Broom grass in Lao PDR: a market chain analysis in Luang Prabang Province

ABSTRACT Broom grass (Thysanolaena maxima) is an important non-timber forest product throughout the northern provinces of Lao PDR, playing akey role in the livelihoods of rural populations during the dry season from December to February. Nevertheless, the market chain of broom grass in Laos has been poorly documented and described. This study involved 85 semi-structured interviews with collectors or traders of broom grass in three districts of Luang Prabang province, and aims to better understand the market chain of broom grass. Collectors (smallholder farmers and their families) rely on two sources of broom grass: wild material collected from communal lands, and to alesser extent, harvested from their upland fields, with very little broom grass specifically planted as acrop. The collection, processing, and marketing of broom grass involved all members of the household, ranging in age from 4 to 80 years; however, the female members (women and girls) have adominant role, participating in all activities from collection to sale of broom grass. The study has identified key points of the market chain of broom grass where efforts may improve returns to smallholder farmers. Investments to support the development of this industry will have social, economic, and environmental benefits.