Laos says it ability to inspect, control, and manage food quality is very limited, due to lack of equipment and trained personnel.
In addition, food vendors lacks the knowledge of food safety. So it cannot be readily said that the food and drinks sold by vendors are safe to eat in general.
For the fiscal year 2004-05, Laos imported over $36 milllion worth of food and beverages, excluding imports from across borders.
Listen to our Laos Today report for details.