Mrs Keophayvanh Douangsavanh and Mr Neo Kim display signed agreements.

S. Korea supports sustainable cultivation of black ginger in Laos

In a significant move towards promoting sustainable agricultural practices and boosting the local economy, the Science and Technology Development Fund and NEOLAO Co., Ltd. have entered into a groundbreaking agreement to explore the sustainable cultivation and development of black ginger (Kaempferia parviflora) products in Laos.

Mrs Keophayvanh Douangsavanh and Mr Neo Kim shake hands after signing the agreement.

The partnership aims to harness the potential of this indigenous plant, renowned for its medicinal properties and growing market demand.
An agreement on the project, titled “Sustainable Production and Development of Black Ginger (Kaempferia parviflora) Agricultural Products in Huaphan and Oudomxay provinces, Laos”, was signed in Vientiane on January 24.
The agreement was inked by the Head of Secretariat of the Science and Technology Development Fund (FSTD), Mrs Keophayvanh Douangsavanh, and the President of NEOLAO Company, Mr Neo Kim.
Deputy Minister of Education and Sports Mr Samlane Phankhavong and representatives of line ministries attended the agreement signing ceremony.

Representatives of the two sides witness the agreement.

The partnership between FSTD and NEOLAO Company (a company run by Lao and Korean businessmen) marks the beginning of an exciting chapter for Laos in terms of agricultural innovation. As the world increasingly turns towards sustainable, natural products, Laos stands to benefit significantly from the cultivation and development of black ginger.
With continued research, the involvement of local communities, and a strong commitment to sustainable practices, this initiative has the potential to elevate Laos’ agriculture sector, provide economic benefits to rural communities, and contribute to the global demand for functional, health-boosting products.
The collaboration is a testament to the growing importance of science, technology, and sustainable development in modern agriculture, offering a promising future for both Laos and the international market.
During the agreement signing ceremony, Committee members of the Science Technology Development Fund, Associate Prof. Dr Somchanh Bounphanmy, and Managing Director of JLC and Project Coordinator, Mr Charlie Yoon, presented a project research proposal.
The research proposal aims to explore the sustainable cultivation and development of black ginger (Kaempferia parviflora) as an agricultural product in Laos. By examining environmentally friendly farming practices, efficient processing methods, and market potential, the study seeks to enhance local agriculture, boost economic growth, and promote sustainability.
Research objectives are to perform taxonomic data collection of black ginger in Laos and its extraction of phytochemicals.
To identify sustainable cultivation methods for black ginger in various regions of Laos.
To develop eco-friendly processing techniques and value-added for black ginger products that meet market demands.
To evaluate the economic feasibility and market opportunities for sustainable black ginger products in Laos and international markets.

By Advertorial Desk
 (Latest Update February 4, 2025)