The state-owned Dak Lak Rubber Company plans to grow 2,800 ha of rubber trees in southern Lao Champasak and Salavan provinces in this year's rainy season.

The company will also plant nearly 200 ha of cashews and 150 ha of coffee trees in southern Laos.

As part of the in implementation of the economic cooperation agreement between Vietnam and Laos, the company launched a US $30 million project to grow 10,000 ha of rubber trees in Champasak, Salavan and Atopu provinces.

Between 2005-2006, the company planted 3,600 ha of rubber trees and 200 ha of cashews in three farms in these provinces.

Besides, it also helped farmers cultivate alternative industrial trees, such as maize and cassavas, to raise income.

The company is striving to fulfill its target of growing 10,000 ha of rubber trees in Lao provinces by 2009, one year earlier than scheduled. (VNA)