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Local producers prepare for international integration
Local producers have learned more about the challenges and opportunities as they prepare for regional and international economic integration.
As part of the first ‘Made in Laos' Expo from December 9-13, a seminar was staged for local producers on Saturday morning to discuss the impacts of Asean economic integration and accession to the World Trade Organisation (WTO) on small and medium size enterprises (SMEs) in Laos.
The seminar was presided over by Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LNCCI) President Mr Kissana Vongsay, and facilitated by LNCCI Vice President Ms Chantao Pathammavong.
US Ambassador to Laos Ms Karen Stewart also spoke at the seminar, which was attended by businesspeople, producers, officials and students.
USAID was the major sponsor of the seminar, which also received support from various organisations and local companies.
Mr Kissana said regional and international economic integration will facilitate Lao producers to export more goods. “However, in order to do that, there are still challenges, which will require cooperation between the government, organisations and the producers themselves.”
“The government needs financial and technical assistance from international organisations to help local producers to be competitive in the international market.”
“This seminar is a good opportunity for local producers to learn policy, technical skills and valuable knowledge from local and foreign experts in various fields,” he said.
During the meeting, participants learned about the potential impacts of WTO accession and the Asean Economic Community on SMEs, as well as the Ministry of Commerce and Industry's SME development plan.
They also heard about standards and quality infrastructure for SME development, as well as the concept of intellectual property, from the Ministry of Science and Technology.
Participants listened to stories of success from outstanding companies in Laos, namely Daoheuang Group, Kolao Group, MMG Group, Phu Bia Mining Group, Lao French Bank and Lao Toyota.
They also learned strategies and rules for the export of Lao products to the US market, including agricultural, handicraft, silk and wood products.
In addition, participants learne d about product design from experts representing the Design Alliance Asia. Among the speakers were one of Hong Kong's most decorated and prominent designers, Freeman Lau, and one of the world's leading experts on textiles and textile design from India, Subrata Bhowmick.
Speakers from Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia and the Philippines also appeared at the seminar.
vientiane times
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