‘Betagro’ Launches First Feed Mill in Lao PDR with 650 Million THB Investment

Tuesday 12 November 2024 – Betagro Public Company Limited (“BTG”) has inaugurated its first feed mill in Lao PDR, representing a strategic investment of over 650 million THB. This state-of-the-art facility integrates advanced technology in feed production and resource management, with an annual capacity of 108,000 tons. Designed to meet the growing demand, improve cost efficiency, and reduce reliance on imported feed from Thailand, the plant underscores Betagro’s commitment to improving quality of life through better food and fostering sustainable economic growth in Lao PDR.

Mr. Worrawut Vanitkulbodee, Chief Operating Officer of International Business at Betagro PCL, emphasized that Betagro—a leading international agribusiness and food company supplying both domestic markets and over 30 export countries worldwide—has been expanding its footprint across neighboring countries, including Myanmar, Lao PDR, and Cambodia. The company’s International Business focuses on increasing production capacity through cutting-edge technology to elevate efficiency, enhance product quality, and optimize cost management.

With a significant investment of 650 million THB, Betagro’s first feed mill in Lao PDR has been equipped with industry-leading technology and innovations. The facility’s official inauguration was honored by the presence of His Excellency Sypaphay Xaisongkham, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry Lao People’s Democratic Republic.

The new feed mill in Lao PDR produces high-quality feed for pigs and poultry and incorporates state-of-the-art management systems, including:

1. SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) and SAP (Systems, Applications, and Products) for precision management of raw materials and production processes.
2. A plant management system featuring a smart dashboard for real-time monitoring and reporting.
3. The Smart Premix system for feed and premix manufacturing.
4. A smart bagging system.
5. The Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) for rigorous quality control of raw materials.
6. A Jet Filter System to mitigate dust and odor, minimizing environmental impact on surrounding communities.

The investment in this facility aims to enhance production efficiency with stringent quality and safety standards. It also promotes the use of local raw materials, contributing to economic growth in Lao PDR and strengthening the country’s competitive position.

Betagro’s feed mill in Lao PDR currently operates at 70% capacity, with plans to reach full capacity—an annual output of 108,000 tons—by 2025. Production is set to increase further, reaching 144,000 tons annually by 2027, to meet rising demand for livestock and feed in Lao PDR and support exports to Betagro’s farm networks in Thailand’s mid-northeastern region.

“We believe this facility will significantly strengthen Laos’ food supply chain, addressing economic, social, and environmental goals through the highest standards of quality, safety, and sustainable production practices. Additionally, it will create more job opportunities for the local workforce, improve access to high-quality food for Lao people. This project contributes to advancing Laos’ agriculture and food industry to meet international standards, ensuring food safety for consumers and positioning Lao PDR as a future production base for exports,” said Mr. Worrawut.