Aligning Food Systems in National Adaptation Plans and Nationally Determined Contributions--Lao PDR Case Study

Lao PDR is at a pivotal moment in its development trajectory. As a least developed country (LDC) on track to graduate by 2026, its food systems face increasing pressure from climate change, structural transformation, and resource constraints. Agriculture remains central to livelihoods, food security, and poverty reduction, employing nearly three-quarters of the population and contributing close to one-third of GDP. At the same time, the country is among the most climate-vulnerable in Southeast Asia, with rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, floods, droughts, and land degradation directly threatening agricultural productivity and rural resilience.