VIENTIANE, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Laos is strengthening the regulation, inspection, and management of agricultural chemicals to promote food safety and support the development of a safer, more sustainable agricultural sector, the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment has said.
The ministry convened a meeting in the Lao capital of Vientiane on Tuesday to develop an action plan for inspecting agricultural chemicals and establish measures to tackle violations of related regulations, a ministry report said on Thursday.
Under the plan, a task force for agricultural chemical inspections was established in response to growing concerns over issues in the sector, including smuggling, illegal distribution, and unauthorized advertising. These problems could pose risks to farmers and consumers while affecting the reputation of Lao agricultural products.
Strengthening oversight of the import, distribution, and use of agricultural chemicals will help ensure that products on the market comply with legal and safety standards.
It will also help farmers gain access to reliable, quality agricultural inputs. Beyond improving food safety, stronger management of agricultural chemicals will support the long-term development of Laos' agricultural sector. Effective regulation of fertilizer and pesticide use can help Lao agricultural products meet higher quality standards, strengthen market confidence, and expand opportunities to access export markets with strict safety requirements.
The inspection initiative represents an important step toward promoting quality, safety, and responsible agricultural production in Laos. The program will also contribute to improved food safety, stronger producer livelihoods, greater consumer trust, and enhanced competitiveness of Lao agriculture. ■