Laos Bans Thai Cattle Imports Indefinitely, Sparking Crisis for Farmers and Traders

Picture courtesy of Kaoded.

Livestock farmers and cattle traders across the northeastern region are facing serious hardship following an urgent directive by the Lao government banning the import and movement of cattle, buffaloes, goats, and sheep from Thailand. The ban, issued with immediate effect and without a stated end date, is aimed at preventing the spread of anthrax following a confirmed case in Mukdahan province.

The order was prompted by the discovery of anthrax in the carcass of a slaughtered cow in Don Tan District, Mukdahan. The incident has already resulted in one fatality and two hospitalisations, with as many as 623 individuals identified as being at high risk of exposure.

Mr. Raten Thueannoi, a local cattle and buffalo farm operator, revealed that Laotian authorities had granted a one-day exemption to allow final exports on 6 May. He warned that more than 100 animals at his facility risk being stranded if exports cannot proceed in time, creating a costly burden in terms of daily care and feed, averaging over 100 baht per animal per day, amid ongoing shortages of grass and straw.

“The situation is devastating not only for commercial operations but also for small-scale farmers,” Mr. Raten said. “Many had planned to sell livestock to cover school term expenses, but now they cannot, and prices have plummeted as well.”

Compounding the crisis is a separate issue involving the freezing of bank accounts belonging to several livestock operators since 18 April. Authorities cited an investigation into suspected cybercriminal financial activities. However, Mr. Raten questioned the prolonged delay, stating, “What sort of investigation takes over 17 days with no progress, especially when these are legitimate business funds?”

In response to the crisis, private sector groups and livestock farmers are calling on the Thai government to urgently implement concrete measures, including financial relief, diplomatic engagement with Laos, and the revitalisation of the livestock market, to prevent further damage to the grassroots economy.

Related article:

https://aseannow.com/topic/1359368-anthrax-death-reported-in-mukdahan-province/

  Adapted by Asean Now from Kaoded 2025-05-07.