36 Tea Garden Wins Gold Award At World Tea Contest
The 36 Tea Garden in Pakxong district, Champassak province, has won first place in the category of Black Tea, winning a gold award at the World Tea Championship Competition.
Read more
Investments
Covid-19 Delays Economic Recovery In Laos: ADB
The unanticipated Covid-19 pandemic has delayed economic recovery in Laos, with consumption hit hard by the virus control measures implemented since April
Read more
Laos Pushes Into Crypto As It Authorises Mining And Trading
Laos has authorised the mining and trading of cryptocurrencies, in a policy shift by the debt-laden south-east Asian nation that positions it to profit from the crackdown on digital currency mining in China.
Read more
Giant Buddha Statue Plan Rankles Residents of Laos’ Capital
A Chinese firm’s plans to build a 100-meter-high Buddha statue in low-lying Vientiane encapsulate China’s outsized economic presence in Laos
Read more
Multiple-Entry Visas Offered To People Of Lao Descent Living Abroad
The government has promulgated a new regulation that offers multiple-entry visas with longer stays for people of Lao origin those who hold another crtizenship and are residents in other countries.
Read more
Lao Startups Facing Challenges
Lao startups are facing challenges in their efforts to help strengthen the national economy, including a lack of legislation that supports their set up and administration, with little incentive from the government.
Read more
Chinese Investments In Laos Soar, But Little Wealth Is Spread
Not counted is the cost in damage to the country’s environment and Lao citizens’ loss of homes and livelihoods, experts say.
Read more
Laos Records Lowest Trade Deficit, US$24 Million In August
Laos registered a record low trade deficit of US$24 million in August compared to the previous records of the year, with the two-way trade value amounting to US$880 million
Read more
Opening Of New Office Building At J&C Group
Just after only 3 months of construction, the J&C Group teams were able to move into modern and bright offices. The new office building are designed to accommodate the various companies operating under the J&C Group umbrella.
Read more
World Bank To Support Land Administration, Titling In Lao PDR
Land holders across Lao PDR, including some of the most vulnerable households, are expected to benefit from improved land administration and titling thanks to a project approved by the World Bank this week.
Read more
Economic Fallout From Covid Deepens: World Bank Survey
he economic fallout in Laos over the second quarter of this year as employment fell off sharply and households and businesses suffered declining income and revenue
Read more
Laos Records Highest Trade Deficit Of US$99 Million In July
Laos registered a record trade deficit of US$99 million in July, with exports valued at US$374 million and imports at a US$473 million, comprising a total two-way trade value of US$847 million.
Read more
Kasemrad International Hospital Opens In Vientiane
The new Kasemrad International Hospital Vientiane (KIH Vientiane), now the largest private hospital in Laos, has opened to provide comprehensive medical services to patients around the clock
Read more
Govt Reveals Debt Payment Plan
Revenue earned from potential mining operations, revamped state enterprises and from other as yet untapped sources will be used to pay debts amounting to almost US$14 billion
Read more
Govt Proposes Income Tax Revisions To National Assembly
The Ministry of Finance has revised several articles of the Law on Income Tax, to enable businesses to operate
Read more
US Has Opportunity To Establish Stronger Economic Ties With Laos
The United States has an opportunity to reset its relationship with Laos and establish a future-oriented partnership based on economic development to offer a complement to Chinese influence.
Read more
Thai Baht Could Sink Even Further, Analyst Warns
Thailand’s baht could weaken further after reaching its lowest point since late 2017 level of 33 baht per USD, an analyst at Krungsri Securities said on Wednesday, as the economy is challenged by its most severe Covid-19 outbreak so far.
Read more
Govt No Longer Accepting Iron Ore Pilot Project Proposals
New proposals for the survey, extraction and export of iron ore in the form of pilot projects will no longer be considered, the Prime Minister’s Office has announced.
Read more
Laos Faces Spiralling Budget Deficit
The escalating deficit will ramp up the government’s public debt burden, posing challenges for Laos in sourcing more funding to address the shortfall.
Read more
Laos Issues E-commerce Regulations
Laos is making strides toward providing clear legal guidance for e-commerce operations by issuing legal measures to facilitate the regulation of online business activities.
Read more
Can China’s Belt and Road Open Up Landlocked Laos?
As a 420 km high-speed railway nears completion, two Chinese-built highways have been given the green light. Will these projects open up Laos, or make it a crossing point on China’s Belt and Road?
Read more
Once Asia’s Top Performer, The Thai Baht Is Now Becoming The Region’s Worst-Hit Currency
The Thai baht, once the strongest-performing currency in Asia before the pandemic, has been steadily falling in 2021 and is this year’s worst-hit currency in the region
Read more
J&C Insurance Brokers To Provide Contractor’s All Risk Insurance For The New Korean Embassy!
The Korean government through Samwhan Lao Sole Co., Ltd trusts the professionalism and the high-end services provided by J&C Insurance Brokers.
Read more
Laos Records US$932 Million Trade Value In June
Laos saw a record US$932 million in the value of imports and exports for June, but recorded a trade deficit of US$62 million
Read more
More Workers Needed For Lao Garment Industry
The garment industry in Laos requires more workers, both skilled and unskilled, with almost all garment factories in Vientiane now reopening as lockdown restrictions are lifted.
Read more
LCB’s Depositors To Be Repaid
Officials of the Bank of Lao PDR (BOL) have confirmed that customers or depositors of the Lao Construction Bank Limited (LCB) will be repaid once data of the bank’s depositors are provided.
Read more
Covid Restrictions Extended, Some Lifted To Ease Economic Impacts
The surge in imported cases of Covid-19 has prompted the government to extend the virus control measures outlined in Prime Ministerial Order No. 15 for another 15 days until August 3.
Read more
Nam Theun 2 Shareholders, Govt Partner In World’s Largest Hybrid Floating Solar Project
The government and shareholders in the Nam Theun 2 hydropower plant have agreed to develop Nam Theun 2-Solar, the largest hybrid floating solar project in the world.
Read more
Laos, Russia Agree To Cement Ties, Broaden Cooperation
Lao and Russian foreign ministers have agreed that both sides will work together to cement ties and broaden cooperation between their two countries.
Read more
Laos To Sell Vietnam Its Wind Power With Mitsubishi’s Help
Japanese trading conglomerate Mitsubishi Corp. will develop a massive onshore wind farm in Laos that will supply electricity to Vietnam.
Read more
First Laos Green Coffee Competition is Underway
The first green coffee competition ever to take place in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic is underway, part of a broad multi-stakeholder effort to boost the country’s agricultural sector and forge international market connections.
Read more
Laos Grapples With Rising Inflation
The consumer price index has continued to surge despite measures imposed by the government to manage the prices of goods in local markets.
Read more
Govt Approves Bokeo-Boten Expressway Linking China, Thailand
The government has approved the construction of an expressway running between Bokeo province and Boten, which will link China and Thailand through Laos.
Read more Laos’ trade deficit exceeds US$54 million in May
China is the largest market for Lao exports, while Thailand remains one of Laos’ main importing countries with imports reaching a record value of US$227 million in May.
Read more
First Train Test On Laos-China Railway Planned For August
The first trial run of a train on the under-construction Laos-China railway is scheduled to take place in August.
Read more
Laos Voices Appreciation Of Asia-Europe Partnership
Laos values the Asia-Europe Partnership as an important forum for promoting cooperation and understanding between the peoples of the two regions.
Read more
Laos Sets Out Rules for Securing Investment Promotion Incentives
Laos has issued important new guidelines on obtaining investment promotion incentives in the country.
Read more
State, Private Sectors Set Up Joint Venture Dry Port Company To Develop Lao Logistics
A joint venture agreement was signed in Vientiane on June 10 to establish Thakhek Dry Port Co Ltd, which will develop “Thakhek Dry Port” as a gateway for international goods and encourage Laos to become a regional and international logistics service centre.
Read more
Coffee Set To Boost Laos-EU trade
The value of coffee sold by Laos to the European (EU) market is likely to increase thanks to additional EU support for the trade.
Read more
Laos Govt Approves Vientiane-Pakse Expressway Route Selection
The Lao government has recently approved the route selection for Vientiane-Pakse Expressway Project recommended by a Chinese engineering company.
Read more
Ministry Issues New Guidance To Tackle Corruption, Bureaucratic Malpractices
Authorities have issued a new guidance to prevent officials in-charge of natural resources and environment affairs from committing corruption and bureaucratic malpractices.
Read more
Finance Ministry Suspends & Waives Tax Payments
The Ministry of Finance, on behalf of the government, has issued an instruction on the suspension and waiver of income tax payments as well as postponement of the payment of the annual road tax for 2021.
Read more Hopes Rise For End To Lockdown As Covid Cases Dwindle
Lao people are hoping that the government will be able to control the spread of Covid-19 after only one new case of the virus was reported on Monday.
Read more
Vientiane-Pakxe Expressway Awaiting Govt Approval
Construction of the Vientiane-Pakxe expressway will go ahead after the government gives the green light for the proposed route, when feasibility studies on all sections of the highway will begin.
Read more
Korea Airports Corporation To Enter Korea’s First Airport Development Project In Laos
The Ministry of Planning and Investment of Laos selected Korea Airports Corporation as a feasibility study provider for the Luang Prabang airport development project.
Read more
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.
Read more
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.
Read more
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.
Read more
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
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
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
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.
Read more
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.
Read more
Railways To Help Laos’ Businesses Blossom
Once opened, the Laos-China Railway promises to be a significant engine of business development in Laos.
Read more
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.
Read more
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.
Read more
Handicraft Designers Pledge To Protect Traditional Designs
Better knowledge of copyright and trademarks has become necessary in the traditional handicraft industry.
Read more
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.
Read more
Lao Govt To Address Seven Urgent Issues To Spur Development
Newly-elected Prime Minister Phankham Viphavanh highlighted the seven concerns
Read more
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
Read more
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″
Read more
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.”
Read more
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.
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
Read more
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
Read more
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
Read more
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
Read more
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.
Read more
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!
Read more 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.
Read more
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
Read more
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.
Read more 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
Read more
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.
Read more
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
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.
Read more
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.
Read more
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.
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.
Read more
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.
Read more
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.
Read more
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.
Read more
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.
Read more
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
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.
Read more
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.
Read more
“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.
Read more
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.
Read more
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.
Read more 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.
Read more
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.
Read more
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.
Read more
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
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.
Read more
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
Read more
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.
Read more
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.
Read more
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.
Read more
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
Read more
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
Read more
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.
Read more
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.
Read more
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
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
Read more
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,”
Read more
Laos-China Railway On Track Despite Covid-19 Pandemic
Construction of the Laos-China railway is progressing as planned despite the obstacles posed by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Read more
Laos The Latest China Debt Trap Victim
Laos set to cede majority control of its national power grid to China to service Belt and Road debts
Read more
Lao Govt Partners With Hi-tech Company In Land Surveys
Lao Govt and Space Eye Lao Co., Ltd. (Spel) will partner in the study and development of a modern land management system in Laos using digital technology.
Read more
Lane Xang Minerals Resumes Operation At Sepon Mine
The primary gold project is expected to generate about US$30 million in government revenue and economic benefits
Read more
EDL, CSG Sign Agreement To Establish Transmission Line Firm
EDLT plans to invest about US$2 billion in building Laos’ national backbone power grid and cross-border power grid interconnection for Laos and its neighbouring countries
Read more
Laos Faces Sovereign Default As Forex Reserves Dip Below $1bn
The country’s foreign exchange reserves have fallen below $1bn, less than Laos’ annual debt payments
Read more
Laos To Lose Favourable Trading Status After LDC Graduation
Laos could face a trade loss of US$102 million under the special tariff scheme if the country graduates from the UN’s Least Developed Country (LDC) status in 2024
Read more
Lao Telecom Officially Launches 5G System
Lao Telecommunications Public Company (Lao Telecom) has officially launched the 5G system, which is the first network in Laos.
Read more
7-Eleven Signs Agreement with CP ALL to Operate 7-Eleven Stores in Laos
The first 7-Eleven-branded convenience store in Laos is expected to be open in Vientiane
Read more
Laos To Lose US$483mil In Export Revenue Over COVID-19
The country is still facing a huge trade deficit
Read more Inflation In Laos Remains Sore Point For The Poor
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) remains high in Laos despite the government increasing measures to curb rising prices at Lao markets.
Read more Garment Makers To Focus On Domestic Market As Foreign Orders Slump
The Lao garment industry is in a slump following a significant drop in orders from foreign countries due to the Covid-19 pandemic and must now rely on the domestic market to sustain its long-time workforce.
Read more
Foreigners Permitted To Purchase Limited Ownership Of Land-Use Rights – Amended Lao Land Law
Today sees the entry into force of the new Law on Land No. 70/NA dated 21 June 2019 (the “2019 Land Law”), which among other things, includes new provisions concerning the limited ownership of land-use rights by foreigners under certain circumstances, and the limited ownership of individual units in a condominium or apartment building.
Read more
Land Disputes Remain A Challenge For Vientiane Authorities
Land disputes have become one of the most difficult issues for authorities in the national capital because of growing demand for land
Read more
Cabinet Instructs Business-Friendly Policy Improvements, Tightening Of Border Crossings
Chaired by Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith, the two-day meeting told officials in charge to improve policies to promote small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
Read more
Fiscal Deficit Ramps Up Pressures On Lao Government
An elevated fiscal deficit will result in growing public debt, which will ramp up pressure on the country’s debt servicing capacity amid the Covid-19 crisis.
Read more
Vinamilk Poured An Additional $ 41 Million Into The Dairy Project In Laos
Vinamilk’s investment capital in Lao-Jagro has increased from 25.4 million USD to 66.4 million USD. Additional capital increased to build the first two farms in the complex of high-tech dairy farms in Laos.
Read more
Moody’s Downgrades Laos’s Rating To Caa2, Outlook Changed To Negative
Moody’s Investors Service (“Moody’s”) has downgraded the Government of Laos’s issuer rating to Caa2 from B3 and changed the outlook to negative.
Read more
Govt, GIZ Launch Project To Promote SMEs
The project will focus on Promotion of Strengthening Regional Structures for Small and Medium Enterprise Promotion in Asean.
Read more
Inflation Rises In Laos Amidst Covid Pandemic
The inflation rate is increasing in Laos despite the government’s measures to regulate the prices of goods in the local markets.
Read more
Top 3 Expos Of Laos Postponed To 2021 Due To Covid-19 Crisis
The organisers of the top three expos of Laos have announced that LaoBuild 2020, Lao Food & Hotel 2020 and LaoCafe 2020 have been rescheduled to June 17-19, 2021 in line with the government’s Covid-19-related restrictions.
Read more
Laos Toughens Anti-Money Laundering Measures
Source: Vientiane Times The National Committee for anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CTF) has reviewed the progress of preparations
Read more
Vientiane Architecture & Housing over the years… (p1)
Mr. Somphonsack Phayouphorn is a Swiss-Lao architect living in Vientiane. Born in Luang Prabang, he grew up and studied architecture,
Read more
Private Hospital Project In Need Of Foreign Skilled Workers
The Covid-19 crisis resulted in an indefinite delay for the project to build the largest private hospital in Laos.
Read more
COVID-19: Will AirAsia Be The Next Airline To Fold?
Auditors Ernst & Young noted the “existence of material uncertainties that may cast significant doubt on the group’s and the company’s ability to continue as a going concern.”
Read more
Processing Factories Struggle To Stay Afloat
Many manufacturers in Laos are facing challenges to stay afloat even as the government has given them the nod to resume business.
Read more
Laos Suffering From Limited Sources Of Foreign Currency
Source: Vientiane Times Laos needs at least US$4 billion in foreign currencies to purchase goods from other countries each year,
Read more
Laos: Decision On Trademark Registration Process
The Decision brings clarity to certain important provisions of the Amended Law on Intellectual Property No. 38/NA, published in May 2018.
Read more
Laos To Establish Centre For Food Quality
Source: The Star Laos will establish the National Center for the Quality Inspection of Foodstuff and Beverage to ensure the
Read more
PRI·MED Medical Products Announces New Medical PPE Manufacturing Facility in Laos
PRI·MED Medical Products (PRI·MED), a worldwide leader in manufacturing single-use medical personal protective equipment (PPE) including face masks, gowns and examination gloves – has today announced the development of a new manufacturing facility in Vientiane, Laos
Read more
One-Stop Service ‘Still Can’t Be Implemented’: DPM
The one-stop service introduced by the government to enable the completion of service procedures at one location is still not implemented effectively
Read more
Laos’ Revenues From Coffee Rise Despite Reduction In Plantations
The value of coffee exported by Laos increased as the price of local coffee beans was better this year
Read more
More Restaurants Resume Services, Some Remain Closed
Several restaurants in Vientiane and tourist destinations across Laos continue to be closed after suspending operations several months ago due to the Covid-19 crisis, and some operators are now seeking new ways to earn a living.
Read more
Laos Has Avoided A Major Health Crisis, Yet To Be Immune To Global Economic Downturn
The Lao PDR has so far avoided a major health crisis but has not been immune from the global economic downturn as the COVID-19-induced economic recession has affected the country through multiple channels including tourism, trade, investment, commodity prices, exchange rates, and lower remittances.
Read more
Vientiane-Vangvieng Expressway Over 70 percent Complete
Source: Vientiane Times Construction of a 113.50-km expressway linking Vientiane and Vangvieng is now over 70 percent complete and authorities
Read more
Singapore Firm To Build US$1.7 billion Coal Power Plant In Laos
Laos has approved a Singapore energy firm’s plan to build a 1,000 MW coal-fired power plant in the southern province of Sekong.
Read more
Real Estate Market Expected To Drop Sharply This Year
The real estate market in Laos is expected to decline by 15 percent to 20 percent this year because of the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and a continuing economic slowdown.
Read more
Nikon Lays Off 700 Workers In Laos and Thailand As Part Of “Structural Reform”
Nikon Corporation has announced that they’ve reduced the number of employees in their Imaging business by 700 at its factories in Thailand and Laos – around 10% of their workforce in each of those locations.
Read more
Mass Unemployment The New Normal In SE Asia
A new International Labor Organization report suggests that more than one in six young people worldwide has stopped working since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, while the rest have seen their working hours cut by almost a quarter.
Read more
Gradual Reopening Of Int’l Borders
39 days no infections prompts gradual reopening of int’l borders
Read more
Little Laos Teeters Towards Big Debt Crisis
Laos will be hard-pressed to meet its external debt obligations
Read more
Lao Economy Needs Cash Injection
The government needs to speed up the provision of the loans it has approved as this is one of the best ways to help Lao businesses survive amid the Covid-19 pandemic
Read more Unemployment Spirals Due To Covid-19 Outbreak
The perennial challenge of unemployment in Laos has been further exacerbated by the Covid-19 outbreak as large numbers of people have been laid off from their jobs.
Read more
Fitch Revises Laos’ Outlook to Negative, Affirms Rating at ‘B-‘
Fitch Ratings has affirmed Laos’ Long-Term Foreign-Currency Issuer Default Rating (IDR) at ‘B-‘ and revised the Outlook to Negative from Stable.
Read more
Government Introduces Three-Step Business Start-Up Process
The government has introduced the three-step Business Start-up process for registration of enterprises that will facilitate entrepreneurs, and reduce time and unnecessary costs.
Read more
Work Completed On Laos’ Third Longest Tunnel For Railway Link With China
Work on the country’s third longest tunnel at Namor district in Oudomxay province, which is part of the Laos-China Railway Project and has a length of 9020 metres, has been completed.
Read more Factories, Businesses To Operate Amid Lockdown
Factories and businesses at the heart of the Lao economy will be able to resume their operations amid the extended lockdown ordered by the Prime Minister to combat the Covid-19 pandemic.
Read more
Lao Tourism Income To Decline At Least US$350 Million In 2020
Laos is expecting tourism revenues to fall by at least US$350 million (3,111 billion kip) this year with the sector to cut 2 percent off the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP).
Read more
Thailand Warns Food Delivery Apps For Overcharging Amid Coronavirus Outbreak
Thailand’s anti-monopoly watchdog warned food delivery platforms they could face fines for charging higher commissions
Read more Trade Deficit Spikes In March
Laos recorded a trade deficit of US$118 million in March, which was higher than the figures for January and February.
Read more
Tax Update: Postponement Of The Filing Due Date of Financial Statements for 2019
The filing due date of the financial statements for 2019 is postponed to 30 April 2020
Read more
Thai Economic Outlook Among Asia’s Weakest
Thailand is preparing to restrict some aspects of daily life after the country’s biggest spike in coronavirus cases, further damaging one of Asia’s weakest economic outlooks.
Read more
Tesco Sells Businesses in Thailand, Malaysia for US$10.6b
Tesco, Britain’s biggest retailer, is selling its businesses in Thailand and Malaysia to Thailand’s CP Group entities for an enterprise value of US$10.6bil.
Read more
Laos To Increase Domestic Distribution Of Electricity
Coverage by the national power grid is still limited due to a lack of funding for power grid development
Read more
Idle Factories, Empty Trade Zone Highlight Coronavirus Impact on Southeast Asia
China-dependent countries feel fallout in tourism, manufacturing, and exports.
Read more
Chinese Allegedly Run Illegal Car Rental and Taxi Businesses in Laos
Chinese entrepreneurs in Laos’ capital Vientiane are allegedly importing vehicles from China illegally for car rental and taxi businesses, much to the ire of their Lao competitors
Read more
Value Of Imports Dips, Trade Deficit Plummets In Laos
The top five categories of imported goods were construction equipment, fuel and gas, items used in industry, electronic products, vehicle parts, and food.
Read more
Laos Growth Resilient Despite Economic Headwinds
Despite a new set of challenges like the long dry season, Covid-19 outbreak, and US-China trade war, Laos looks set to enjoy stable growth of at least 6 per cent, possibly 6.3-6.4 per cent.
Read more
Work On Vientiane Expressway No. 1 Project Begins
Construction of the mega Vientiane Expressway No. 1 officially began yesterday, with the project aiming to ease traffic congestion and respond to economic growth in the Lao capital.
Read more
J&C Group Inaugurates Additional Office Space
With these new offices now-up-and-running, we invite our clients to come and visit us at anytime. The team would be happy to host you and discuss any needs that you may have.
Read more
How’s the Real Estate Market These Days?
How’s the Real Estate Market These Days?
This must be the most common question real estate agents get when meeting people.
Lao Service Sector To Lose US$ Millions From Coronavirus Fallout: Economist
Laos stands to lose US$250 million to US$300 million in first-quarter revenue from the service sector, including tourism, due to fallout from the coronavirus outbreak
Read more
Water Treatment Extension Plant To Boost Supply In Vientiane
The Dongbang water treatment extension plant is to be built in Xaythany district, Vientiane with aid from Hungary
Read more
BOL Launches QR Code Payment Standard
The Bank of the Lao PDR (BOL) makes a soft launch of the Lao QR Code standard for payments
Read more
PM Demands Faster Business Licence Approval
Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith told his cabinet to take steps to expedite the approval of investment and business operation licences
Read more
Laos To Open Pang Mon Border Checkpoint Feb 1
Laos will open the Pang Mon checkpoint in Sayaboury province opposite Thailand’s Ban Huak checkpoint in Phu Sang district
Read more
Experts Recommend Policy, Technical Standards For Electric Vehicles In Laos
Experts met to make recommendations on policies and technical standards in the transition from internal combustion engine vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs).
Read more
Laos Dairy Buffalo Challenge
In an extraordinary example of applied capacity building, Australian businesswoman Susie Martin is leading the way in helping one of South East Asia’s poorest countries set about improving its food production systems.
Read more
Handing Over The Reins At J&C Insurance
This week, Mr. Stephan R. Aeschbach handed over the reins of J&C Insurance to Mr. Fabrice Decico.
Read more
Laos Urged To Think Beyond Being A Land Bridge Country
The government must employ concrete measures to implement its policy on transformation of the country from landlocked to a land bridge,
Read more
The New Face Of J&C
J&C Services will now be known as the J&C Group. Under this identity, we have several departments mainly Insurance, Marketing, Real Estate, and Investments, etc.
Read more
China’s Central Bank Signs Currency Settlement Agreement With Laos
China and Laos have signed an agreement on bilateral monetary cooperation to enhance the use of local currencies in trade and investment,
Read more
Power Usage In Laos Predicted To Soar To 1,800MW In 2020-25
The Ministry of Energy and Mines has predicted that the demand for electricity in Laos will increase to 1,800MW during the period 2020-2025,
Read more
Energy And Mines To Remain Key Boosters Of Lao Economy In 2020: Economist
The government should persist with its promotional policy for investment in the energy and mines sectors as they are key income earners for Laos’ economic growth
Read more
Drought, Dams Cause Mekong River In Laos To Turn Unhealthy Blue
A section of the Mekong river in Laos has changed color from muddy brown to blue—a warning sign indicating poor health in Southeast Asia’s most important waterway.
Read more
Lao Banks Partner In Integrated Payment System
The Bank of the Lao PDR (BOL), the country’s central bank, on Monday officially launched the new joint venture Lao National Payment Network Co Ltd (LAPNet) in collaboration with seven major banks.
Read more
Govt Proposes Amendment To Enterprise Bankruptcy Law
Source: Vientiane Times The government has asked the National Assembly to approve an amendment to the Law on Enterprise Bankruptcy,
Read more
S. Korea To Support ‘Logistical Hub’ Campaign Of Laos
South Korean President Moon Jae-in said Tuesday his country will help Laos achieve its goal of becoming a “transportation and logistical hub” in the region.
Read more
Central Bank To Focus On Currency Management Amid Challenges
Laos’ central bank will tackle challenges to ensure the stability of the kip and prevent it weakening further against the Thai baht, and ensure the rate of inflation stays below 5 percent.
Read more Laos Registers Trade Surplus In Q3
Laos has registered a trade surplus, although money transfers are below target.
Read more
Laos’ PM Calls For Cooperation To Address Business Barriers
Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith has agreed with the concept of establishing a special taskforce committee, to address unresolved issues relating to the improvement of the business climate
Read more
Lao Gov’t Gets Ready For Opening Of China-Laos Railway In 2021
The railway is currently about 70 percent complete and is scheduled for completion at the end of 2021.
Read more
Onboarding New Marketing Clients
J&C Marketing is glad to welcome Phanthamit Analytical Lab, The Spirit House, and Davina Furniture as our new clients. We are delighted to work for them and help them strengthen their marketing efforts.
Read more
Smart City Project Tops Agenda At Monthly Gov’t Meeting
A plan to create “smart” and “eco” cities in Luang Namtha, and Oudomxay provinces topped the agenda at the government’s monthly meeting
Read more
Trump Supends 40 Billion Baht Worth of Duty Free Trade For Thailand
U.S. President Donald Trump on Friday reinstated duty-free trade for certain items from Ukraine, but suspended it with Thailand.
Read more
Baht To Further Strengthen, Expert Warns
The baht could further strengthen to Bt29 per dollar, a Kasikornbank analyst warned this week.
Read more Laos Needs Support For Transition Out Of LDC Status: UNCTAD
The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) will encourage development partners to maintain their assistance to Laos for a while after the nation graduates from Least Developed Country status.
Read more
Thailand Turns To China For High-speed Rail Boost
China has become a major player in the railway industry and, as a result, many countries — including Thailand — are working with China to develop their own high-speed rail networks.
Read more
Laos Plans To Begin Work On Laos-Vietnam Railway in 2021
On behalf of the Lao Government, the Ministry of Planning and Investment and PetroTrade signed a memorandum of understanding on October 15 to study and complete a detailed design of the railway.
Read more
ADB Outlook Expects Moderate Lao Economic Growth
Lao economic growth will remain moderate in 2019 and 2020, as expansion in the industry and services sectors softened in the first half of 2019 due to fewer international visitor arrivals
Read more
UNDP Launches Accelerator Lab
UNDP’s vehicle for fast-tracking development solutions harvests local expertise, identifies grassroots innovations and taps into a global network
Read more
Fund To Boost SME
The government has issued a prime ministerial decree to establish a Small and Medium-Sized Enterprise Promotion Fund, hoping the intervention will boost business access to finance.
Read more
Laos, Trying to Build Its Way to an Economic Boom, Could Be Sunk by Debt
Is Laos on the edge of an economic boom, or a bust?
Read more
Bando Densen of Japan Expands Cable Production To Laos Amid U.S.-China Row
Source: Japan Times Electric wire maker Bando Densen Co. has set up a cable plant in Laos as part of
Read more