J&C Insurance Brokers’ New Website Is Live!
J&C Insurance Brokers, the leading insurance broker in Laos, has launched a new website to drive the company’s objectives of innovation and professionalism.
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Author: J&C Admin
Hike In Premium Grade Fuel Price To Hit Motorists’ Pockets
Petrol stations in the capital and Vientiane province are now selling premium grade fuel at 11,289 kip per litre, which is the lowest price in the country.
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Harsher Penalties Demanded For Officers Involved In Drug Offences
Party and government leaders have demanded that state officers involved in the abuse of narcotic drugs should be subject to harsher penalties than ordinary citizens a move seen as setting officers as an example.
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More Family Members, Older People Contract Covid-19
More and more family members and older people are developing Covid-19 due to failure to comply with measures imposed to contain the spread of the virus.
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Australia, Laos Agree On Large-scale Covid Vaccination Support
Australia and Laos on Wednesday announced that Australia will provide a grant of AUD15.2 million for the rollout of safe and effective Covid-19 vaccines in Laos.
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Two Policemen Sacked For Concealing Illegal Entry Of Foreign Nationals
The Ministry of Public Security has stripped two Savannakhet police officers of their position and cancelled their allowances, charging them with deliberately concealing the movements of foreigners who entered Laos illegally.
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Vientiane Woman Dies After Being Vaccinated
A 63-year-old woman has died after being given the AstraZeneca vaccine last week
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New Guidelines Issued For Vientiane Entry & Exit
The Vientiane Taskforce for Covid-19 Prevention and Control has issued new guidelines which require people wishing to exit or enter the capital to submit certain documents while the lockdown remains in force.
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Unemployment Spirals Due To Covid-19 Outbreak
The unemployment rate has increased sharply since the end of 2020 amid measures imposed to prevent the spread of the virus.
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Govt To Continue Suspension Of Passenger Transport
The government will continue to suspend all passenger transportation services by land, water, and air between the capital to provinces and within provinces.
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Factories Can Continue Operations During Lockdown
Factories are permitted to continue their operations so long as they strictly comply with Covid-19 prevention and control measures, a senior government official has said.
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Lockdown Extended Until May 20
The government has extended the lockdown for another 15 days until May 20 in an ongoing effort to contain the Covid-19 outbreak as new cases continue to surge.
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90 Percent Of Tourism Businesses Close Due To Covid Outbreak
The hospitality industry in Laos is facing a further slump as a result of the ongoing outbreak of Covid-19 with about 90 percent of businesses forced to close their doors.
Read more Covid Cases Surge In Bokeo
Bokeo province was recorded the highest number of new Covid infections on Sunday, recording 60 new cases, with an outbreak in Tonpheung district infecting 57 people.
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Lockdown Travel Curbs Lead To Sharp Drop In Traffic Accidents
The ongoing lockdown in Vientiane has resulted in a significant drop in the number of traffic accidents as fewer people are on the roads due to the restrictions on travel.
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EDL To Discount Electricity Rates During Lockdown Period
The new electricity rates for households will be calculated from May to July in provinces under lockdown. The discount applies only to residential consumers and does not include value-added tax (VAT).
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Authorities Mull Policies To Ease Impacts Of Covid-19
A number of policies are being considered to mitigate the effects of the ongoing Covid-19 outbreak on the economy and people’s livelihoods.
Read more Taskforce Orders Tougher Action To Curb Escalating Covid Outbreak
The National Taskforce for Covid-19 Prevention and Control has told its provincial bodies to intensify action to contain the Covid-19 outbreak, which is spreading rapidly.
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Inflation Continues To Rise Amid Covid-19 Crisis
The year-on-year inflation rate continued to rise in Laos in March amid economic distress triggered by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Read more 93 More Cases Of Covid-19 Confirmed
An additional 93 people have tested positive for Covid-19, bringing the total number of known cases in Laos to 604.
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ADB Positive About Growth Of Lao Economy Despite Covid-19 Crisis
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is optimistic about the growth of the Lao economy amid the Covid-19 crisis and lockdown measures imposed to contain the spread of the Coronavirus.
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Immigration Department Suspends Penalties For Returning Lao Migrants
All Lao nationals wishing to return to Laos from Thailand, including those who have been working there illegally, are being encouraged to enter at official border crossings without fear of being fined.
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Sports Stadium To Become Makeshift Hospital As Virus Cases Surge
Temporary hospitals opened in Vientiane on Monday to accommodate Covid-19 patients amid a surge in new cases, while authorities insist that there are sufficient hospital beds.
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Blood Transfusion Centre Issues Appeal For Donors
The National Blood Transfusion Centre, run by the Lao Red Cross, is calling on members of the public to give blood urgently, saying it is needed for the treatment of Covid-19 at hospitals around the country.
Read more Govt Orders Preparations For Worsening Covid Scenario
The government has instructed the relevant authorities to review and draw up plans of the essentials they need to deal with the Covid-19 outbreak as the number of cases continues to rise.
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Malaria Vaccine Hailed As Potential Breakthrough
A malaria vaccine has proved to be 77% effective in early trials and could be a major breakthrough against the disease
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Driving In Laos: What License Do I Need ?
There is always much confusion among foreigners living in Laos about the required licenses to drive.
So what kinds of licenses are needed to drive in Laos ? These are the four possibilities to legally drive a vehicle in Laos:
Covid-19 Taskforce Sets Up Four Testing Centres
The National Taskforce Committee for Covid-19 Prevention and Control is using four additional places in its efforts to identify and test people who may be infected with Covid-19, who will now be tested for the virus.
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Schools Close In Vientiane, Move To Distance Learning
The Ministry of Education and Sports has ordered the closure of public and private schools in Vientiane from April 22 to May 5
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Lao Airlines Suspends All Domestic Flights
Lao Airlines is suspending all domestic flights until May 5 after the government on Wednesday introduced new measures to prevent the spread of Covid-19 in Vientiane.
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Rollout Of Covid-19 Vaccination Programme Speeds Up
People in Vientiane and some provinces have now had their first and second doses of the Covid-19 vaccine.
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Laos Locks Down Capital, Provinces As COVID Cases Climb
Laos has announced a two-week lockdown in the capital Vientiane, with restrictions also ordered in several provinces as the number of COVID cases in the country suddenly climbs
Read more 28 New Cases Of Covid-19 Confirmed
Another 28 people have tested positive for Covid-19 after 656 people were tested for the virus this week, bringing the total number of known cases to 88
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Covid-19 Vaccination Programme Makes Good Progress
The government plans to vaccinate at least 150,000 people in the initial stages of the programme.
Read more Four More cases Of Covid-19 Confirmed
Four more people have tested positive for Covid-19, bringing the total number of known cases in Laos to 58, the Ministry of Health announced on Saturday.
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After A Day Of Confusion, Govt Dismisses Capital’s Lockdown Proposal
The government has decided not to lock down Vientiane after considering a request by city authorities to impose the drastic measure until the end of this month.
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Happy Lao New Year 2021! Sokdee Pi Mai Lao!
The entire J&C Group team wishes you a prosperous and wonderful 2021 and in meantime stay healthy and safe !
Read more Two More Covid-19 Cases Confirmed
Two people have tested positive for Covid-19 with the results confirmed on April 10, the national virus taskforce announced on Sunday.
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Chinese Vaccines’ Effectiveness Low, Official Admits
Efficacy of a coronavirus vaccine from Sinovac has been found to be as low as 50.4 percent by researchers.
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Laos Now Perceived To Be The Third Most Corrupt Country In The Asean Bloc In 2020, Says Transparency International
Laos is now also the third most corrupt country in the Asean bloc, following Myanmar and Cambodia.
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Ten Chinese On “Shopping trip” Arrested Crossing Mekong River From Laos Into Thailand
A navy personnel patrol in the Chiang Khong area of Chiang Rai intercepted six Chinese nationals after they crossed over into Thailand from Laos.
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Laos Reports 1st Human H5N6 Avian Influenza Case
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports the first human case of avian influenza A(H5N6) virus infection has been reported in Laos.
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Railways To Help Laos’ Businesses Blossom
Once opened, the Laos-China Railway promises to be a significant engine of business development in Laos.
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Laos Enjoys US$42 Million Trade Surplus In February
Laos recorded a trade surplus of US$42 million in February even though the value of goods sold to the country’s two main trading partners, China and Vietnam, dropped compared to January.
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Thailand Braced For Infections Spike After Detecting UK COVID-19 Variant
Source: Thaivisa Thailand has detected at least 24 cases of the coronavirus variant B.1.1.7 first identified in Britain, a government health
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Police Issue 15 Ban Rules, Prohibit Drunk Driving Over Lao New Year
The General Police Department recently issued 15 banning rules in regards to the celebration of Lao New Year during April 14-16
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Nation Mourns As Former President’s Wife And Son Among Victims Of Boating Tragedy
The nation is mourning the tragic loss of several members of former President Choummaly Sayasone’s family when a pleasure boat capsized on Sunday, resulting in the death of the former president’s wife and son
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Russia to Build Airport in Laos, Train Armed Forces in Sign of Strengthening Military Ties
Russian troops have been clearing an area of around 500 hectares of unexploded ordnance, or UXO, in Laos’ Xieng Khouang province with plans to build a new airport and military facility as part of an expansion of military aid to the impoverished Southeast Asian nation
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Power Supply For Laos-China Railway Completed
The Laos-China Railway Power Supply Project has been completed on schedule, paving the way for the planned operation of the railway in December.
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Eight Die In Pleasure Boat Capsize On Sunday
Eight people drowned when a pleasure boat capsized on Sunday morning during a trip on Nam Ngum Lake
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Mass Rollout Of Covid-19 Vaccine Gets Underway
The government has begun vaccinating the most vulnerable and at-risk groups in a step towards ending the acute phase of the Covid-19 pandemic.
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Thai Govt Confirms List Of Approved Vaccines For Foreigners To Enter Thailand With Reduced Quarantine
The Thai government has released its latest guidelines and requirements for foreign tourists wanting to enter the country.
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Pi Mai Lao Celebrations Limited To Traditional Events
Provinces across the country will organise scaled-down events to celebrate Lao New Year (Pi Mai Lao) from April 14-16 this year.
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2021 Lao New Year Promotion – LUCKY DRAW!
Win a fantastic, relaxing, and cocooning experience at the Luang Prabang Hotel as a first prize!
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Expressway Operator Applies New Security Measures
The new security measures are to prevent further accidents along the highway Vientiane – Vang Vieng.
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Australia Assists Laos With Purchase Of Covid-19 Vaccine
Australia will extend further assistance to Laos with regard to the purchase of Covid-19 vaccine and its transport, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has said.
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Storm Wreaks Havoc In Xanakham, Alert For More Wind And Rain
The Meteorology and Hydrology Department is advising everyone to be on the alert for the possibility of more wind and rain between April 2-4
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Four Earthquakes Hit Northern Laos
Four earthquakes occurred in the northern provinces on Monday, with the seismic events measuring from 2.4 to 4.6 on the Richter scale.
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Handicraft Designers Pledge To Protect Traditional Designs
Better knowledge of copyright and trademarks has become necessary in the traditional handicraft industry.
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Luang Prabang To Celebrate Lao New Year From April 10-25
Luang Prabang province is planning a colourful programme of activities for Lao New Year (Pi Mai Lao) from April from 10-25 in the hope of attracting more visitors
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Do’s & Don’t If You Have An Accident In Laos
For foreigners, driving in Laos can be very different to driving in their home country. Motorbike riders frequently drive on the wrong side of the road and cars do not always respect Lao road rules. Those new to the country will need to take great care to avoid accidents.
If an accident does occur, here are some tips on what to do & not to do:
Laos Must Speed Up Reform To Maximise Benefits Of Railway: World Bank
In order to maximise benefits from the rail project, Laos must quickly create a business friendly environment.
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Thailand Approves Quarantine Waiver For Tourists
The coronavirus task force on Friday gave the green light to Phuket to receive vaccinated visitors directly from July, without subjecting them to quarantine, after the island inoculates 70% of its residents.
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Govt Bans Public Events Over Pi Mai (Lao New Year)
All public events are banned over the Lao New Year holiday from April 14-16 as part of the government’s continuing measures to keep Covid-19 in check.
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Motorists Warned To Avoid Kasy-Nan Road
Motorists driving between Vientiane and Luang Prabang are advised to avoid the section of Road No. 4C
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Vietnam Hands Over $111 Million Parliament Building to Lao Government
The building highlights Vietnam’s desire to prevent Laos from spiraling off into China’s orbit.
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Lao Govt To Address Seven Urgent Issues To Spur Development
Newly-elected Prime Minister Phankham Viphavanh highlighted the seven concerns
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Inflation Down But Cost Of Living Remains High
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) stood at 113.61 points in February, indicating an inflation rate of 1.91 percent year-on-year, down from the 2.01 percent recorded in January
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Former Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith Elected As State President
Party Secretary General, Mr Thongloun Sisoulith has become the new President of the Lao PDR
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Thai Economy Unlikely To Bounce Back
The Thai economy in 2021 will not rebound from a negative growth of 6.1% last year and could risk facing a financial crisis like in 1997″
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UN’s AstraZeneca Covid-19 Vaccines Donation Arrives In Laos
Source: Star The arrival of the first shipment of the Covid-19 vaccines from the COVAX Facility marked an important step
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Laos Grants 25-Year Power Grid Concession To Chinese-Majority Firm
The deal will deepen China’s involvement in the Lao government’s goal of transforming itself into the “battery of Southeast Asia.”
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Lao Authorities Require People Entering Laos To Wear Out-Smart Bracelet
Lao authorities are advising foreign airlines to provide passengers flying to Laos with “out-smart” bracelets that monitor their temperature, as part of continuing efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
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New Mahosot Hospital Set For Completion In May 2022
Construction has been delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic after work began in November 2018.
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We Finally Know The True Age of These Huge, Mysterious Jars Scattered in Laos
In total, there are thousands of them – a giant landscape of strange, hollowed jars, carved from ancient stone.
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J&C Insurance Brokers Awarded Agent Of The Year 2020
Once again rewarded as ‘Agent of the Year’, J&C Insurance Brokers was in 2020 performing at the highest level thanks to the support of the APA Insurance’ products!
Read more Unemployment Spirals To 23.4 Percent Amid Covid-19 Pandemic
Unemployment in Laos has skyrocketed to 23.4 percent, indicating that about 320,000 people are out of work
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New English Language Curriculum On Track For Use In Primary Schools
Source: Vientiane Times The new English language curriculum for Grade 3 primary students will be rolled out at the start
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Spotify Expanding To Over 80 New Locations Including Brunei, Laos and Cambodia
Spotify has announced an expansion to over 80 new locations around the world, including Brunei, Laos and Cambodia.
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Chinese Investment in Laos Sparks Chinese-Language Learning Boom
A Chinese language education boom is underway in Laos as Beijing’s increasing investments in the Southeast Asian country point to a future where Chinese companies dominate local commerce
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Luang Prabang To Lead The Way In Digital Transformation
Luang Prabang province has begun the first steps in becoming a Smart City through the creation of e-government practices.
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Tracking App Now Mandatory For Foreign Tourists: Thailand
Foreign tourists who have received the certificate of entry to Thailand are now required to download the ThailandPlus app, prior to their arrival
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Fuel Prices Rise For Fourth Time This Year
Source: Vientiane Times Motorists across the country are rushing to petrol stations to fill up their tanks after the government
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Pork Price Spirals As Controls Fail
Authorities have been unable to cap the price of pork, which has now risen above the price set during the Covid-19 pandemic, and are trying to find a way to keep prices down.
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J&C Insurance Brokers Awarded Top Agent of Forte-Toko Assurance 2020
During the recent annual agent/broker celebration held by Forte-Toko Assurance, J&C Insurance Brokers was rewarded as Top Agent 2020.
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Micro-Businesses Dominate Laos’ Enterprises
Laos, as a least developed country, is still largely dominated by microbusinesses, which account for 94.2 percent of all enterprises in the country
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Ministry Seeks Changes To Expressway Toll, Currency Exchange Rates
The Investment Promotion Department of the Ministry of Planning and Investment has advised the Laos-China Joint Expressway Development Co., Ltd. to revise the toll rate currently charged for pick-up trucks and also the dollar-kip exchange rate
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Weathermen Predict Another Dip In Temperatures
Temperatures are forecast to dip by 1-3C accompanied by light fog in parts of the country until February 21 due to the influence of a weak high-pressure system in China.
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5 Reasons to Study Lao Online
So you’re in Laos, but are having trouble communicating with the locals and not sure where to begin? Here are five reasons why you should consider learning Lao online
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Inflation Down, But Financial Hardship Persists
Although inflation is trending downwards, many people feel their personal situation has not improved at all due to the mismatch between their income and spending.
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MRC Blames Mekong River’s Blue Hue on Upstream Outflow Restrictions, Decreased Rainfall
Water levels in the Mekong River are down to “worrying” levels with some parts of the major Southeast Asian waterway in Laos and Thailand turning blue due to increased algae growth
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Xekong To Open First Int’l Border Crossing With Vietnam
Xekong province will open its first international border crossing with Vietnam next month to ease the movement of goods and people between the two countries.
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J&C Insurance Brokers Awarded Top Agent and Strategic Partner 2020
Awarded as the ‘Top Agent for Health Insurance’, J&C Insurance Brokers was recognized for their exceptional performance in 2020 – by Lanexang Assurance!
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Laos Increasingly Witnesses Extreme Weather
Source: Vientiane Times Laos has witnessed increasingly extreme weather events due to climate change causing unusualy situations. In recent years,
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Laos Planned Railways: Opening a National Rail Network in 2021
At present, Laos doesn’t have any railways. However, that is about to change in 2021.
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Vientiane Creates New District
Vientiane authorities are in the process of creating a new district, which will be the tenth in the capital
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Pepsi Names Famous K-Pop Girl Group ‘BLACKPINK’ As New Asia-Pacific Brand Ambassadors
The world’s popular soft drink Pepsi, a trend-setter of youth fashion and culture, announced superstar K-Pop girl group BLACKPINK as its new Asia-Pacific spokespersons
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Laos’ Fish Larb Video Show At Fisheries Meeting In Rome
Lao food, fish Larb “Fish mixed salad” recently was selected to show its delicious recipe via a shot video to VIP’s at a global fisheries conference in Rome, Italy.
Read more Laos Tightens Measures As Covid-19 Cases In Neighbouring Countries Rise
The government has issued a notice stating more stringent measures against Covid-19 have been put in place for Feb 1- Mar 31, 2021.
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Laos To Earn Revenue From Sale Of Carbon Credit Next Year
The government expects to earn its first income from the sale of carbon credit next year after signing an agreement with the World Bank.
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J&C Insurance Now Officially Operates As Insurance Brokers!
We are proud to announce that J&C Insurance has recently been provided with a Broker’s license, registered under J&C Insurance Brokers Co., Ltd.
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Lao Airlines’ Earnings Nosedive By 70 Percent In 2020
Lao Airlines’ earnings plummeted by 70 percent last year compared to 2019 as result of a sharp drop in passenger numbers due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
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J&C Group welcomes Lukasz Nitka as Partner !
It is with great pride and excitement that we announce Mr. Lukasz Nitka’s promotion to Partner at J&C Group!
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Lao Economy Set to Recover If Threats Can Be Contained
While economic growth in the Lao PDR contracted in 2020 for the first time in over two decades, the economy is set to recover in 2021 and in the medium term, provided the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic is contained and business can resume with trading partners
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Elephant Festival 2021 Limited To Just One Day
This year’s 15th Elephant Festival will be a scaled down affair and will take place over the course of just one day, as a result of the restrictions resulting from the Covid-19 pandemic.
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PM Thongloun Elected As Party Chief By XI Party Congress
Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith was elected on Friday as Secretary General of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party Central Committee – the top post in the Party – replacing retiring Party leader Bounnhang Vorachit.
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Unemployment In Laos Soared By 20 Percent In 2020
The unemployment rate in Laos skyrocketed to 20 percent in 2020, a 10.6 percent increase compared to the figures for 2017, and the global Covid-19 outbreak was the main factor for the sharp increase in the number of jobless in the country.
Read more Inflation Rises In Laos In December
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) in Laos continues to rise despite the government’s enhanced measures to control the prices of products in local markets.
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XI National Party Congress Opens
The 11th Congress of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party opened on Wednesday to track achievements made in implementing the resolution of the 10th Party Congress under the leadership of the Party Central Committee over the past five years (2016-2020).
Read more Tonpheung District Under Lockdown After Man Tests Positive For Covid-19
Authorities have ordered a lockdown in the Golden Triangle special economic zone, which includes Tonpheung district in Bokeo province, with no one allowed to enter or leave the district in a bid to prevent the spread of Covid-19.
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Bangchak Corporation (BCP) Adds Coffee Shops In Laos, Cambodia
Inthanin Coffee claims to be environmentally friendly, with a total of 690 outlets in Thailand and eight overseas. The business is run by BCP’s wholly-owned Bangchak Retail Co.
Read more Authorities Ramp Up Lao-Thai Border Checks To Prevent Virus Spread
Local authorities have been urged to monitor border crossings to prevent people from entering Laos illegally from Thailand, to stem the spread of Covid-19 after a widespread outbreak in Thailand.
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Visitor Adventure Park Planned For Phou Bia Mountain
The developers expect to spend more than US$47 million to create tourism activities alongside environmental conservation measures undertaken by the Khamphay Sana Group.
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Lao Postal Enterprise Partners With Chinese Express Delivery Operator
Laos’ state-owned postal enterprise is looking forward to working with its newly-signed partner, ZTO Express, a China-based provider of services including express delivery, logistics and e-commerce, to upgrade the skills of IT personnel as well as build capacity in other areas.
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Vientiane City Police Process Over 2,000 Crimes In Six Months Of 2020
Police handled more than 2,000 criminal cases in Vientiane during the first six months of the year involving assets valued at over 2,256 million kip.
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Vientiane City Authorities Plan To Introduce Smart Zones
Several areas of Vientiane have been designated for development as “smart zones” through the use of Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) in the development of the capital.
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Weathermen Warn Of Continuing Cold Snap
Authorities are warning the public to be prepared for more cold weather amid health concerns.
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Stuck In Laos And Need To Go Home?
The latest UK travel advisory update says there are currently only occasional charter flights which allow a return to the UK, via third countries from Laos
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Luang Prabang To Have New Public Park
A vacant plot of land in Luang Prabang city will be turned into a green space to enhance the urban environment.
Read more Expressway Operator Clarifies Toll Charges
All vehicles using the newly-opened Vientiane-Vangvieng expressway must pay the set toll rates, except in the case of an emergency or accident, when specially designated ambulances can enter free or charge.
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Govt Recruits Fewer Officials, Prioritises Teachers And Doctors
More than 10,000 people have been nominated by state sectors across the country for hiring as new civil servants but the government has decided to recruit only 1,600 officials in 2021
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China-Laos Railway Tracks Laid To Luang Prabang, Achieving Yearly Goals
The China-Laos railway tracks have successfully extended from Lao capital Vientiane to northern Laos’ transport hub Luang Prabang on Tuesday, thus accomplishing all the construction targets set at the beginning of 2020.
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More Domestic Tourists Rush To Vangvieng Amid Covid-19 Restrictions
Tourists from Vientiane and other nearby provinces are rushing to Vangvieng district for a short break despite the suspension of the Vangvieng Music Festival to curb the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic.
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Vientiane City Authorities Plan 30 Large-Scale Development Projects
Vientiane authorities have pledged to carry out 30 large-scale development projects from now until 2025 in a bid to accelerate the capital’s economic growth.
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Ministry Postpones Sim Card Registration Until June
The authorities have postponed Sim card registration until the end of June, citing the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, with all unregistered Sim cards to be disconnected from July 1.
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Audit And Compliance In Laos: A Guide For Foreign Investors
The Enterprise law and the Law on Independent Audit are the main laws that establish audit requirements in Laos.
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Thailand Could See Tens Of Thousands Of New Daily COVID Cases By Next Month: CCSA
Thailand could see tens of thousands of new COVID-19 cases per day by mid January, if people fail to follow the preventive guidelines issues to combat the spread of the virus.
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Singaporean With Passion To Care For Animals At Shelter In Laos
Kelvin Wee, the founder of an animal shelter in Laos, was in tears as he recalled the story of a two-year-old mongrel who was adopted from the shelter by a fellow Singaporean in May.
Read more Ban On Charter Flights Extended To Keep Covid-19 In Check
The government is continuing the suspension of charter flights as of Wednesday, aiming to prevent people bringing the coronavirus into Laos.
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Laos Introduces Corporate Criminal Liability
Not only natural persons (individuals) but also legal persons, such as companies, NGOs, associations, and foundations operating in the Lao PDR, now face criminal liability under new legislation enacted by the government aimed at strengthening the rule of law in the country.
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Free Covid-19 Vaccinations May Be Available In 2021
Free Covid-19 vaccinations will be available for Lao people next year to provide protection against the potent virus while the threat of infection persists.
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Vientiane-Vangvieng Expressway Officially Open For Motorists
Motorists will now have the convenience of travelling from Vientiane to Vangvieng in an hour following the opening of a new expressway linking the capital to the popular tourist destination on Sunday.
Read more Over 6,000 Crimes Recorded Nationwide In 2020
A total of 6,209 crimes were recorded across the country this year, with drug trafficking being the most frequently occurring crime.
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Festivals Postponed Amid Covid Fears
Authorities have ordered the postponement of many popular festivals and their related activities scheduled to take place in the provinces in a recent move to prevent a potential Covid-19 outbreak in Laos.
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Govt, Private Sector Mull Use Of Electric Vehicles
The government and private sector are partnering to promote the development of electric vehicles to encourage the use of clean energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
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Inflation Trending Downwards But Still High
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) has dipped in recent months after inflation peaked at 6.94 percent in January.
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“Made in Laos 2020” To Promote Economic Recovery After Covid-19 Crisis
The upcoming Made in Laos 2020 fair, to be held at Lao-ITECC in Vientiane from December 25 to January 3 next year, will be used as a platform to spur domestic consumption and to promote a range of “Made in Laos” goods.
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Laos’ Banks Linked For Money Transfers Via Mobile App
Customers of many banks in Laos will now be able to transfer money via a mobile application managed by the joint venture Lao National Payment Network Co Ltd (LAPNet) under the Bank of the Lao PDR (BOL).
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Thailand To Remain Closed To Mass Tourism Until March, Travel Bubble Discussions Ongoing
Thailand will remain closed to the vast majority of foreign tourists until at least the second quarter of 2021.
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Tonpheung District Locked Down After Two Imported COVID-19 Cases
Bokeo province has imposed a lockdown on Tonpheung district after a report informed authorities that two Chinese nationals infected with Covid-19 had travelling from Myanmar to China via the district and Luang Namtha province.
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Up To Eight Killed Or Injured In Blast At Lao-Vietnam Border Checkpoint
Source: RFA Up to eight people were killed or injured in a blast at a checkpoint on the Laos-Vietnam border
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Opening Of Vientiane-Vangvieng Expressway Delayed
Authorities have postponed the opening of the 113.50-km expressway linking Vientiane and Vangvieng as work on the project is not yet fully complete.
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New Streetlights Brighten Vientiane For National Day
New streetlights along seven main roads in the capital have given the city a bright new feel amid preparations to celebrate National Day on Wednesday.
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Laos Suspends Charter Flights & Entry Visas From Outbreak Countries
The government will no longer issue entry visas for people travelling to Laos from countries with a community outbreak of Covid-19, the national taskforce has announced.
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Laos Records US$729 Million In Imports, Exports For October
Laos reported a record US$729 million in imports and exports in October this year, with the value of exports put at US$347 million and the value of import calculated at US$382 million.
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Luang Prabang Film Festival Announces 2020 Lineup
The Luang Prabang Film Festival (LPFF) has unveiled its official selections for 2020. From the mountains of Vang Vieng to Manilla shopping malls, the program spans nine countries and includes a Southeast Asian premiere.
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Lao-English, English-Lao’s Voice Translator Now Available On Play Store
“Say Lao-Eng´”, a programme for translating from Lao to English and from English to Lao on mobile phones, is the country’s first voice app that is now available on Google Play Store.
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14 New Cases Of Covid-19 Confirmed
A total of 14 people have tested positive for Covid-19 – the highest number to be identified in Laos in a single day – authorities confirmed on Monday.
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Thai Embassies Scrap 500k THB Financial Requirement For Single Entry Tourist Visa
The Thai embassies in London and Washington appear to have scrapped the recent requirement for foreigners applying for a Single Entry Tourist Visa (SETV) to show proof of funds totalling 500,000 THB or equivalent.
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Lao Govt Explains Main Reasons For Rising Debt Burden
The government has cited five reasons for its spiralling public debt over the past five years, which is continuing even though measures have been introduced to address it.
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Thailand Liberalises Sale And Possession Of Category II Narcotics
Category II comprises 102 ordinary narcotics, such as morphine, cocaine, codeine, medicinal opium, and fresh opium.
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Laos Eagerly Anticipates Opening Of First Expressway
The Vientiane-Vangvieng section is about 110 km long, designed as a two-way four-lane expressway with a design speed of 80 km to 100 km per hour.
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We Have Our First Winner!
Congratulations to Curtis Feese (being represented by Paula Haynes) for winning the APA pillow!
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Can Lao Move To A Digital Economy?
The Fourth Industrial Revolution is a train that you either get on or you’ll find yourself being left far, far behind.
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Laos, Asia-Pacific Sign World’s Biggest Trade Deal
RCEP includes China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand and the 10 members of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN)
Read more Single Entry Tourist Visa To Thailand Now Requires Foreigners To Show Funds Of 500’000 THB
Foreigners who wish to apply for a Single Entry Tourist Visa (SETV) to Thailand are now required to provide 6 months worth of bank statements showing a bank balance of at least 500,000 THB.
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J&C Insurance To Provide Property And Personal Accident Insurance For Tukata Day-Care Centers
The Personal Accident coverage is applicable to all children on their premises. With the skilled staff at Tukata and our comprehensive coverage in case of accident, your child is safe at all times.
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Lao Govt Confident Of Economic Recovery Next Year
The government is optimistic that the economy will grow by 4-4.5 percent next year despite complex global changes and Laos’ financial difficulties.
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Laos The Shortest Nation In The World
A new study published by The Lancet medical journal has revealed the tallest and shortest peoples and the places that continue to grow in height.
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79 Killed In Road Accidents In Laos In October
A total of 79 people were killed in 604 road accidents in Laos in October, according to the latest report from Lao Ministry of Public Security.
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Coming soon! The banlao.la Homes, Loans & Lifestyle EXPO – December 4, 5, 6 2020
The banlao.la Homes, Loans, and Lifestyle Expo will see 100+ companies under one roof at the NCC in Vientiane Capital and is set to welcome 10,000+ guests from across Laos, the ASEAN region, and Mainland China
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Brush Up Your First Aid Skills With Vientiane Rescue 1623
The long-term impact of an injury or illness can be greatly reduced if the patient receives proper care immediately. This is the reason why First Aid is extremely important!
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Luang Prabang Film Festival Goes Online
Luang Prabang Film Festival returns for its 10th event with a streaming program free to audiences across Southeast Asia
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Shopping-D – Your Personal Concierge For Groceries
Shopping-D online grocery has over 6.000 items starting from fruits, vegetables, fresh meat, cleaning products and other items for your daily needs. Try – you will love it.
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Lao Govt Vows To Smooth The Path For Investors
The Lao government has pledged to remove barriers and further improve the business climate in a bid to attract more investment from Laos and foreign countries.
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Pandemic Has Set Revenue Collection Back Three Years
The impact of the coronavirus on the economy has driven revenue collection back by three years, the deputy prime minister has told the National Assembly
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International Border Crossings Remain Closed To Ordinary Travellers: Latest Update
The Prime Minister’s Office issued the update on Saturday, relaxing some of the restrictions in a bid to gradually normalise the situation and mitigate economic impacts.
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Starbucks To Open In Laos As Part Of Asian Expansion
Expansion aims at attracting both tourists and locals in Laos
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China-Laos Railway Lays 1st Section Of Electrical High-Voltage Power Cable
The first section of electrical high-voltage power cable for China-Laos Railway has been successfully laid in position.
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Lao Government Outlines Plans To Tackle Debt Issue
The Lao government has announced that it will manage and address public debt in various ways as it seeks to ease the country’s financial tensions.
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Laos Set Its Own Debt Trap
‘Inadequate’ foreign exchange reserves, a widening current account deficit, contingent liabilities from public–private partnerships, poor governance — including weak institutional capacity and corruption controls — and constrained political freedoms that limit accountability have all contributed
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Various Charter Flights Await Approval
Applications for international flights to operate from Laos have been submitted and are awaiting approval from the Lao PDR government
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Govt Reopens Local Border Crossings To Facilitate Business
The government is temporarily reopening some “local” and “customary” border crossings in a bid to revive the economy and minimise the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic.
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Number Of Families Working In Agriculture Down By 10 Percent: Survey
A survey conducted in 2019-2020 revealed that 851,257 families in Laos work in agriculture
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Laos To Launch Fast-Track Immigration Service For China Soon
Incomers are expected to spend a shorter time in quarantine; Authorities are also considering the use of electronic tracking devices
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Squabble Over Why Repatriation Flight For 40 Aussies From Laos Was Stopped From Landing In Cairns
A blame game has erupted between Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk over who withdrew permission for a repatriation charter flight from Laos to land in Cairns.
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IMF Downgrades Laos’ Economic Growth To 0.2 Percent
The lower growth rate is attributed to several factors linked to the global economic slump, triggered by the Covid-19 pandemic.
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Economic Issues Top Agenda At Upcoming NA Session
The economy will feature as one of the main topics of debate at the 10th Session of the National Assembly (NA)’s 8th legislature, which starts next week.
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Stakeholders Discuss Establishment Of Consumer Protection Association
Stakeholders from the public and private sectors as well as civil society met in Vientiane to discuss and exchange views on the establishment of a consumer protection association.
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Authorities Seeking To Aid Savannakhet Flood Victims
Provincial authorities are working to urgently assist flood-affected villagers in Savannakhet by providing drinking water, rice, and other necessities after heavy rain caused flash flooding in the region over the weekend.
Read more COVID Taskforce Details Procedures For Entry Into Laos
Upon arrival in Laos, incomers will be tested for Covid-19 and will be quarantined at a designated location for 48 hours while they await the test results.
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BOL To Transform IT Infrastructure System
The Bank of the Lao PDR (BOL) is upgrading its IT infrastructure system to ensure financial transaction services throughout the country.
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Tourism Businesses In Laos Slash Prices To Woo Local Travellers
Tour and hospitality business operators have massively cut the cost of their services and package tours to make prices more affordable and encourage Lao people to take vacations around the country.
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China Announces Further Support For Laos
China has agreed to support Laos through three projects as part of efforts to strengthen cooperative relations between the two countries.
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Fluctuating Exchange Rate Increases Pressure On Lao Economy
Many firms are effectively conducting business and basing their pricing on foreign currencies sold in the parallel market
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Projected Revenue Shortfall Adds To Nation’s Debt Burden
Laos is undergoing an unprecedented level of macroeconomic stress and the pandemic has worsened an already fragile economic landscape.
Read more Savannakhet Districts Hit By Heavy Downpours, Floods
Many villages along the Xepon and Xebanghieng Rivers in Savannakhet province have been hit by flooding following heavy rain
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Laos Records US$762 Million Trade Value For August
Laos recorded a total trade value of US$762 million for imports and exports in August 2020, comprising US$377 million worth of exports while about US$384 million was expended on imported goods
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Tropical Cyclone Possible In Coming Days
An active low-pressure cell in the mid-South China Sea is likely to form into a tropical cyclone and move into southern Laos from October 9-11
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COVID-19 Pandemic Severely Impacts Lao Economy: ADB
Although Laos was able to dodge severe health impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic, the effect on the country’s economy, particularly on the tourism sector, is being projected to be devastating.
Read more Lao Airlines Issues Travel Requirements
Lao Airlines State Enterprise has issued travel advice for passengers wishing to use the airline to enter or exit Laos.
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End Of Buddhist Lent Culminates In Colourful Celebrations
Buddhists across the country spent two days taking part in colourful festivities to mark the end of Buddhism lent or Ork Phan Sa which concluded the three-month traditional rain retreat observed by monks.
Read more Lao Govt Eases Covid-19 Prevention Measures To Mitigate Economic Impact
The government has decided in principle to allow visits to Laos by tour groups from countries where there is no community outbreak of Covid-19
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Inflation Surges In August
The price of food and beverages increased by 9.91 percent year-on-year and 2.19 percent month-on-month
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Laos Backs Multilateralism To Address Global Challenges: PM
Lao Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith has voiced support for international cooperation under the United Nations framework
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Laos Credit Downgrade Signals ‘Real’ Default Risk As China Looms
Fitch Ratings has downgraded Laos’ rating to “CCC” from “B-,” meaning that the Southeast Asian nation faces “substantial credit risk” and that default is a “real possibility,”
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Thailand’s Sex Workers Petition To Decriminalise Prostitution
Thailand is predominantly Buddhist and deeply conservative, but is home to an extensive sex industry, largely catering to Thai men.
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Lao, Malaysian Foreign Ministers Discuss Repatriation Of Citizens
The Lao and Malaysian ministers of foreign affairs held talks last week to discuss ways to enable their respective citizens to return home after being stranded due to the Covid-19 pandemic
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How Fast Is the Gaming Market in SE Asia Growing?
Source: Laos News Gaming has grown immensely in popularity since the turn of the century, but how fast is it
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Business Operators Urge Cut In Transportation Costs
The business sector has requested the government find ways to reduce transportation and customs clearance costs to ensure that the collection of fees is done strictly under the Lao President’s Decree.
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