The survey commenced with a meeting with the SEAFDEC Alternate Council Director for Lao PDR, Mr. Akhane Phomsouvanh, and his staff at the Office of the Department of Livestock and Fisheries in Vientiane. Discussions highlighted the vital role of small-scale fisheries in Southeast Asia, including Lao PDR, in contributing to food security, nutrition, and poverty alleviation, while supporting both local and national economies. However, inland fisheries are highly dependent on ecosystem health and seasonal conditions, making fishing communities—often located in remote areas—particularly vulnerable to low incomes, limited market access, and inadequate essential services such as healthcare and education.
During the mission, and in collaboration with local fisheries officers, the team conducted community analyses and surveys to collect baseline data and assess the current conditions, needs, and challenges of the fishing communities. Fifty fishers and fish processors were interviewed using a structured questionnaire. The collected responses will be analyzed, and the findings will form part of a comprehensive needs assessment report for small-scale inland fisheries communities. This report will serve as a reference for developing future strategies aimed at sustainable fisheries management and livelihood improvement.