Product Standards Research Articles

Improving gel properties of silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) myosin with flavonols: Unveiling the advantages of isorhamnetin

This study explores the impact of flavonols (kaempferol, quercetin, kaempferitrin, and isorhamnetin) on the gel properties of myosin derived from silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix). Before employing a two-stage heating process, myosin samples are pretreated with flavonols, which enhance the structural stability of myosin and aid in the dispersion of myosin molecules. These pretreatments prepare the samples for subsequent thermal processing, where flavonols facilitate myosin unfolding and enhance intermolecular aggregation, thereby improving gel strength. This process also transforms free water within the gel to bound water, significantly increasing the water-holding capacity. Both macroscopic and microscopic rheological analyses suggest that flavonols, particularly isorhamnetin, notably enhance the elasticity and viscosity of myosin during the gelation process. Further, microstructural examinations employing techniques such as small-angle X-ray scattering and micro-computed tomography demonstrate that samples treated with flavonols develop denser and more uniform gel networks. Analytical studies reveal that flavonols, especially methylated derivatives like isorhamnetin, effectively promote gelation through strengthening hydrophobic interactions, disulfide bonds, and ionic interactions among myosin molecules. This research underscores the potential of flavonols as natural additives to enhance the quality and functional properties of surimi products, thereby elevating the processing standards of aquatic products.

“Quo Vadis” The Regulation of Personal Vaporizer Policy in Indonesia

Indonesia is one of the global users of vape products, with a growing number of users driving the need for regulatory clarity regarding product legality. Previous studies have highlighted the negative health impacts of vape use; however, the vape industry has emerged as a potential driver of Indonesia's economic growth. Therefore, a multidimensional review of vape regulation in Indonesia is essential to shape policies based on various perspectives, such as the penta-helix model. This study aimed to analyze vape policies in Indonesia through a penta-helix approach. The findings indicated that vape product policies and standardization required integration among multiple stakeholders, including the Indonesian government, business actors, media, communities, and researchers. Before implementing vape-related regulations, the Indonesian government should engage stakeholders to align policies with the evolving vape industry landscape in Indonesia. Furthermore, regulatory implementation requires the support of other stakeholders to raise public awareness, ensuring compliance with the established regulations. Key areas needing public outreach include the minimum age for vape use, vape as a cessation tool for conventional cigarette users, legal marketing practices both offline and online, and penalties for non-compliance by sellers or buyers. Keywords: Penta-helix, policy, regulation, stakeholder, vape

Radiomics in radiology: What the radiologist needs to know about technical aspects and clinical impact.

Radiomics represents the science of extracting and analyzing a multitude of quantitative features from medical imaging, revealing the quantitative potential of radiologic images. This scientific review aims to provide radiologists with a comprehensive understanding of radiomics, emphasizing its principles, applications, challenges, limits, and prospects. The limitations of standardization in current scientific production are analyzed, along with possible solutions proposed by some of the referenced papers. As the continuous evolution of medical imaging is ongoing, radiologists must be aware of new perspectives to play a central role in patient management.

Enhancing the Nutritional and Bioactive Properties of Bee Pollen: A Comprehensive Review of Processing Techniques.

Bee pollen is recognized as a superfood due to its high content of nutrients and bioactive compounds. However, its bioavailability is restricted by a degradation-resistant outer layer known as exine. Physical and biotechnological techniques have recently been developed to degrade this layer and improve pollen's nutritional and functional profile. This review examines how processing methods such as fermentation, enzymatic hydrolysis, ultrasound, and drying affect pollen's chemical profile, nutrient content, and bioactive compounds. The review also considers changes in exine structure and possible synergistic effects between these methods. In addition, the challenges associated with the commercialization of processed bee pollen are examined, including issues such as product standardization, stability during storage, and market acceptance. The objective was to provide an understanding of the efficacy of these techniques, their physicochemical conditions, and their effect on the nutritional value of the pollen. The work also analyzes whether pollen transformation is necessary to maximize its benefits and offers conclusions based on the analysis of available methods, helping to determine whether pollen transformation is a valid strategy for inclusion in functional foods and its impact on consumer health. Although the literature reports that pollen transformation influences its final quality, further studies are needed to demonstrate the need for pollen exine modification, which could lead to greater market availability of pollen-based products with functional properties.

Application of the Naive Bayes Method for Determining the Quality of Crude Palm Oil (CPO) at PTPN 2 Sawit Seberang

The palm oil industry is a vital pillar of Indonesia's economy, with Crude Palm Oil (CPO) as one of its leading commodities. The quality of CPO significantly impacts its competitiveness and market price internationally. PTPN 2 Sawit Seberang, as a prominent CPO processing company, faces challenges in consistently maintaining product quality. Key factors affecting CPO quality include moisture content, free fatty acids, and impurity levels, which are difficult to manage manually. To address these challenges, this study applies the Naive Bayes method as an efficient and fast classification tool for determining CPO quality. Naive Bayes was chosen for its simplicity in probability calculations and its ability to handle data classification with reasonable accuracy. The data used in this study include moisture content, free fatty acids, and impurity levels measured between February and June 2024. The data was split into training data (80%) and testing data (20%) and analyzed using RapidMiner software. The results show that the Naive Bayes method achieved an accuracy rate of 66.6%, with precision and recall values of 50% each. Although the accuracy could be improved, the application of this method has significantly enhanced the efficiency of determining CPO quality. Thus, the implementation of the Naive Bayes method in determining CPO quality at PTPN 2 Sawit Seberang is an effective step towards improving operational efficiency, classification accuracy, and decision-making quality related to product standards, ultimately supporting the company's competitiveness in the global market.

Unraveling the pharmaceutical footprint and risks of combining different aquaculture modes and tailwater treatment systems

Aquatic environments serve as repositories for pharmaceuticals, and intensive aquaculture is becoming a significant contributor to the discharge of aquaculture wastewater. The cyclical footprint of pharmaceuticals between the aquatic environment and aquaculture has emerged as a global concern. The environmental occurrence and risk assessment of pharmaceuticals in the aquatic environment via various aquaculture modes, as well as the pharmaceutical removal efficiency in different tailwater treatment systems, have been studied through yearly investigations. Thirty-four pharmaceuticals were detected in the aquaculture environment, and the dominant pharmaceuticals were enrofloxacin, sulfamethoxazole, amantadine, and florfenicol. The highest concentration of pharmaceuticals was found in the fish pond (3826 ± 29.6 ng/L) under the greenhouse aquaculture mode, especially in the early and late aquaculture stages, and the same trend was observed in the pond aquaculture mode. The tailwater removal efficiency was greater in summer months than other months, and the treatment efficiency of the recirculating treatment system was more stable. During the aquaculture period, a low risk was observed for most pharmaceuticals, except for enrofloxacin, sulfamethoxazole, ciprofloxacin and ofloxacin, which had at medium to high risk. High-risk pharmaceuticals show a high potential to contaminate the surrounding aquatic environment and adversely affect associated biota. Reassuringly, the ecological risks of the detected pharmaceuticals can be effectively reduced after tailwater treatment. This study provides valuable data for the growing system to assess risk in aquaculture and serves as a reference to establish quality standards for aquatic products.

Проблемні питання забезпечення якості дорожньо-будівельних матеріалів та виробів в контексті особливостей їх сертифікації в Україні відповідно до ДСТУ EN ISO/IEC 17065:2019 та закону України «Про надання будівельної продукції на ринку»

Introduction. The article examines the importance of certification of road construction materials as one of the main tools for ensuring their quality. Problems. The authors emphasize that the certificate of conformity is a key document that confirms that the products meet the established regulatory requirements. Product certification, which includes laboratory tests and control of the production process, ensures the objectivity of quality assessment. The article describes in detail the stages of the certification process, from submitting an application to technical supervision of certified products. The role of certification bodies, which must be accredited by the National Accreditation Agency of Ukraine (NAAU), is emphasized separately, and their responsibility for the safety and quality of certified road construction materials is also noted. The authors also draw attention to the problem of non-compliance with the quality standards of road construction products in Ukraine, which leads to road defects, such as cracks and subsidence, which can appear already a year after the road is put into operation. In this context, it is emphasized the need to strengthen the quality control of both produced in Ukraine and imported road construction materials. The article also considers the issue of voluntary certification of road construction products, which is carried out at the initiative of the manufacturer or supplier, which is becoming more and more important in the conditions of tender procurement. At the same time, the lack of quality control of products sold through retail networks and the lack of effective quality control of imported road construction materials are emphasized.

Environmentally utilization and chemical analysis of catfish (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) industrial waste

Catfish (Pangasianodon hypothalamus) are known in Asia, specifically in Southeast Asia. Currently, this fish has been exported to almost all countries in the world. This research aimed to examine the existing conditions of the solid waste produced, analyze the chemical composition of the waste, and look for alternatives for the policy and economical use of waste in the catfish processing business. Using the survey method, data were gathered through measurement at the research location and laboratory, interviews with business owners, and field observations. Proximate analysis was conducted on pink slime meat, belly fat, bones, and fish innards. Analysis of acid number, saponification number, iodine number, and fat fatty acid was carried out on stomach fat. Meanwhile, amino acid analysis was carried out for pink slime meat. Handling catfish industrial waste has yet to be carried out properly, which causes a foul smell and disturbs the environment. The catfish industry waste’s chemical content (protein, fat, water content, carbohydrates, and fatty acids) (pink slime meat, belly fat, fish bones, and innards) is still relatively applicable. The study processed fish waste into products like instant porridge, analogous fish sago rice, and fish sago noodles. The proximate analysis results of these products show figures that exceed the minimum standards for similar products.

Цифровий інструментарій BIM-менеджменту

Introduction. This article examines the main digital tools of BIM management, their functionality and impact on construction project management processes. Current trends in the development of BIM tools, as well as their importance for the future of the construction industry, are considered. Problems. The introduction of BIM (Building Information Modeling) was a revolutionary step in the construction industry, but with it came new challenges related to the adaptation and use of digital BIM management tools. One of the key problems is insufficient standardization and integration of various software products, which leads to information fragmentation and complicates interaction between participants in construction projects. Many companies face difficulties in the integration of different BIM tools due to the lack of a unified information environment and standardized processes. The second important problem is the lack of proper qualifications and knowledge in the field of BIM management among construction industry specialists. The low level of digital literacy and shortcomings in the training of specialists slow down the process of introducing innovative technologies, and also reduce the effectiveness of using digital tools. This is especially true for small and medium-sized companies, which often do not have the resources to train staff or purchase expensive software.

Mapping the Embarkation Haji dormitory model equivalent to a star rating hotel to empower local communities and improve the national economy

The aim of this research is to map a model for utilizing Hajj dormitories in terms of products, services, management and relevant policies, towards utilizing Hajj dormitories equivalent to star hotels through Hajj dormitory accommodation services to empower local communities and improve the national economy. Specific objective: To realize the management of Hajj dormitories equivalent to star hotels in Indonesia. Research stages: in 2024 research will be carried out on the Medan Hajj embarkation dormitory. Method: This research was carried out descriptively, qualitatively, quantitatively, with a star hotel study approach, as well as community base tourism, as a model for using Hajj dormitories on a par with star hotels. The data was analyzed using the theory of hotel and tourism quality standards, and relevant theories according to the data found at the research site. The research results show a significant value, and equivalently the star hotel rating according to the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy no. 53/2013 shows the results, namely: 1). Product with a score of 429, out of 118 elements assessed, 2). Service with a score of 83 out of 31 elements assessed. , 3). Management with a score of 79 out of 20 elements assessed. Fulfillment just needs to improve 9 elements of the standard target score of 600 according to the business requirements for star hotel ratings. The suggestions are: fulfillment of the annual budget needs to be increased to improve product standards, services, training, competency tests, and direct employee involvement, as well as local community empowerment needs to be maximized.

Consumer Perception of Palm Sugar Products in Rokan Hulu District, Indonesia: A Prospective Analysis Approach

The demand for palm sugar has been consistently increasing each year, particularly due to the growing public awareness of health benefits. Palm sugar is considered a safer sweetener option due to its low glycemic index and absence of side effects. The primary objective of this research is to analyze consumer perceptions regarding the attributes of palm sugar. This analysis is crucial in assessing consumer satisfaction and loyalty toward palm sugar consumption. Consequently, the findings will contribute to enhancing the marketing mix strategies for palm sugar. The survey method was employed to conduct this research, with a sample size of 30 consumer respondents selected through random sampling. Additionally, an opinion poll was conducted with key individuals to gather insights on the development of palm sugar products. The collected data were then analyzed using a prospective analysis approach. The research results indicate that specific attributes significantly influence consumer perceptions when purchasing palm sugar. Consumer perceptions in purchasing palm sugar are based on details of the marketing mix attributes which are the determining attributes, namely: taste, quality, palm sugar color, texture, popularity of craftsmen, and price. The marketing development implications of this research are improvements to three attribute components, namely raw material composition information, product standards, hygiene, partnerships, and technology. This serves as a consideration for craftsmen to improve consumer perceptions of palm sugar. Keywords: marketing of palm sugar, perception, prospective

A WHO remit to improve global standards for medical products of human origin.

In recent decades, considerable advances have been made in assuring the safety of blood transfusion and organ transplantation. However, with the increasing movement of medical products of human origin across international boundaries, there is a need to enhance global norms and governance. These products, which include blood, organs, tissues, cells, human milk and faecal microbiota, are today crucial for health care but they also pose unique risks due to their human origin, such as disease transmission and graft failure. Moreover, the demand for medical products of human origin often exceeds supply, leading to dependence on international supply chains, and emerging technologies like cell and gene therapy present further challenges because of their unproven efficacy and long-term risks. Current regulatory mechanisms, especially in low- and middle-income countries, are insufficient. The World Health Organization (WHO) has both the mandate and experience to lead the development of international quality and safety standards, consistent product nomenclature, and robust traceability and biovigilance systems. An international, multistakeholder approach is critical for addressing the complexities of how medical products of human origin are used globally and for ensuring their safety. This approach will require promoting uniform product descriptions, enhancing digital communication systems and leveraging existing resources to support countries in establishing regulations for these products. As illustrated by World Health Assembly resolution WHA77.4 on transplantation in 2024, WHO's ongoing efforts to ensure the safe, efficient and ethical use of medical products of human origin worldwide provide the opportunity to galvanize international cooperation on establishing norms.

Scaffold-free 3D culture systems for stem cell-based tissue regeneration.

Recent advances in scaffold-free three-dimensional (3D) culture methods have significantly enhanced the potential of stem cell-based therapies in regenerative medicine. This cutting-edge technology circumvents the use of exogenous biomaterial and prevents its associated complications. The 3D culture system preserves crucial intercellular interactions and extracellular matrix support, closely mimicking natural biological niches. Therefore, stem cells cultured in 3D formats exhibit distinct characteristics, showcasing their capabilities in promoting angiogenesis and immunomodulation. This review aims to elucidate foundational technologies and recent breakthroughs in 3D scaffold-free stem cell engineering, offering comprehensive guidance for researchers to advance this technology across various clinical applications. We first introduce the various sources of stem cells and provide a comparative analysis of two-dimensional (2D) and 3D culture systems. Given the advantages of 3D culture systems, we delve into the specific fabrication and harvesting techniques for cell sheets and spheroids. Furthermore, we explore their applications in pre-clinical studies, particularly in large animal models and clinical trials. We also discuss multidisciplinary strategies to overcome existing limitations such as insufficient efficacy, hostile microenvironments, and the need for scalability and standardization of stem cell-based products.

Use of Indigenous Lactic Acid Bacteria for Industrial Fermented Sausage Production: Microbiological, Chemico-Physical and Sensory Features and Biogenic Amine Content

The use of starter cultures in the meat industry is common, even if the number of available commercial cultures is limited, inducing product standardisation and microbial diversity reduction. On the other hand, some artisanal products relying on spontaneous fermentation can represent a source of isolation of new interesting strains. In this work, four LAB strains derived from Mediterranean spontaneously fermented sausages were tested as new starter cultures for the industrial production of fermented sausages, in comparison to a commercial starter culture. The products obtained were analysed for physico-chemical parameters, microbiota, biogenic amines and aroma profile. A consumer test was also performed to evaluate product acceptability. The strains induced different acidification kinetics. LAB counts showed high persistence when Latilactobacillus curvatus HNS55 was used as the starter culture, while the addition of Companilactobacillus alimentarius CB22 resulted in a high concentration of enterococci (6 log CFU/g), 2 log higher than in other samples. Tyramine was detected at concentrations of 150–200 mg/kg, except for in the sample produced with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum BPF2 (60 mg/kg). Differences were observed in the aroma profile, with a high amount of 2-butanone found in the samples obtained with Comp. alimentarius CB22. These latter sausages also showed the lowest score in terms of acceptability. This study allowed us to select new LAB strains for fermented sausage starter cultures, increasing the product diversification.

A comparative model for financial advisory standardization in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa

The development of a theoretical model for harmonizing local and international product standards for Nigerian exports Financial inclusion remains a significant challenge in Nigeria and across Sub-Saharan Africa, with millions of individuals, particularly in rural areas, lacking access to formal financial systems. Financial advisory services play a critical role in addressing this challenge by helping individuals understand and effectively use financial products such as savings, credit, and investments. However, the lack of standardization in the delivery of these advisory services has hindered their effectiveness, resulting in inconsistent practices and limited reach, especially among the unbanked population. This review proposes a comparative model for the standardization of financial advisory services in Nigeria and other Sub-Saharan African countries. It seeks to examine the current landscape of financial advisory services, comparing Nigeria’s approach with successful models in countries such as Kenya, Ghana, and South Africa. The model emphasizes key components of standardization, including financial literacy programs, digital advisory platforms, and microfinance initiatives, which are critical to reaching underserved communities. By analyzing case studies, such as Kenya’s M-Pesa platform, which has significantly advanced financial inclusion through mobile money and advisory services, the review identifies best practices that can be adapted to Nigeria’s context. The comparative analysis highlights the importance of leveraging technology, particularly mobile platforms, to provide accessible and scalable financial advisory services. It also underscores the need for public-private partnerships, regulatory support, and tailored programs that address the unique socioeconomic and cultural characteristics of Nigeria and other Sub-Saharan countries. While digital infrastructure remains a challenge in rural areas, the success of mobile banking and advisory platforms in countries like Ghana demonstrates that technology can play a transformative role in financial inclusion. Challenges such as cultural resistance, economic disparities, and infrastructure gaps are discussed, emphasizing the need for a flexible yet standardized approach to advisory services. Additionally, the review outlines the critical role of regulatory frameworks in ensuring that financial advisory services are consistent, transparent, and accessible to all segments of the population. The review advocates for a standardized advisory model tailored to Nigeria’s specific needs, drawing lessons from successful models across Sub-Saharan Africa. Such standardization, supported by regulatory reforms and technology integration, has the potential to bridge the financial inclusion gap, empowering individuals and fostering economic growth. The review also calls for regional collaboration in Sub-Saharan Africa to promote knowledge-sharing and create unified strategies for advancing financial inclusion across the continent.

‘Does this fecal microbiota transplant work?’ Quality assurance of capsule based fecal microbiota transplant production

Background Fecal Microbiota Transplant (FMT) is an effective treatment for recurring Clostridioides Difficile Infections (rCDI). FMT administered via oral capsules (caFMT) offers several practical advantages to conventional liquid FMT. We began using caFMT in 2021 imported from an external institution. Based on similar production methods, we began our own caFMT production in 2022. We aimed to evaluate the quality of our caFMT. Study Design and Methods We created a database of all FMT treatments (n = 180) provided by our institution. Quality of all FMT was evaluated by treatment success rates. We compared our caFMT to the imported caFMT. Results Our caFMT yielded similar success rates compared to that of the imported caFMT, 65% (CI 95% 58–72%) and 72% (CI 95% 66–79%) respectively. FMT administered via colonoscopy had a significantly higher success rate, 79% (CI 95% 73–85%) than own our caFMT and other routes of administration. The combined success rate of treatments increased notably for all routes of administration when repeating FMT after prior failure. Discussion The fact that our caFMT compared similarly to the imported caFMT was viewed as a success in terms of quality assurance. Our caFMT had a slightly lower success rates compared to data from other studies, but could be affected by several other factors than our FMT-production methods. A lower success rate of caFMT compared to FMT via colonoscopy is acceptable due to the practical advantages offed by caFMT. Our study serves as a practical example, proving that of the standardization of caFMT production is indeed viable.

A Simple Theory of Deep Trade Integration

Abstract Which countries should aim for regulatory cooperation, and to what extent should they pursue it? We develop an imperfectly competitive trade model that accounts for differences in technology and regulatory preferences regarding local consumption externalities across countries. Each country sets unique product standards, and firms incur costs when tailoring products to different markets. Trade occurs when the benefits of comparative advantages outweigh the desire for asymmetric regulations. Our findings indicate that regulatory cooperation, defined as the cooperative setting of standards, is most advantageous for countries with moderate differences in regulatory preferences. Shallow integration, however, falls short of achieving the optimal planner’s solution. Countries with strong comparative advantages in distinct externality-generating goods can pursue deeper regulatory cooperation through mutual regulatory concessions. Additionally, when regulatory preferences are highly dispersed, international cooperation tends to form regulatory blocs.

Rapid Diagnostic PCR Assay Method for Species Identification of Mantidis Ootheca (Sangpiaoxiao) Based on Cytochrom C Oxidase I (COI) Barcode Analysis.

Mantidis Ootheca (sangpiaoxiao), the egg case of the mantis, is a type of insect-derived traditional medicine widely used in East Asia. However, species identification based on egg morphology is challenging, leading to the distribution of counterfeit and adulterated products. The use of inauthentic ingredients can pose serious health risks to consumers. This study aimed to develop PCR markers that can rapidly and accurately differentiate between authentic and counterfeit Mantidis Ootheca. The mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) region was sequenced in thirteen samples from four mantis species: Tenodera angustipennis, Statilia maculata, Hierodula patellifera, and T. sinensis. Four sets of SCAR primers were designed based on species-specific nucleotide polymorphisms, and a multiplex SCAR assay was developed by combining all sets of the primers. The sequence-characterized amplified region (SCAR) primers successfully produced amplicons for each target species, even with low-DNA templates or templates containing DNA from multiple samples. No amplification was observed for nontarget species. This study presents a novel approach for identifying authentic Mantidis Ootheca species using DNA-based diagnostic marker assays, which enable rapid and precise species identification. The SCAR assays developed in this study will aid in maintaining quality control and promoting the standardization of commercial Mantidis Ootheca products.

Analysis of the Mechanical Properties of Structural Ceramics Made from Aggregate Washing Sludge and Manganese Mining Waste.

The construction sector is presently among the most resource-intensive industries, driving a substantial body of research dedicated to the development of more sustainable materials to address these demands. A particularly promising approach within the framework of the circular economy is the repurposing of waste as a principal raw material for the creation of new construction products. Within this context, the primary aim of this study is to engineer ceramic materials for brick production using 100% waste-derived inputs, specifically aggregate washing sludge and manganese mining by-products. To evaluate the potential of these sustainable ceramic materials, an extensive investigation was conducted, encompassing both physical and mechanical testing, as well as a thorough characterisation of the waste inputs. For this purpose, a series of ceramic specimens were fabricated with varying proportions of mining residues and aggregate washing sludge, adhering to the conventional protocols employed in the manufacture of ceramic bricks. The results demonstrate that these sustainable ceramics exhibit a linear shrinkage reduction of up to 5% compared to traditional clay-based ceramics. Furthermore, they show water absorption levels-whether via capillarity, cold water, or hot water absorption-that are up to twice those observed in conventional clay ceramics, while maintaining comparable density values. This increased absorption, however, correlates with a reduction in mechanical strength at higher concentrations of manganese waste, yet the material continues to meet the minimum strength requirements as specified by industry standards for such products. In conclusion, this research introduces a novel, sustainable ceramic material that not only reduces economic and environmental costs but also adheres to the required performance criteria for construction applications.

Impact assessment of COVID-19 and PMO15 on labour in the plantation-wood processing sector in Lao PDR with policy recommendations

The primary objective of this research was to 1) explore the impacts of COVID-19 on availability of, and demand for, labor in the plantation-wood processing sector in Lao PDR; 2) the Government and industry response measures to COVID-19; and 3) the impacts of 2016 Prime Ministers’ Order (No. 15/PM, PMO15) aimed at addressing illegal logging and controlling log exports were also considered, as representative of a similar ‘shock’ to the sector. The research, undertaken in Vientiane Capital City, adopted a mainly qualitative methodology utilizing literature reviews and semi-structured interviews to gather data from the government, industry and workers. Micro, small and medium sized companies and their employees were surveyed. The research found that Lao wood manufacturers were affected by the shutdowns in response to COVID-19 and there were follow-on effects up and down value chains. The experiences of Laos were found to be similar to those experienced in wood producing countries globally. Supply issues and access to markets were key factors impacting the ability of factories to continue to operate and retain workers. Government protection measures were effective but challenging to implement, and access to support was difficult. Impacts on male and female differed. Awareness of, and access to, mandatory social security insurance by workers was very low. Other forms of social ‘safety-net’ were more apparent and important, including company-based programs, charity, and family/self-help. Improved dissemination of information about the need for, and benefits of, social security should occur to mitigate future shocks. The high dependence on foreign workers to fill skilled jobs in the sector remains an issue. Coupled with reforms in response to PMO15, to improve factory and product standards and ongoing export restrictions, there is a need further build Lao skills and capacity. Current efforts to up-skill Lao workers for employment in emerging wood product industries must be maintained, and improved recognition of Lao-acquired competencies is needed. Market needs analysis including the development of product dossiers is required together with the building of relevant technical expertise. Without this the Lao wood processing sector will be remain vulnerable to future shocks.