BACKGROUND
Agriculture remains an economic pillar in the Mekong region. However, the sector faces persistent
challenges on low productivity, fragmented supply chains, limited access to modern technologies, and increasing vulnerability to climate change. Outdated farming practices, post-harvest losses, and inefficient market linkages further constrain economic growth and food security.
Smart agriculture offers high potential but adoption remains limited, highlighting the need for structured capacity-building, improved public-private collaboration, and sustainable policy integration.
Mekong CONNECT will build on the success of the previous initiative, Sustainable and Smart Agricultural Supply Chain Development in Mekong Countries, and will focus on smart technology adoption and Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs).
PROJECT DURATION: March 2025 to February 2028
LOCATION
Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Thailand & Viet Nam (CLMTV), in partnership with the Republic of
Korea
GOAL & OBJECTIVES
Enhance the productivity, resilience, and sustainability of agricultural supply chains in the Mekong region by accelerating the adoption of smart technologies and strengthening PPPs
- Strengthen PPPs to drive smart technology adoption and knowledge transfer in both national and regional levels
- Build the capacity of government agencies and academic institutions to effectively support farmers and agribusinesses in integrating smart technologies into their operations
- Pilot smart technologies in Cambodia and Lao PDR, with mentorship from Thailand and Viet Nam
STRATEGIES & OUTCOMES
PPP Development
- Regional & National Workshops
- Stocktaking
Outcome 1: Enhanced collaboration between private sector stakeholders, government agencies, and educational institutions in supporting smart technology adoption
Capacity Building
- Regional Training Programs
Outcome 2: Improved capacity of local institutions to provide technical assistance and support for smart technology adoption
Technology Pilot
- National Workshops
- Technology installation
- Coaching
- Mekong CONNECT Digest
Outcome 3: Initial pilots of smart farming technologies in Cambodia and Lao PDR are demonstrating potential to improve agricultural productivity and sustainability
