Mekong Riverweed launched as a sustainable product linking tradition, innovation, and livelihoods

Luang Prabang, Lao PDR, 7 November 2025 - The Mekong River Commission (MRC) Secretariat, together with the Lao National Mekong Committee Secretariat and Gulf Energy Development, on 5 November launched the Mekong Riverweed Product, a pioneering initiative set to transform rural livelihoods in Luang Prabang through sustainable cultivation and modern market access.

The launch event, held in the ancient and scenic Muang Kham Village outside Luang Prabang, marked a significant milestone for community climate adaptation. By applying innovative, eco-friendly techniques to cultivate and process the traditional delicacy, the project aims to boost rural incomes while ensuring the long-term community resilience to climate impacts.

The Riverweed product, known locally as Khai Paen, is a nutrient-rich river algae traditionally harvested and prepared by communities along the Mekong. The new project modernises its production, ensuring higher quality, extended shelf life, and a direct connection for farmers to broader regional and international markets.

Supported by the Gulf Energy Development, the MRC Secretariat collaborates with Thailand Institute of Scientific and Technological Research (TISTR) to develop and improve the processing, packaging, and marketing of riverweed. Through this partnership, local farmers will receive hand-on training in modern cultivation and drying techniques. This initiative also introduces eco-friendly production methods that preserve the natural flavour and nutrients of riverweed while reducing waste and environmental impact.

"This collaborative project can be said to be a continuation of the village wisdom of local communities with basic production to a modern production through innovation while maintaining its uniqueness and still meeting current market needs, which is consistent with the Development Plan of the Agriculture and Environment Sector 2026-2030, especially the work on food-nutrition security and the production-processing program," His Excellency Dr. Linkham Douangsavanh, Minister of Agriculture and Environment of Lao PDR, said.

The core of the initiative is its commitment to climate adaptation and resilience. It champions the riverweed as a climate-resilient, sustainable product that leverages local knowledge and responsible resource use. The launch featured presentations on the product's improved quality standards and a visit to the production site, allowing dignitaries and partners to see the direct community impact.

"This Riverweed project is a proud example of MRC's support to community development through innovation and partnership. It is collaborative, climate-smart, and community-driven. By giving local farmers the tools and training to connect their sustainable harvest to the global market, we are building economic resilience from the grassroots and honouring the deep cultural linkage between the river and its inhabitants," said Ms Busadee Santipitaks, the CEO of the MRC Secretariat.

Her Excellency Ms Siliphone Souphanthong, Vice Governor of Luang Prabang province, emphasised that empowering communities with science, innovation, and partnership allows this project to enhance local livelihoods and build resilience against challenges, demonstrating that such support is key for communities to thrive and lead in sustainable development.

"As the local government, we are fully committed to continuing our support for this initiative. We will work closely with our partners to scale up this project to other communities, promote further research and development, and diversify riverweed-based products to increase value, sustainability, and opportunity for all," H.E. Ms Siliphone said.

Reflecting on this partnership, Mr. Amorn Iamsripong, a representative from Gulf Energy Development said, "Throughout our work, Gulf has closely collaborated with government agencies and local communities to ensure every step respects their traditions and lifestyles. We believe cooperation and trust are the foundation of lasting development."

About the Mekong River Commission

The MRC is an intergovernmental organisation established in 1995 to boost regional dialogue and cooperation in the Lower Mekong River Basin. Based on the Mekong Agreement among Cambodia, Lao PDR, Thailand, and Viet Nam, the MRC serves as both a regional platform for water diplomacy and a knowledge hub - to manage water resources and support sustainable development of the region.

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For more information, please contact:

Ms. MAO Chandaly Communications Officer for Press Mekong River Commission Secretariat Email: [email protected]