBC) has stepped up its support for sustainable agriculture by holding the annual farmer group meeting under its Sustainable Rice Farming Project, showcasing progress in Good Agricultural Practice (GAP) and Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) techniques.
​The annual meeting took place on September 8 at Lao Brewery Co., Ltd. Head Offices. It was chaired by LBC CA, CSR and Sustainability Director, Mr Sithixay Kettavong, alongside the Director of the Clean Agriculture Centre (CAC), Dr Linglong Sithixay, and the Director of the Rice and Cash Crop

Farmers participate in the annual Sustainable Rice Farming Project meeting.

Research Centre (RCCRC), Dr Siviengkhek Phommalath, both representing the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry. 
Project farmers, agricultural cooperatives, business partners, LBC employees, and media representatives also attended the event.
​Participants reviewed project progress and discussed future development plans. Key topics included forming organised farmer groups, encouraging organic cultivation, and embedding Good Agricultural Practice (GAP) alongside Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) techniques across project farming operations.
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Director of the Clean Agriculture Centre, Mr Linglong Sithixay (right), presents a certificate of recognition to an outstanding farmer.

A core highlight was the promotion of AWD techniques—a water management method where paddy fields are intermittently flooded and allowed to dry naturally before re-irrigation. This process significantly cuts water and energy usage required for pumping, improves soil aeration, and minimises anaerobic conditions responsible for greenhouse gas emissions in paddy fields.
​Technical experts from the RCCRC highlighted that AWD has the potential to reduce water consumption by up to 30 percent and lower greenhouse gas emissions by up to 50 percent. Trial results in Laos further demonstrated that AWD maintains quality standards and boosts crop yields compared to traditional continuous flooding methods.
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Alongside water-saving techniques, the project places strong emphasis on GAP standards to improve product quality and safety across the entire supply chain. This encompasses land preparation, seed selection, fertilisation and soil restoration, water management, harvesting, storage, transport, and full traceability. These measures ensure high-standard raw materials for beer production, providing safety and confidence for consumers.
​The collaborative initiative outlines clear roles for all stakeholders. Lao Brewery Co., Ltd. acts as the central coordinator, providing training, technical support, quality control, and guaranteed crop purchasing while assisting farmers in transitioning into modern commercial suppliers. 
Participating farmers commit to adhering to GAP and AWD standards to supply quality raw rice. Meanwhile, government agencies and technical units supply high-grade rice seeds, oversee irrigation infrastructure, offer technical guidance, and ensure regulatory compliance.
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Agricultural officials and farmers collect samples of the AWD method.

Speaking at the event, Mr Sithixay explained that LBC established the Sustainable Rice Farming Project in alignment with the company’s long-term sustainability policies. 
Under these targets, at least 50 percent of the agricultural raw materials used in beer production must meet GAP or organic standards and be produced through environmentally friendly methods by 2032. Looking further ahead to 2040, the company aims to transition 100 percent of its raw materials to GAP or organic standards, requiring farmers to supply up to 20,000 tonnes of polished white rice annually.
​Representing participating growers, the leader of the Nongphong Farmer Group, Mr Bounsong Vongpaseuth, noted that joining the LBC Sustainable Rice Farming Project has delivered clear improvements in both farming methods and local livelihoods.
​"We have gained valuable knowledge from participating in this project, particularly regarding improved cultivation techniques, the precise timing for organic fertiliser application, and effective pest management. Because the company guarantees purchasing our entire harvest at a set price, we have seen a significant positive impact on our household income," Mr Bounkong said.
​The meeting also provided an open forum for farmers and partner agencies to address operational challenges, exchange practical feedback, and co-design strategies for upcoming farming seasons to support future expansion.
​LBC’s Sustainable Rice Farming Project forms part of its broader strategy to enhance agricultural raw material efficiency, mitigate environmental impact, and foster sustainable multi-stakeholder partnerships between business, local communities, and government authorities. 
By integrating GAP and AWD practices, the project paves the way toward long-term regenerative agriculture in line with the Carlsberg Group’s Brewing Tomorrow initiative, driving commercial growth alongside community and environmental stewardship.

By Advertorial Desk
 (Latest Update September 11, 2026)