NewsLao PDR takes stock of its bamboo resources
INBAR and FAO met with national authorities to lay the groundwork for a national bamboo resource assessment.
From 26 to 28 May 2026, the seminar on “Bamboo Resources Assessment to strengthen the bamboo sector in Lao PDR” was successfully held in Vientiane, Lao PDR. The event was co-organized by the International Bamboo and Rattan Organization (INBAR), the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), and the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry of Lao PDR. Ms. Li Lan, Deputy Director General of INBAR, and Dr. Thoumthone Vongvisouk, Deputy Director General of the Department of Forestry under the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry of Lao PDR, attended the opening ceremony and delivered remarks.
Lao PDR is endowed with abundant natural bamboo resources. Accurate resource mapping is essential for industrial development. The seminar focused on bamboo resource surveying, data collection and technological applications. Participants engaged in in-depth discussions and technical exchange on core topics including remote sensing mapping, field surveys, database construction and resource assessment. The event aimed to help Lao PDR obtain a clear picture of its bamboo resources and support the development of a sustainable industry plan. These efforts are expected to create more jobs, drive economic growth and promote the diversified development of rural economies.
As part of the seminar, a one-day field survey was conducted in Sana Kham District, Vientiane Province, where participants carried out technical demonstrations and field investigations.
Looking ahead, INBAR and FAO will strengthen their strategic partnership to jointly support Lao PDR in harnessing bamboo and rattan resources, helping farmers increase incomes and improve livelihoods. Based on the Global Action Plan of the Bamboo as a Substitute for Plastic (BASP) Initiative, the two organizations will actively promote South-South technical exchanges and practical cooperation for shared benefit.
