Phousan tea is produced through a range of farming systems in Xiengkhouang Province, Lao PDR, including agroforestry-based approaches that integrate tea within more diversified landscapes. Conducted between 2023 and 2025, this research examines how these production systems relate to market opportunities and consumer demand. The study focuses particularly on Pek district while extending its analysis of tea purchasing and consumption to consumers in Xiengkhouang Province and Vientiane Capital.

The research addresses three complementary dimensions: the diversity of Phousan tea farming systems; market opportunities for tea produced through sustainable practices, particularly agroforestry; and consumer purchasing and consumption patterns. By considering production and markets together, the analysis explores how diversified market channels may support farming systems that combine agricultural production with agroforestry. It also provides evidence on market access and income opportunities associated with Phousan tea, while recognizing that consumer preferences are an important part of developing viable value chains.

Published in 2025, the research was conducted by Stéphane Guéneau and Michaël Bruckert of CIRAD and Lytoua Chialue and Fue Yang of the Faculty of Agriculture, National University of Lao PDR. The work involves NUoL, PAFO/MAE Lao PDR, CIRAD and MALICA, bringing together agricultural, market and consumer perspectives to examine the conditions for developing sustainable Phousan tea production and marketing.