Representatives of Lao Brewery Co., Ltd. pose for a photo before spraying organic foliar fertiliser on an organic rice field.

LBC’s sustainable rice farming project introduces new technology to boost organic rice production

Lao Brewery Company (LBC) has reached a significant milestone in its Sustainable Rice Farming Project by incorporating drone technology to apply organic foliar fertiliser. This initiative aims to improve both the yield and quality of organic rice.

Head of LBC’s Sustainable Rice Farming Project and CA, CSR & Sustainability Director, Mr Sithixay Ketthavong, pours the organic foliar fertiliser into the drone tank.

Members of the media were invited to a 15-hectare organic rice plantation in Makhiew village, Pakngum district, Vientiane, where LBC demonstrated the innovative use of drones.
For the first time in the project, drones are being used to spray organic foliar fertiliser on young rice seedlings. The fertiliser will be applied five times throughout the cultivation process, from planting to harvest, to ensure improved yields and enhanced rice quality.

A drone sprays fertiliser on rice seedlings.

Speaking at the site visit, LBC’s Corporate Affairs & ESG Manager, Mr Zaeth Khamnon, underscored the importance of this technological advancement.
“By introducing drone technology to spray organic foliar fertiliser, we are not only supporting sustainable farming practices but also demonstrating our commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship,” he said.

Mr Zaeth Khamnon discusses plans for LBC’s Sustainable Rice Farming Project.

He added, “This technology will reduce time and labour, as a hectare site will need only 15 minutes for foliar spraying.”
To ensure the quality of the organic foliar fertiliser, LBC are cooperating with the Vientiane Agriculture and Forestry Department to check the nutrients for the plants.

Young rice seedlings growing in an organic rice plot in Makhiew village, Pakngum district, Vientiane.

The Sustainable Rice Farming Project, a core initiative in LBC’s efforts to advance sustainable agriculture, has seen remarkable success since its inception. In 2024, the project produced over 600 tonnes of paddy which, once processed, contributed 360 tonnes of essential ingredients for Beerlao products.
The project has expanded from its initial 100 hectares to 340 hectares, benefiting more than 200 farming families. It now spans three districts in Vientiane – Hadxaifong, Xaythany and Pakngum – and Meuangfeuang district in Vientiane province, with 15 hectares dedicated to organic farming.
For the 2024-25 dry season, LBC has allocated 2 billion kip to procure high-quality rice seeds and increase the cultivated area to 550 hectares, with plans to exceed 600 hectares.
By 2025, the project aims to cover 1,000 hectares nationwide, contributing to LBC’s annual requirement of 20,000 tonnes of white rice.
In alignment with its “Together Towards Zero & Beyond” (TTZAB) initiative, LBC is implementing Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), Organic Agriculture (OA), and plans to integrate Regenerative Agricultural Practices. These approaches aim to restore soil health, enhance biodiversity, and minimise environmental impacts.
The adoption of drone technology signifies a forward-thinking approach to organic rice farming, enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and productivity. This initiative also strengthens LBC’s collaboration with local farmers, offering guaranteed prices, improved yields, and health benefits while advancing sustainable agriculture across Laos.
By integrating innovation and sustainability, LBC continues to lead the way in creating a greener and more sustainable future for farming and the environment in Laos.

By Advertorial Desk
 (Latest Update January 20, 2025)