In December 2025, the authorities confiscated wildlife products and parts totaling nearly 50 kilograms across multiple locations in Luang Prabang Province and Vientiane Capital, according to the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment.
Forest officers coordinated with Luang Prabang authorities to inspect six locations, including shops, restaurants, and other establishments suspected of illegal wildlife trade. The operation resulted in the seizure of 48.25 kilograms of wildlife products, parts, and similar items. These inspections are part of an ongoing enforcement effort that began in November 2025.
Also, authorities in Vientiane Capital inspected 11 locations, confiscating 13 different species of wildlife, and items resembling wildlife products.
All seized items are being preserved for DNA testing to confirm the species involved, while investigations and evidence collection continue.
Regional Context
The seizures come amid growing concerns over cross-border wildlife trafficking along the Mekong River.
On 11 January, Thai authorities intercepted more than 160 kilograms of ivory smuggled from Laos in Bueng Kan Province. Two suspects, aged 21 and 18, were arrested while transporting 169 kilograms of ivory tusks hidden in nine blue plastic bags across the river.
