Green forest fire notification in Laos, Thailand

Supply-chain Risk Briefing

1. Summary

Wildfires occurred in the Laos-Thailand border region for approximately 12 days from April 2-13. Classified as medium grade by GDACS, these wildfires show typical patterns of Southeast Asia's dry season and are forming extensive impact zones crossing both countries' borders.

2. Supply-chain impact

• Agricultural production disruption: Major crop cultivation areas for rice, rubber, and cassava in the Laos-Thailand border region are exposed to fire and smoke damage, raising concerns of reduced harvest yields
• Overland logistics delays: Major road networks connecting Laos and Thailand face potential traffic restrictions due to firefighting operations and visibility issues from smoke
• Manufacturing production halts: Textile and electronic component manufacturing facilities near both countries' borders face risks of temporary shutdowns due to deteriorating air quality
• Tourism and service industry impact: Expected decline in tourists due to reduced accessibility to Mekong River tourism areas and air pollution
• Power supply instability: Concerns over potential transmission line damage from wildfires and disruption to fuel supply chains for thermal power plants

3. Watch points

• Firefighting completion timing: Need to track whether complete extinguishing occurs before rainy season begins and possibility of re-ignition
• Border clearance normalization: Monitor resumption schedule of major Laos-Thailand border checkpoints and speed of logistics recovery