Overview
This project aims to identify the opportunities and research needed to increase the productivity, output, and integration of cattle and buffalo from smallholder and commercial livestock systems in Laos and Cambodia to rapidly developing formal export markets.
ACIAR has funded cattle research in Cambodia and Laos since the early 2000s. Despite this significant investment, the research outcomes have not been reflected in more significant development initiatives or government programs, which is a potential wasted opportunity for research impact. Furthermore, in the case of both countries, the Greater Mekong Subregion, beef sector and markets have changed dramatically in the last 5 years. These dramatic changes require an assessment of where existing research is relevant and what new research is needed.
The project will improve understanding about the rapidly evolving situation in northern Laos and regional beef markets, trade and investment, and the implications this has on smallholder farmers. The research activity will identify areas where previous ACIAR-supported research could be valuable and future research areas in broader livestock investments.
Expected outcomes
- Synthesizing key learnings, insights, and gaps from recent ACIAR cattle research in Cambodia, Laos, and surrounding Mekong countries.
- Identifying the challenges and opportunities for increasing smallholder competitiveness, production, and participation in more formal and commercially oriented cattle and buffalo value chains and markets.
- Identifying priority needs, opportunities, and approaches for future investment in beef cattle research, capability development and technical collaboration in Laos and Cambodia.
