Floods, water shortages cause cut in rice harvest: minister
VIENTIANE (Vientiane Times/ANN) – The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry yesterday defended its decision to lower the rice production target for 2019, saying it was unavoidable because of the severe flooding that had occurred this year and last.
At the same time, water shortages are currently affecting the north of Laos.
Addressing enquiries from National Assembly members, Minister of Agriculture and Forestry Dr Lien Thikeo said widespread flooding combined with water supply problems had forced the ministry to lower the rice production target.
Ekaphone Phouthonesy
