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Lao Trade and Investment in Natural Resource Sector
Lao PDR’s agricultural and natural resource (ANR) sector is undergoing an unprecedented transformation. Moreover, the abundance of natural resources and favorable policy and regulatory environment under the Government’s regional and global commitments are facilitating the sector’s transition to a modern commercial-based system offering value addition gains to producers. For the full benefits to be achieved, however, agriculture must be made more productive so as to generate widespread sustainable income and employment growth, and also improvements must occur in the governance and management of the ANR sector and its natural resource base. The present study focuses on trade and investment related-activities of the Government’s ANR Sector Development Program. It aims to contribute to the sector’s growth and development through improved food security, accelerated poverty reduction, and better environmental conservation. The immediate objectives are to promote modernization of the sector by (i) supporting the preparation of land-use master plans for southern provinces, (ii) strengthening the capacity of national and provincial government agencies, and (iii) funding specific investments in the sector.