Costa’s international berry operations have reached another significant milestone after successfully registering patents for five new blueberry varieties in Laos.
This is the first official registration of a new plant variety in Laos and was marked at a Certificate Handover Ceremony at the Ministry of Industry and Commerce on September 9.
Attending the event were Mr Kikeo Singnavong, Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, and Mr Manothong Vongxay, the Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Industry and Commerce.
The Certificates of Registration were presented to Costa Berry Laos General Manager Mr Martin Glenister, by Director General of the Department of Intellectual Property Mr Xaysomphet Norasingh.
Mr Xaysomphet highlighted that the certificates were a testament to the hard work and achievements of researchers, analysts, and plant breeders in advancing Laos’ socio-economic development.
In March this year, Costa officially launched its blueberry farm in Paksong, on the Bolaven Plateau in Laos. The initial farm is 17 hectares, with plans to expand to 200 hectares over the next five years.
Costa is recognised as both a global leading blueberry grower and developer of unique blueberry varieties, through its blueberry variety improvement program, which has now been successfully operating for 30 years.
Costa has been able to develop blueberry varieties and agronomic practices that are suitable for growing blueberries in the southern and northern hemisphere, including in temperate and sub-tropical climates, which can be grown under protective cover and out of the soil in substrate.
Costa varieties are licenced in regions including North and South America, Africa, Asia and Australia.
Mr Xaysomphet said its recognition in Laos not only affirms legal rights but also encourages researchers and breeders to acknowledge the significance of registering new plant varieties, inspiring them to continue producing innovative research in the future.
“This registration will enhance production quality, increase income for rights holders, and contribute to national food security,” he said.
Around 35 other officials also attended, along with Amphon Viphongxay, Costa Berry Laos HR Manager.