Experience of Agribusiness Investment in Lao PDR

WEBSITE INTRODUCTION: This document presents the experiences of two investors, Stora Enso Laos and Outspan Bolovens Limited, who have invested in agribusiness plantations (eucalyptus and coffee respectively) in the south of Lao PDR. It discusses the lessons learned on four key topics related to responsible investment: (1) land acquisition, (2) compensation and benefit sharing, (3) community engagement, and (4) grievance mechanisms. They are the result of a week-long multi-stakeholder engagement and dialogue, involving the companies themselves, government, civil society organisations and the communities concerned. The case studies provide key ‘take home messages’ for potential and existing land-based investors in Laos, NGOs and government alike.