Land-based cooperation for alternative livelihoods in Laos: Case studies of Chinese agricultural companies

Jin, Yan; Wang, Jinmin; Wu, Bin; Zhong, Shuru; Feng, Lu; Si, Zhenzhong

Abstract

The eradication of illicit drug crops in developing countries through international agricultural cooperation in alternative livelihoods is a new mode of clean production. This paper examines the market-oriented alternative livelihood (AL) model implemented by Chinese agricultural companies in Laos, focusing on land-based cooperation between these companies, local authorities, and communities. It aims to reveal the conditions for successful land-based cooperation and mutual trust building with local communities and government agencies. Three Chinese companies involved in alternative cultivation projects in Laos are selected as case studies. The findings highlight the market-oriented AL model as a beneficial approach to transition from illicit crop cultivation to clean production. The study emphasizes the importance of land-based cooperation and trust building for the sustainable operation of market-oriented alternative livelihoods. Challenges faced by the companies include managing international market risks and developing locally-led technical and management teams. The research underscores the need for inclusive innovation in land-based cooperation and alternative livelihoods in the Global South. It calls for further exploration of innovative approaches to inclusive cooperation, local empowerment, and capacity building. The study contributes to understanding the potential of international agricultural cooperation in promoting alternative livelihoods and sustainable development in illicit crop-growing regions.

Citation

Jin, Y., Wang, J., Wu, B., Zhong, S., Feng, L., & Si, Z. (2024). Land-based cooperation for alternative livelihoods in Laos: Case studies of Chinese agricultural companies. Journal of Cleaner Production, 448, Article 141615. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2024.141615

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Feb 28, 2024
• Online Publication Date: Mar 10, 2024
• Publication Date: Apr 5, 2024
• Deposit Date: Mar 28, 2024
• Publicly Available Date: Mar 11, 2025
• Journal: Journal of Cleaner Production
• Print ISSN: 0959-6526
• Electronic ISSN: 1879-1786
• Publisher: Elsevier
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 448
• Article Number: 141615
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2024.141615
• Keywords: International agricultural investment, alternative livelihoods, illicit crops cultivation, land-based cooperation, China, Laos
• Public URL: https://nottingham-repository.worktribe.com/output/31899329