Dr. Choomjet Karnjanakesorn, General Manager of the APTERR Secretariat, together with Mr. Aro Kasakawa, Japanese Expert and the APTERR staff, visited southern Lao PDR during 26-28 January 2026 to participate in and monitor in the distribution of emergency rice assistance contributed by the People’s Republic of China (P.R. China), Japan and the Republic of Korea to support people affected by severe floods and landslides.
During the three-day visit to Khammouan, Savannakhet and Champasak provinces, the APTERR delegation was accompanied by the representatives of the Lao government, led by Mr. Vongkham Phanthanouvong, Director General of the Department of Social Welfare, Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare (MOLSW). The delegation also included Mrs. Saysamone Vongkhamsouk, Deputy Director of the ASEAN and Regional Cooperation Division, Department of Planning and Cooperation, Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (MAE), along with the provincial authorities. The joint efforts ensure that the rice assistance reached those most in need.
This rice distribution forms part of APTERR’s nationwide release of 2,750 MT of rice to Lao PDR, comprising 350 MT from P.R. China, 150 MT from Japan and 2,250 MT from Korea, to help those affected meet their immediate food needs and restore a sense of stability during a difficult period. Under this allocation, Khammoun and Savannakhet provinces each receive 150 MT rice, while Champasak province received 100 MT of rice assistance.
In 2025, Lao PDR experienced a series of tropical cyclones, including Tropical Storm Matmo, which caused extensive damage to livelihoods and agricultural areas, which are the primary source of food and income for many rural households. For affected communities, the APTERR rice assistance provides note only essential food support but also reassurance that the regional partners stand in solidarity with them during time of crisis.
Dr. Choomjet reaffirmed APTERR’s commitment to supporting its members through timely rice assistance during emergencies. He also underscored the importance of early warning systems in strengthening preparedness, enabling early response, and minimising losses from future disasters.
