China Becomes Laos’ Top Investor
Chinese companies are currently investing in more than 900 development projects in Laos
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Business
Laos To Raise Value-Added Tax To Boost Revenue
The Lao Ministry of Finance has pointed to several factors in favor of raising the VAT rate.
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Laos and Singapore Have Reaffirmed Partnership in Trade and Investment.
During the official visit to Laos by a high-level Singaporean delegation, the two nation reaffirmed their partnership in the field of trade and investment.
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Vietnam Automaker Sends EVs To Laos For Electric Taxi Service
Vietnamese automaker VinFast on Friday sent 150 cars to neighbouring Laos for the launch of an electric taxi service
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Laos Economy Rising – Freight Train Service Inaugurated Between Shanghai and Vientiane
This train service, which links the China-Laos Railway and the Shanghai-Kunming Railway, will be operated both ways
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Heineken Laos Creates Beer Star Cube
Heineken Laos and Wunderman Thompson Thailand celebrate beer with ice culture.
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Lao & Chinese Businesses Seek More Benefits From the Railway
Businessmen of two neighboring country is seeking more project to venture as the trade progress since the opening of the railway.
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PM Vows Stronger Action to Improve Business Environment
PM has pledged to amend legislation to improve the business environment amid fierce international competition…
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Laos’ Energy Market: Current Trends and Future Outlook
The Lao government has set ambitious targets for renewable energy development…
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Has Laos Ensnared China In A ‘Creditor Trap?’ – Analysis
What if Laos has equally caught Beijing in a “creditor trap?”
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Laos to Require Registration of Import-Export Activities
Laos published a Decision on which requires importers and exporters to register their activities and related goods with MOIC.
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Business Sectors Seek Urgent Solution to Rampant Inflation
Business operators have called on the government to seek urgent solutions to tackle soaring inflation
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Lao, Chinese Businesses Seek to Boost Economic Activity and Promote Trade
Laos and China trading seek additional boost for Economic activity and trading.
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Construction of the City’s Tallest Building is 68% Complete
A five-star shopping mall and a hotel is set to open in time for the ASEAN Summit next year.
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Laos and Thailand Seek to Speed Up Cross-Border Freight Transport via Thanaleng Dry Port
Through the use of rail transport, Thai businesses have enjoyed faster and more direct shipment of goods, especially of fresh produce.
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“Laos’ BRI Projects Deliver Tangible Benefits, Not a Debt Trap” – Diplomat
The belt and road initiative is bringing tangible benefits for both countries and is not a debt trap according to chinese diplomat.
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Laos-China Railway Carries More Than 4 Million Tonnes of Freight
The amount of cross-border freight transported by the Laos-China Railway has risen to more than 4 million tonnes.
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Inflation Dips to 38.86% in May, Remains Unacceptably High
The year-on-year inflation rate dropped for the third month to 38.86 percent in May
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Investment in Concession Projects Drops, but Newly Registered Businesses Increase
While investment in concession operations and special economic zones dropped in Laos last year, the number of newly registered businesses has increased significantly
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Laos Government Reportedly Prioritizes Blockchain Technology for Digital Transformation
Laotian Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone chaired the inaugural Ministerial Conference on Blockchain 4.0 Digital Transformation.
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Laos’ Trade Deficit Hits 17Million USD in April
Laos registered a trade deficit of US$17 million in April, according to official statistics released on Tuesday.
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Newly Registered Enterprises in Laos Increased Sharply
The positive signals from the business registrations have proved Laos’s determination in bringing the economy to recover and develop.
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Govt. to Raise Monthly Minimum Wage to 1.3 Million KIP
An increase on the minimum salary wage will be implemented starting May 1.
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7eleven to Open 5 Stores in Laos in Mid-2023
Thailand’s CP ALL Public Company plans to launch 7-Eleven convenience franchise stores in Laos by mid-2023.
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Businesses Ordered to Relocate to Make Way for New Tourist Complex in Vang Vieng
Businesses around Vang Vieng old airport are asked to move out as the new tourist complex is about to start construction.
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Trade Officials, Market Owners Partner in Price Control Over Lao New Year
Trade Officials is working with food suppliers and market owners to set and observe appropriate prices over the Lao New Year holiday.
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Khuadin Market to Close for Redevelopment
The Khuadin Market in Vientiane will be undergoing renovation starting this April 2023.
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J&C Insurance Brokers Awarded Broker of the Year 2022
Rewarded as ‘Broker of the Year 2022’, J&C Insurance Brokers has been recognized for its industry-leading efforts to foster change and for its outstanding performance in 2022.
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The Influx of Chinese Merchants Means Tough Competition for Locals
Lao local businessmen are threatens with growing number of Chinese merchants with their expertise in trade and investment.
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Starbucks Expands Laos Network with Second Vientiane Store
Starbucks Laos opens its second store.
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Lao Garment Association Call for Reduction of Tax on Imported Raw Materials
Laos’ garment association has urged the government to reduce taxes on imported raw materials to lower production costs to make the industry more competitive.
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The Influx of Chinese Visitors Could Overwhelm Hospitality Sector Experts Say
Expert says that the hospitality sector may struggle to deal with the influx of Chinese visitors to the country.
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Japanese to Step Up Investments in Laos
Laos and Japan have affirmed their desire to further their economic and trade cooperation.
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Health Ministry Issues New Ruling to Keep Medicine Prices Affordable
Ministry of Health drop an ordinance to keep medicine pricing affordable.
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Chinese Tourists Fill Up Hotels in Northern Laos’ Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang is experiencing a surge of Chinese Tourist who visits the town.
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Laos Hopes That Business Will be Booming Again Soon
The country is looking forward for the boom of the businesses as more tourists starts to enter.
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Sithandone’s Khaen Twin Towers Construction Kicks Off
A groundbreaking ceremony was held for Khaen twin towers of the Sithandone Special Economic Zone in Khong, Champassak.
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Laos Biospring.LTD and Singapore Zen Science Announced New Joint Venture BioZEN Health
Laos Biospring.LTD and Singapore Zen science announced that the two parties have signed a joint venture company called BioZen
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U.S. Based Fiber Designer Brings Rare Indigo Made in Laos to Branford’s BACA Gallery
U.S. based fabric designer was so amazed with Laos textile and include the items as part of her new collections.
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ASEAN to Host 1st Regional Online Shopping Festival
ASEAN will host the first region-wide online shopping event in August 2023 to promote cross-border trade through e-commerce.
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Bank of the Lao PDR Regulates Currency Exchange Rates in Bid to Stabilize the Economy
BOL has issued a new decision on the setting of currency exchange rates, as a guideline for commercial banks trading in foreign currencies.
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Peugeot Brand to Launch in Laos
Premium French brand PEUGEOT expands to Laos as part of its Asean expansion strategy.
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Laos Tourism Number to Rise as Government Prepares for Return of Chinese Tourists
The Lao government and private sectors are actively preparing for the arrival of Chinese tour groups.
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Greener Trade and Investment is Key to the Future of Laos: ADB
Greener trade and investment is crucial to tackling climate change in Laos, and will require regional governments to work together more closely.
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Kakao Mobility to Enter Laos This Year
Kakao Mobility will establish a mobility platform in Laos and a service suited for the Laotian market this year with Vietnamese mobility firm LVMC Holdings.
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How To Register A Business: Laos Goes Online To Ease Start-Up Process
The steps needed to register a new business have now been posted online to ease business start-up, which will save time and simplify the process.
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No Progress On Northern Highway Sections, There Are Many Outstanding Tasks
Although its construction has been surveyed and studied for many years, the highway project has not progressed.
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More Money Needed For Payment Of Debt, Salaries, Development Schemes
The payment of government officials’ salaries, investment in development projects and repayment of debts constitute the largest portion of government expenditure allocated for 2023
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More Than 1,200 People Cross Laos-China Border In 2 Days
China has eased Covid-19 control measures after almost three years of travel restrictions
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Govt To Mobilise More Funds To Repay Debts, Address Fiscal Deficit
The government plans to mobilise 41.15 trillion kip to address the projected fiscal deficit and repay domestic and overseas loans by the end of 2023
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Despite High Economic Growth, Job Creation In Laos Remains Limited
Laos has recorded one of the highest rates of economic growth in South-East Asia over the past two decades, but few jobs have been created.
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Inflation In Laos Soars To Its Highest Rate At 39.27% In December
In December 2022, Laos set a new record for the highest inflation rate of the year
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Laos Sets Economic Growth Target Of 4.5% For 2023
Despite the global economic downturn, the National Assembly of Laos has set an economic growth target of at least 4.5% for 2023
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Govt Eyes 14.6% Revenue Increase From Tariff-Fees In 2023
To achieve this goal, the Ministry of Finance has pledged to modernise customs management systems at the main border checkpoints as part of efforts to plug loopholes resulting in financial leaks
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EDL Appoints Key Officials For Enterprise Reforms
“It is hoped the newly appointed officials will contribute to stronger business performance and get familiar with the new rules, conditions and environment for the reform process and apply the newly restructured working methods”
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Govt Eyes Tighter Regulation Of E-Commerce With Eye To Increased Revenue
The government is looking at ways to derive more financial benefit from e-commerce, hoping to better manage and develop this form of business in order to earn more revenue.
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Laos’ Inflation To Fall Sharply In 2023: ADB
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has forecast that the inflation in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) will average 23% in 2022 before falling to 10% in 2023
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Govt Struggles To Regulate Currency Exchange Rates
The continuing depreciation of the kip is creating a major roadblock in the government’s efforts to rein in inflation
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Gov’t Targets Reduced Inflation Rate Of 9 Percent In 2023
Skyrocketing inflation is causing great hardship and people are desperately wondering how they can survive as prices across all categories hit record highs.
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LTS Ventures Wins Global FINTECH Award
A microfinance platform helps to financially include 850 villages in Lao PDR
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Southeast Asia’s Russian Dilemma As Summits Loom
Southeast Asian countries look set to maintain ties with Russia as a trio of global summits loom, despite United States-led efforts to isolate Moscow over its Ukraine invasion
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China Remains Laos’s Largest Export Market
The main exports included copper, rubber, bananas, cassava and other agricultural products
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Lao Farm Products To Hit Shanghai Markets Under CIIE Deal
China has become a key export market for Lao goods, especially agricultural produce, following the opening of the Laos-China Railway at the end of 2021.
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Police Tackle Human Trafficking In Bokeo
The current situation in Laos mostly involves people being tricked into forced labour, forcing them to provide sexual services, hiring pregnant women, and the live broadcasting of male and female nudity and sex on social media
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Inflation Rate Jumps To 36.75 Percent In October
The price of food and non-alcoholic beverages has surged by 38.8 percent year-on-year, driven by the rising price of rice and other daily food items such as pork, poultry, fish, seafood, eggs, vegetable oil, fruit and vegetables
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Are Laos’ New Railways A Solution To Its Lack Of Trade With The West?
Transport costs are not the only problem facing the country, but reducing them could help spur progress in other areas.
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New Freight Station On The Laos-China Railway in Oudomxay Province Is Set To Boost Regional Trade
All seven freight stations on the Laos-China Railway are now operational following the opening of Xay station in Oudomxay province on Tuesday.
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Money Exchange Units Banned From Selling Foreign Currency
Under the new policy, money changers will be allowed to buy foreign currencies from customers but are forbidden to sell currencies other than kip
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Laos Launches Study On Electric 2-Wheelers
The Study examines the financial viability and environmental sustainability of implementing a battery swapping system model for electric two-wheelers in Vientiane, to help achieve the government’s 2030 target of 30 percent electric vehicle penetration
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ADB Projects Steady Recovery For Lao Economy In 2023
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) believes the Lao economy will see a gradual recovery next year, supported by new investment and higher renewable energy and mining output.
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Lao Central Bank Places New Banknotes In Circulation
The new banknotes can be used alongside the old 2003 notes, which will remain in circulation and can be used as normal.
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Companies Plan To Hire More Employees In 2023: Survey
The survey indicates that businesses main need are for accountants, followed by sales staff.
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Lao Economy Projected To Grow At Only 2.2 Percent This Year: IMF
The IMF’s downgraded growth for Laos is linked to both external and internal factors, with the report forecasting that global growth will decrease from 6.0 percent in 2021 to 3.2 percent in 2022 and 2.7 percent in 2023.
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50 Percent Of World’s Poorest Need Debt Relief To Prevent Major Crisis
Fifty-four developing economies, including Laos, that account for more than half of the world’s poorest people need urgent debt relief as a result of cascading global crises
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Inflation In Laos Hits 22-Year High
Inflation rate in Laos surged from 30.01% in August, 2022, to 34% in September
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Local Drivers Chafe At Costly Fees At Lao-China Railway Station
Drivers are charged high fees to enter the station even to deliver or pick up passengers.
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First-Ever Cryptocurrency Business Kicks Off In Laos
The bitqik platform provides full brokerage and trading services in cryptocurrencies and other digital assets, both within Laos and the region.
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World Trade Growth To Slow Sharply In 2023
World trade is expected to lose momentum in the second half of 2022 and remain subdued in 2023, as multiple shocks weigh on the global economy
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Weak Kip Harming Lao Economy
The currency devaluation is having a damaging effect on the Lao economy, driving up the price of products and creating more hardship for the poor.
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Lao Coffee Brand Wins Asian Award
Lao Mountain Coffee’s peaberry blend has won first place in the Continental Awards for Asia coffee competition.
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Some 700 Malaysians Trapped In Laos After Answering Casino Job Ads
Some 700 Malaysians are reportedly being held captive in Bokeo province, Laos and have been abused by the resort managers who are allegedly demanding a large ransom for their release
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Slower Growth Projected For Lao Economy: World Bank
Economic performance in Laos could be compromised by slowing global demand, rising debt, and a reliance on short-term economic fixes to cushion against food and fuel price increases
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Govt Pledges To Tackle Public Debt, Price Increases
The government has vowed to further address mounting public debt and the vulnerability of the macroeconomy to prevent the country from being dragged into default.
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Laos, Thailand, China To Build New Railway Bridge For Freight
Laos, Thailand, and China are thinking about building a new railway bridge, running parallel to the first Lao-Thai friendship bridge
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Economic Recovery In Laos Delayed Due To Rising Prices, Supply Disruptions: ADB
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has lowered its 2022 economic growth outlook for Laos to 2.5 percent from 3.4 percent projected in April and to 3.5 percent from 3.7 percent for 2023.
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PTT Focuses On Sustaining Its Business Operations
The company’s policy is linked to the unfavourable global economic outlook and continuing depreciation of the kip, which are impacting on businesses in Laos.
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Innovation Through Collaboration
DiscoverLaos and J&C Group have recently formed a new strategic partnership
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Laos-China Rail A Boon For Thais
Cross-border tourism flows increase, and fresh goods exports find new markets
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Major Thai Agencies Predicting Repeat of Bangkok’s “2011 Great Flood” – City Will Disappear Altogether By 2100 Unless Govt Acts
Some of the direst warnings in more than a decade have been issued from two major Thai sources regarding severe flooding this year in Bangkok, the Thai capital.
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Fitch Plans To Withdraw Ratings Of Laos
Fitch Ratings plans to withdraw the ratings on Laos in approximately 30 days from the date of this commentary for commercial reasons.
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Claims Of Default In Laos Are Bankrupt
Geo-economic factors mean that the concerns about Laos defaulting are unrealistic.
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Ride-Hailing Firm’s EV Answer To Inflation In Laos
“The EV is one of the keys to fight inflation,” Loca chief executive Souliyo Vongdala tells the Straits Times.
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Govt To Reform Lao Airlines
The government has set up a committee to carry out business reforms in the state-owned Lao Airlines to ensure that the national flag carrier becomes self-sustained in financial management.
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Lao Commerce Ministry Registers Rise In New Businesses
Retail and wholesale outlets together with car and motorbike repair businesses accounted for 29.4 percent of all new business registrations in the first six months of 2022.
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Luang Prabang Is Top Favourite With Thai Tourists
The town of Luang Prabang, which is renowned for Unesco’s listing of its old quarter as a world heritage site, has seen 90 per cent of room reservations made by Thai visitors since Laos lifted all entry restrictions in May.
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Laos Welcomes 42,197 Tourists In First Six Months Of 2022
Laos has seen a surge in the number of visitors following the lifting of travel restrictions in January as the Covid-19 pandemic subsided.
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Inflation In Laos Rises To 25.6 Pct In July
The higher prices of fuel and consumer goods and the continuing depreciation of the Lao currency kip are among the main factors driving the inflation.
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Association: Fuel Supply Will Be Normalised In The Near Future
The government is holding talks with the Lao Fuel and Gas Association over the possibility of importing another shipment of fuel, as it is expected that current stocks will be depleted by the end of this month,
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Laos Plans To Import Fuel From Saudi Arabia
The Lao government is committed to ensuring that sufficient supplies of fuel are provided to meet public demand and boost economic growth after a countrywide fuel shortage in May and June caused widespread disruption.
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Laos Among Countries With Highest Inflation In SE Asia
Laos has one of the highest inflation rates in the region, with the price rise recorded 23.6 percent year-on-year in June, according to ADB
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Rail Operator Increases Train Services
The lack of seats and the difficulty in obtaining tickets led passengers to make complaints on social media about the problems encountered, with many people having to wait for hours in long lines to buy tickets. This forced the company to expand its services.
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Will Laos Be Sanctioned For Embracing Russia?
The West has pressed Laos to ditch Russia and support its sanctions but the SE Asian nation has stayed true to its old Cold War ally
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Section II Of Lao-Thai Railway Delays Opening
The Phase II of the project comprises a 7.5km extension of the railway from the Thanalaeng station at the Thai border to the Vientiane station.
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Govt Pledges To Stabilise Macro Economy
The government pledged to ensure sufficient fuel is available by pursuing market-based mechanisms, saying this would minimise damage to the economy and small-scale commercial production.
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Just Scan To Pay: S’pore And 4 SEA Countries To Link QR Code Payments By Nov, Bypassing USD
The central banks of five Southeast Asian (SEA) countries have agreed to link their payment systems by November of this year, in order to allow for easier transactions for travellers within the region.
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Soaring Prices Put Squeeze On Low-Wage Earners
The year-on-year inflation rate hit 23.6 percent, the highest figure ever recorded since May 2000.
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Developing Asia’s Economic Outlook Downgraded As China Growth Slows
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has lowered its economic growth forecast for developing Asia including Laos to 4.6 percent this year, from 5.2 percent projected in April.
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Laos Dam Leaks Normal, Says Thai Partner
Reported leaks at the sides of the Nam Theun 1 Hydropower dam under construction in Laos were not a cause for concern and were normal when a dam began storing water
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Chinese Investors Buy Up More Land In Laos
Land surrounding a new railway station in the capital is in high demand, sources say.
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Laos To Raise Minimum Wage From August 1
The monthly minimum wage in the country will be increased to 1.2 million kip (US$78) starting on August 1.
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Why China Can’t Let Laos Default
Laos faces intensifying economic and financial crises and there is likely no way out without some form of a Chinese bailout or debt forgiveness.
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Why A Monopoly Like The Lao Electricity Company Is Making Losses
Electricite du Laos (EDL), a monopoly company which should generate a significant amount of revenue from its dominance in the energy market, has been operating at a loss for many years and has accumulated huge debts.
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Inflation Hits 22-Year High Of 23.6 Percent
The inflation rate in Laos hit 23.6 percent year-on-year in June, the highest figure ever recorded since May 2000 as surging prices of energy and consumer goods continue to deepen hardship and create new pains for the Lao public.
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New Rail Link To Speed Up Logistics, Transport Operations
A track change station was officially opened at the Vientiane Logistics Park on Friday, creating an official link between the Laos-China Railway and the Laos-Thailand Railway.
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PM: Embezzlement, Lax Management Key To Losses By State Enterprises
Embezzlement by executives and staff, combined with poor management, are the main reasons for the chronic losses suffered by state enterprises, the Prime Minister has told the National Assembly (NA).
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PM: Govt Mulls Curbs On Imports To Save Foreign Currency
The premier said changes to the quantity of vehicles, alcoholic beverages and other imported luxury items would be considered, so that shrinking foreign currency reserves could be kept for essential goods.
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Laos Installs New Central Bank Chief, Limits FX Sales
Laos lawmakers on Monday approved the appointment of a new central bank chief and two deputy prime ministers
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Laos Gives Green Light For Investment In EVs
The government’s policy for promoting EVs includes zero percent tariffs, an excise tax of only three percent and a value-added tax of seven percent in order to lower the prices of EVs
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Looming Debt Crunch Positions Laos As Next Possible Asia Default
Source: Bloomberg Laos, with dwindling cash reserves and surging inflation, is facing some of the same strains that pushed Sri
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Govt Eyes 4.4 Percent GDP Growth Despite Economic Woes
The Lao government will aim for Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth of at least 4.4 percent over the last six months of this year
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State Enterprise Reform: Some Now Profitable, Others Dissolved
Two banks previously owned by the state and which suffered chronic losses have begun making a profit following major reforms that saw a 70 percent stake in the banks sold to local investors
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China-Laos Railway Extending Through To Thailand
Expansion of the route makes Thailand a ‘China Plus One’ Option
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Central Bank Tightens Monetary Policy
The move is aimed at reducing the amount of money in circulation and curbing the spiralling inflation rate, which was recorded at 9.9 percent in April.
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What’s Causing The Currency Crisis In Laos?
Mounting foreign liabilities and thin foreign exchange reserves have left the nation of 7 million acutely vulnerable to global financial shocks.
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Thailand’s Personal Data Protection Law Comes Into Force On June 1
The law will provide assurance to members of the public that their personal data will be protected and will not be used by unauthorised people.
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Laos To Benefit As Pfizer Slashes Drug Prices For Poorest Nations
Pfizer Inc plans to sell its entire portfolio of brand-name drugs at cost in as many as 45 lower-income countries, including Cambodia and Laos, one of the most comprehensive and ambitious drug-access programmes ever announced by a large pharmaceutical manufacturer.
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Armed Robbers Attack Woman In Sikhottabong, Vientiane
The use of guns to commit crimes in Vientiane is becoming increasingly common, with most incidents occurring at night.
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Fuel Shortage Soon To Be Resolved, Lao Govt Says
The government says the fuel crisis will be resolved in the near future as it will provide Thai baht and US dollars to fuel importers by authorising additional foreign currency payments to oil companies so they can import more fuel.
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As Borders Reopen, Labor Shortage Looms In Laos’ SEZs
Lao workers are returning to Thailand where they can make more money.
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Lao Economy Grinding To A Halt As Fuel Crisis Deepens
A plummeting currency, dwindling foreign reserves, and a spike in global oil prices have led to shortages across the country.
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Businesses And People Hit By Depreciating Local Currency
The value of the Lao kip has dropped significantly since last year against the backdrop of volatility in the global fuel market due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
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J&C Insurance Brokers Awarded Top Selling Agent 2021
Named as ‘Top Selling Agent’, J&C Insurance Brokers was recognized for their exceptional performance in 2021 – by Lanexang Assurance!
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Fuel Shortage Causing Hardship For Lao People
Fuel shortages forced petrol stations in Vientiane and some provinces to close on Monday, with many of desperate motorists going from one station to another in the hope of filling up their tanks.
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Inflation Rate Closes In On Two Digits
The year-on-year inflation rate in Laos surged to 9.9 percent in April, the highest figure recorded since January 2016
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Govt Agrees In Principle To Raise Minimum Wage
The government has agreed in principle to increase the minimum wage in a bid to ease the hardships suffered by many people amid the rising cost of living.
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Laos Records Trade Surplus Of US$100 mn In March
Laos registered record two-way trade of US$1,100 million, including exports of US$600 million and imports worth approximately US$500 million, in March, resulting in a trade surplus of US$100 million.
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Broker of the Year 2021 – J&C Insurance Brokers Awarded
J&C Insurance Brokers is an award-winning and leading independent insurance specialist in Laos offering customer-tailored solutions.
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LoudChat: Laos Launch First Communication App
LoudChat, Laos’ first communication app was launched last week by the Ministry of Technology and Communications and Sirichalernxay Sole Co., Ltd.
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Laos Issues Tax Obligations for Non-Resident E-commerce and Digital Platform Providers, Joins Other ASEAN Markets
Under the new rules, non-resident e-commerce and digital platform providers must register for a tax identification number (TIN) via an online portal to file and pay their taxes. Further, they must register and pay value-added tax (VAT) if their annual revenue meets a certain threshold.
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Inflation Jumps To Record High
The year-on-year inflation rate in Laos surged 8.5 percent in March, even more than expected, and rose to the highest figure recorded since January 2016.
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Govt To Mull Cut In Excise Tax To Reduce Price Of Fuel
The government will consider cutting or even waiving excise tax on the price of imported oil, to reduce skyrocketing prices at petrol stations.
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World Bank Downgrades Lao Economic Growth Rate To 3.8 Percent
Laos’ economy is projected to expand by 3.8 percent in 2022, down from the 4.5 percent growth rate predicted in October last year, and 3.3 percent in the downside scenario, according to the World Bank’s latest report.
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Lao Govt Mulls Full Reopening For Foreign Tourists
The government is mulling full reopening of the country to foreign tourists after piloting the first phase of partial reopening for targeted groups of visitors.
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Updated Measures For Entering Thailand Announced, Starting April 1st
Travelers are no longer required to provide a negative RT-PCR test within 72 hours of departure. However, the RT-PCR test requirement for the on-arrival date remains unchanged.
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Low Minimum Wage Causing A Worker Shortage
The Lao Federation of Trade Unions (LFTU) has called on businesses, including garment factories, to pay workers the increased minimum wage, which rises from 1,100,000 kip to 1,500,000 kip per month this year.
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Inflation In Laos Higher Than GDP Growth
Inflation in Laos has surged higher than the projected rate for the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), sparking fears among many people regarding the impact on their living standards.
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Laos Fragrance Brand Scents Success In Hugely Competitive Market
Laos’ first perfume brand HSMM Fragrance launched two new scents – “Lady of Lao” and “Black Intense” – at the 2021 Outstanding Entrepreneurs “Made in Laos” Award ceremony held in Vientiane la
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Labour Ministry To Set Up Worker Database
A Labour Registration and Data Platform will be set up in Vientiane for the compilation of information concerning both Lao and foreign nationals working in Laos.
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Foreign Currency Deficit Among Economic Challenges Confronting Laos
Laos’ overall balance of payments situation is negative despite a trade surplus of US$1.32 billion in 2021 because foreign exchange inflows represent only 26.45 percent of the total export value.
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Inflation Jumps To Six-Year High Of 7.3 Percent
The year-on-year inflation rate jumped to 7.3 percent in February, the highest figure recorded in Laos since January 2016.
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Work On Vientiane-Vung Ang Railway Expected To Start In November
The railway, estimated to cost US$5 billion, is a proposed line that the Lao and Vietnamese governments have agreed to jointly develop. It would enable landlocked Laos to access the deep seaport – the closest feasible seaport to Vientiane.
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Exim Bank ‘Reckless’, Sought ‘Collateral Advantage’ When Selling Don Chan Palace Hotel, Rules Court
The properties included the Don Chan Palace Hotel, a 5-star international hotel constructed on a swathe of land measuring almost 176,000 sq metres along the Mekong River in Laos valued at US$140 million.
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Global Fuel Price Hike Affecting Oil Supply In Laos
The rise in price of imported fuel means that retail prices in Laos will inevitably continue to rise.
The price of oil is factored into the cost of production, meaning that product prices will also rise.
Laos Power Plant Deals In The Pipeline
Developers and operators of four hydroelectric power plants in Laos will sign power purchase agreements with energy policymakers in Laos and Thailand within May under a plan to promote more renewable energy.
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Fuel Price Hike Impacts Flights, Regular Transport Services Unchanged
Lao Airlines – the national flag carrier – has decreased domestic flights to balance its revenues and expenditure.
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Imperial Tobacco Accused Of Cheap Laos Product Deal
Imperial Tobacco has been accused of allowing a trade in cheap cigarettes in Laos through a special deal with the country’s government.
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Measures To Free Stranded Trucks, Rail Transport To China Outlined
Lao authorities will ask their Chinese counterparts to consider reopening more border crossings to allow trucks carrying goods to enter China as hundreds remain stranded at the Boten-Mohan crossing on the Laos-China border.
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Fuel Prices, Currency Depreciation Drive Up Inflation In Laos
Fuel prices have increased six times in a period of just two months and 10 days, sparking greater concerns about the rising cost of living in Laos.
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Lao Govt Sets Ambitious Trade Surplus Target
The government is aiming for a trade surplus of at least US$1.55 billion this year, despite the country’s economic difficulties triggered by the Covid pandemic.
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Minimum Wage Hike Still Problematic
Attempts to increase the minimum wage are meeting with resistance because of the impacts on businesses caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
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Tensions Among Truckers On Laos-China Border Again Erupt Into Fistfights
The latest melee began after a Chinese trader cleared the way for his Lao driver to cut ahead in line.
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New Affordable Treatment Available For Covid In Laos
A drug to treat Covid-19 in Laos will soon be available in the form of Molacovir, at a relatively cheap price and with guaranteed quality.
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Laos’ Expensive Gamble On Electricity May Dim Its Economic Future
Laos took on huge debt to become the “Battery of Southeast Asia,” but sales are not as robust as hoped.
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Lao Govt Launches Online Visa Application Portal As Covid Curbs Eased
The Lao government has launched an online visa application portal to ease entry procedures for foreign nationals and Lao nationals living overseas.
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Inflation Rate In Laos Hits Highest Point In 2 Years
The year-on-year inflation rate in Laos jumped to 6.25 percent in January, the highest figure recorded since January 2020.
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Laos-China Railway To Operate Additional Train
The Laos-China Railway Company has announced it will operate a slower-speed train in addition to the two existing high-speed EMU trains to meet the growing needs of passengers.
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Rising Inflation Sparks Public Concern
In the past 42 days, fuel prices have risen four times, causing heated debate among members of the public who are increasingly concerned about the spiralling cost of consumer goods.
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Laos Records Trade Surplus Of US$41 Million In January
Laos recorded a trade surplus of US$41 million in the first month of this year, with China continuing to be the country’s largest export market.
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Huge Truck Backlog At Chinese Border Due To Covid Screening
Hundreds of trucks loaded with goods are stranded at the Boten-Mohan crossing on the Laos-China border, with strict Covid screening procedures causing long delays.
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NTP Launches Free Fuel Delivery Service
The Ministry of Industry and Commerce has authorised NTP Public Company to launch a free-of-charge fuel delivery service so that members of the public can receive the best service and cut travel costs, amid record high fuel prices.
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Laos Recorded Trade Surplus Of US$1 billion In 2021
China topped the list of five main countries for exports with a figure of US$ 2,221 million, and the others were Thailand (US$ 2,187 million), Vietnam (US$ 1,220 million), Australia (US$ 348 million), and Switzerland (US$ 116 million).
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Laos Has Second Highest Inflation Rate In Asean
Laos is suffering from one of the highest inflation rates in the region, raising concerns as the population suffers from financial hardship
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Laos To Raise Monthly Minimum Wage To $134
Policymakers in Laos are studying a proposal to rise the country’s minimum wage as inflation and an increasing cost of living bites particularly low-earners
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Inflation In Laos Jumps To Highest Point In 15 Months
The prices of goods and services in Laos continue to rise at a rate unseen since August 2020, increasing by 5.27 percent in December last year when compared to the figures for the same period in 2020.
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Govt Vows To Slash Red Tape, Boost Revenue
The government has pledged to remove barriers that hinder business operations in Laos while speeding up bitcoin mining by authorised companies.
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Lao Govt Bans Import Of Cattle, Pigs, Goats, Chickens, Freshwater Fish And Other Agricultural Products
The government has banned the import of certain types of agricultural produce, livestock and fish, aimed at spurring the farming of these crops and animals in Laos to boost the economy and generate more revenue for farmers.
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Congratulations To The J&C Lucky Draw Winners !
At the end of last year, we were proud to make some people happy under their masks by providing them
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Thai Company To Spend US$1 billion On Lao Smart City
Amata Corporation, a major industrial estate developer in Thailand, plans to invest US$1 billion in the construction of the Amata Smart and Eco City in northern Laos.
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BOL Issues Licences For Cryptocurrency Exchange Platforms
The Bank of the Lao PDR (BOL) has issued licences authorising two companies to trade in cryptocurrencies, namely Lao Digital Assets Exchange (LDX) and Bitqik.
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Phongsavanh Group Breaks Ground For Smart City Development Project
Phongsavanh Group Co., Ltd. (PSVG) on Thursday held a groundbreaking ceremony to start construction of a model modern city project named ‘the Smart City Development Project’ at the Vientiane Industry Zone.
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Declining Coffee Production In Laos Needs Urgent Attention: LCA
The Lao Coffee Association (LCA) is worried about a steep decline in coffee production and a gradual increase in prices of the commodity.
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World Bank Optimistic About Growth Of Lao Economy
The World Bank has predicted that Laos will see economic growth of 4.5 percent in 2022 and 4.8 percent in 2023 despite projected slower growth of the global economy.
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Laos Sees Rise In Trade Value, But Deficit Persists
The total value of goods imported and exported by Laos in December rose to over US$1.1 billion
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Govt Inks Deal On Electronic Civil Management System
The government is developing an electronic civil registration and vital statistics system to increase capacity to collect demographic statistics and produce and disseminate reliable and timely socio-economic and poverty information.
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J&C Group Celebrates Successful Year By Awarding Team Members
It was another incredible year for our J&C Group with lots of challenges and achievements!
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Public Works Ministry Sets Water Rates For 2022
Water suppliers will set different rates according to the volume used by a household
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Commerce Ministry Encourages Copyright Registration
Source: Vientiane Times All commodities produced in Laos will have copyright protection under the Property Law after it has been
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Laos Records A Trade Deficit Of US$131 Million In November
The Lao PDR’s international trade volume for November reached US$912 million with exports valued at US$390 million and imports estimated at US$521 million
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VAT Reduced To 7% Under Amendments To Lao Tax Laws
The applicable VAT rate on importing goods and supply of goods and general services will be reduced from 10% to 7% from January 1, 2022
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Govt To Remove Difficulties Hampering Exports To China
The pandemic has led to Chinese authorities putting in place strict measures to monitor drivers and cargo bound for China. This has resulted in thousands of cargo vehicles on both sides of the border facing long waits.
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Laos Adopts New Measure To Combat Corruption: Party Expulsion
Officials dismiss nine government employees who embezzled funds in Bokeo province.
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Green Travel Zones Of Laos Ready To Welcome Visitors
Several tourist sites located within green travel zones in provinces across Laos are ready to welcome visitors from next month under “new normal” conditions amid the Covid-19 pandemic.
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Luang Namtha Bans Trucks Amid Huge Backlog Awaiting Entry To China
About 350 trucks have been arriving at the Boten checkpoint each day but Chinese authorities are allowing only 150 to cross the border.
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Korean Company To Carry Out Feasibility Study For Upgrade Of Luang Prabang International Airport
The government has given the green light to the Korea Airport Corporation (KAC) to carry out a feasibility study for the upgrade of Luang Prabang International Airport
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Despite COVID-19, China Expects 1 Mln Passenger Trips On New Laos Rail Link
China expects more than 1 million passenger trips to be made on a newly opened high-speed rail link to Laos during the peak Lunar New Year travel season early next year, despite COVID-19 travel restrictions.
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Lao Economy Expected To Grow 4.2 Percent Next Year
The Lao economy is projected to grow by 4.2 percent in 2022, driven by commercial production for exports and opportunities and benefits arising from the Laos-China Railway.
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Laos Records Trade Deficit Of US$336 Million
Despite racking up a trade deficit of US$336 million in the first 11 eleven months of 2021, the government is hopeful that its planned trade targets will be reached by the end of year.
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Over 5,500 People Travel On Railway Since Inauguration
Over 5,500 people have bought tickets to travel on the Laos-China railway in the first five days since passenger services were offered starting on December 4.
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First Cold-Chain Train Launched On China-Laos Railway
It is the first train involved in cold-chain logistics on the 1,035-km China-Laos Railway, a landmark project of high-quality Belt and Road cooperation
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Domestic Rail Services To Begin On December 4
To begin with, tickets will be on sale at railway stations but will not be available online, and travel will be limited to destinations within Laos because of the ongoing Covid-19 outbreak
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