The success of the new rice varieties reflects not only advances in plant breeding but also the active role of farming communities in shaping agricultural innovation. Farmers have worked closely with researchers to evaluate and select rice varieties under local conditions, identifying traits that matter most in the field, such as higher yields, earlier maturity and resilience to environmental stresses.

"Rather than simply receiving new materials, farmers were directly involved in selecting and testing varieties in their own environments," said Siviengkhek Phommalath, Director of the Rice and Cash Crop Research Center of the National Agriculture and Forestry Research Institute. "This helped ensure that the varieties responded to local needs and encouraged wider adoption by farming communities."

Farmers have continued to play a key role since the varieties were released. Since 2022, farmer groups have led the multiplication and distribution of seed, helping improved rice varieties reach communities across the country.

In Saphart village in Wapi district, Salavanh province, a group of 19 farmers took the lead in producing and marketing seed of the newly released Saphart 1 variety, producing and selling 9.5 tonnes during the 2026 season. Uptake has been rapid. In Wapi district alone, more than 300 farmers now grow Saphart 1 for household consumption and local markets. The variety covers around 350 hectares in the dry season and is expected to reach 450 hectares in the wet season.

Seed produced by the farmer group has since reached neighbouring districts across Salavanh province, strengthening local systems as it spreads.

Women have been among the driving forces behind this expansion. Through community-based seed production groups, they have played a key role in multiplying, distributing and promoting improved rice seed, combining local knowledge with scientific innovation to ensure new varieties deliver tangible benefits to households across the province.