November 20, 2025 | The Laotian Times |
Laos and China strengthened agricultural cooperation during high-level talks in Chongqing on 13 November, held alongside the 9th ASEAN–China Ministerial SPS Cooperation Meeting. A key outcome was the signing of a new sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) protocol allowing Lao longan exports to China, making it the 40th Lao product approved for the Chinese market. The two sides also agreed to open China’s market to Lao durian under SPS conditions, creating new opportunities for Lao fruit producers.
The agreements aim to help Laos diversify agricultural exports, deepen regional economic integration, and expand access to the Chinese market. Officials stressed that Lao exporters must strictly comply with China’s quality and food safety standards to fully benefit from these openings.
Laos and China already cooperate on long-term agricultural initiatives, including a 25-year project to improve cultivation techniques, increase yields, reduce costs, and boost competitiveness. These efforts support Laos’ target of exporting 400 tons of premium durian to China by 2026.
Discussions also covered further trade facilitation and market access, with 39 SPS protocols currently in force and negotiations continuing for additional products such as frozen and cooked beef.
