The ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) entered into force at the end of 2015. Although many of the implications of the AEC remain uncertain, it will ostensibly bring ASEAN member countries into a single market and production base, enabling a freer flow of goods and services throughout the entire region. This could bring more foreign direct investment to Laos, which is likely to encourage more intensive, commercialized agriculture that require more agrochemical inputs and have harmful effects on the environment. More people educated about good standards of practice would help reduce or better apply these agricultural inputs. Improvements in agricultural education and training, especially to support knowledge about alternative approaches to agriculture, the environment and health issues, and enhanced technical skills would help meet the future challenges facing Laos and the AEC.