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For bibliographic purposes, please reference this publication as:
Cacaud, P. & Latdavong, P., (2009). Fisheries and aquaculture in the Lao PDR – a legislative
revies. FAO Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific, Bangkok, Thailand. RAP Publication 2009/05,
The role of living aquatic resources is woven into the culture, food and traditions of the Lao people from every part of the country and each of its eco-regions. Fisheries products are used for both consumption and commerce, providing people with an important source of animal protein and cash income. Effective management of both fisheries and aquaculture is therefore a critical need for the Lao PDR, especially now that increasing population pressures and environmental changes have led to a decline in fisheries resources. The Government of Lao PDR has recognized this need and requested the Department of Livestock and Fisheries to undertake the task of drafting a national legal framework for the effective management of fisheries and aquaculture. The work has taken nearly two years to complete and has been the result of a unique collaboration between the Government of Lao PDR and partner organizations, including FAO which played a coordinating role in the undertaking. This publication forms the background document to the process of developing the draft legislative framework for fisheries and aquaculture so that local communities and government agencies can collaborate towards effective management strategies and continue to benefit from the rich aquatic resources of the Lao PDR.