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Lao Agro Industry receives British certification
The Lao Agro Industry Co., Ltd. has received British Retail Consortium (BRC) certification, which is awarded to companies that consistently produce high quality, safe products.
Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce Mr Siewsavath Savangsuksa, Lao Agro Industry President Mr Loumkham Vongsay, Director General of the Trade Promotion and Product Development Department Mr Phengsagouane Chounlamany, and representatives from related sectors attended the ceremony in Vientiane yesterday.
“Most of Laos' products, especially agricultural and forestry products, are exported as raw materials with very little value added services being performed in the country. This results in only a small amount of income being generated for local producers,” Mr Phengsagouane said.
“The food processing industry has been expanding and goods sold in local and international markets must meet the safety and quality expectations of consumers both locally and overseas.
The quality of products must be tightly controlled and continue to meet stringent consumer protection laws and the import inspection regimes of other nations, as well as satisfy the buyers,” he added .
“Obtaining international certification such as the Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) or the BRC is one of the most important endorsements for export companies because food safety, particularly for finished food products, is a big concern for consumers in developed countries.”
It is important for export companies to be knowledgeable about the export market - required standards, import regulations, and consumer behaviour - to develop or improve products that are acceptable to international buyers and can be competitive in the marketplace, Mr Phengsagouane said.
“The export industry can create more jobs, promote income distribution, increase the amount of foreign currency earned, improve the balance of trade, stabilise the local currency, and bring new technology and knowledge to the country.”
Lao Agro Industry is the first national company to receive the BRC certification and is a good example not only for the private sector but also related government sectors.
The company was set up in 1994, and its products include sweetcorn milk, sweet kernel corn, palm seeds, sliced mango in syrup, and pickled garlic.
The company currently exports to Thailand, Vietnam, United Kingdom, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Spain, Netherlands, and Russia.
BRC is the lead British trade association and represents the entire range of retailers from large multinationals and department stores to independents that sell a wide range of products in high end, rural, and virtual stores.
The BRC is known for its powerful campaigning and influence within the government and as a provider of excellent retail information.
vientiane times
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