Empower Lao Ethnic Women This Women's Day!

In January 2026, women producers from northern Laos participated in a food exhibition in Vientiane, bringing with them Kaipen, a traditional snack made from riverweed. The event provided a valuable opportunity to introduce their products to a wider audience and explore new market opportunities beyond their local communities.

Throughout the exhibition, visitors were drawn to Kaipen’s unique texture and flavor. As they interacted directly with customers, the women gained confidence in presenting their products, explaining the production process, and sharing the cultural value behind Kaipen. The booth attracted a diverse range of visitors, including local consumers, business representatives, and international tourists.

One of the most significant outcomes of the exhibition was the opportunity to place Kaipen products in a major supermarket in Vientiane. This achievement marks an important step toward expanding market access and creating more sustainable income opportunities for women producers.

More than just a sales event, the exhibition allowed the women to see themselves as entrepreneurs and business owners capable of introducing their products to larger markets. With your continued support, they are gaining the skills, confidence, and opportunities needed to build a more independent future.

Thank you for being part of this journey.

Warm regards,

Wonders International

In December 2025, we conducted a marketing and direct-sales training for members of the Kaipen Community Business (KCB) groups from four villages in northern Laos. This training aimed to strengthen producers’ marketing knowledge and practical sales skills, enabling them to access urban and tourist markets more effectively.

Through this marketing training, women Kaipen producers were supported in expanding their sales beyond local markets to wholesale and direct-sales channels.

In particular, this session placed greater emphasis on direct sales to tourists and the development of distribution channels. Participants learned how to clearly explain the traditional value and nutritional benefits of Kaipen to visitors in Luang Prabang, as well as how to communicate their product’s value more effectively to potential customers.

By strengthening marketing capacity at the beginning of the Kaipen production season, producers are now better positioned to increase their sales volume and build a more stable source of income.

During the training, participants also engaged in role-playing exercises, taking turns acting as sellers and customers. The activity was conducted in an enjoyable atmosphere while providing meaningful practice in adapting communication styles to different types of buyers. Through this experience, participants’ confidence and sense of collaboration were significantly strengthened.

Through continued investment in marketing capacity, we will support Kaipen producers not only in improving product quality but also in entering broader markets with professionalism and confidence.

Thank you sincerely for standing with us in supporting the economic independence of Lao ethnic minority women.

Warm regards,
Wonders International