PM Calls for Joint Efforts to Combat Drugs
Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone has called for the continued participation of all sectors to combat drug trafficking.
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Government
Anti-Graft Training in Vientiane is the Latest Effort to Counter Laos Corruption
The effort to fight widespread government corruption in Laos got a boost from the United Nations.
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PM Calls for Collective Effort to Support Global Battle Against Plastic Waste
Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone has called on Lao people nationwide to join the rest of the world in putting an end to plastic waste
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Human Capital Investment Essential to Develop Laos
The Lao government is committed to improving the quality of basic education, enrolling all children and keeping them in school, and improving education financing.
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Laos is Not in a Chinese ‘Debt Trap’ – But it is in Trouble
Laos is disturbingly reliant on investment from China – and no one knows how much, and under what terms.
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Laos Imposes Price Controls to Curb Inflation, But Merchants Say They’re Losing Money
As inflation soars, officials will enforce controls on 23 items with fines and jail time.
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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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PM Orders Installation of Immigration Checkpoints at Train Stations to Cope with Visitor Influx
Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone has asked for urgent action to set up immigration booths at stations on the Laos-China Railway.
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Lao Consul in China Visits World’s largest Bus Manufacturer
The Lao Consul in China and his delegation visited the factory of the world’s largest bus manufacturer, Yutong bus company.
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Laos, Cambodia Further Strengthen Bilateral Cooperation
Bilateral cooperation has been constantly promoted to strengthens area such as national defense and public security, economy and trade.
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Prime Minister Urge to Strengthen Agriculture, Forestry, and Rural Development
To ensure the positive transformation of these important sectors, the Prime Minister highlighted key areas of focus.
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Laos Begins Preparations to Host 2024 ASEAN Summit
Preparations are underway for Laos to host the next ASEAN Summit in 2024.
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Laos Must Address Rising Inflation in 2023
The Lao economy has been seriously impacted by rising inflation and the deterioration of the national currency, the kip. These problems have been caused by longstanding structural vulnerabilities, and can only be corrected by medium- to long-term reform efforts.
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IFAD and The Lao Government Commit to Improving Nutrition in Rural Areas
The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the Lao Government has committed to improving nutrition in rural areas with US$85.29 million pledged for the effort.
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Three Ministers Replaced in Cabinet Reshuffle
The National Assembly (NA)’s Standing Committee on Monday approved the replacement of three ministers in the latest cabinet reshuffle, following a proposal made by the Prime Minister.
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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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Meat Prices Rise Further With No Sign Of A Fall
The price of beef, pork and farmed fish on sale in markets is continuing to rise, with no sign of a pending decrease given the weak kip and high inflation rate.
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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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EDL Spells Out Measures To Resolve Debt Problems
The Reform Committee of Electricite du Laos (EDL) will roll out four measures aimed at resolving the company’s debt issues
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City Authorities To Clamp Down On Entertainment Venues
Under law, bars, restaurants and places of entertainment are required to close at midnight.
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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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Covid-19 Insurance Now Mandatory For Foreign Workers In Laos
A new regulation issued by the Ministry of Public Security sees all foreign workers entering Laos required to purchase Covid-19 insurance.
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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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Laos Allows Entry Of Travellers Without Covid-19 ATK Test
The issuing of the notification was attributed to many reasons, such as the unfolding situation of Covid-19 in Laos and neighbouring countries, as well as globally
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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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Ministry Outlines Plans To Tackle Flooding In Vientiane
The Ministry of Public Works and Transport is looking at ways to resolve the city’s perennial flooding problem which, despite years of promises, has not improved.
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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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Improve Key Factors To Boost Tourism Industry, Economist Suggests
“Most importantly, more inbound flights should be started and the number of countries eligible for visa-free travel should be increased.”
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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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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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Laos, S. Korea Partner In Employment Of Lao Nationals In Seasonal Agriculture
Laos & S. Korea have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on cooperation in relation to the dispatch of Lao nationals for seasonal employment in agriculture and fishery in Korea
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Health Ministry Admits Low Uptake Of Covid Booster Shots
Although 72 percent of the population have had two Covid vaccinations, only 14 percent have had a booster dose, the Ministry of Health has revealed.
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Brighter Future For Tourism As Visitor Numbers Soar
Statistics show the average visitor on a group tour stays for 2.5 days and spends about US$45 per day. In contrast, an individual visitor stays …
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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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Vientiane Police Crack Down On Crimes
Police in districts of the capital are cracking down on crimes and have been able to solve many cases in the first six months of the year.
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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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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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New Emergency Call Centre Promises Brighter Future For Accident Victims
The Centre’s staff will come from Mittaphab, Setthathirat and Mahosot hospitals and five emergency rescue teams which use the hotline numbers 1623, 1624, 1625, 1628 and 1630.
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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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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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21 Dead, Over 26,000 Infected With Dengue In Laos Since January
The 21 deaths included six in Attapeu, five in Vientiane, three each in Luang Namtha and Saravan, two in Xieng Khuang, and one each in Sekong and Oudomxay province.
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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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Police In Laos Seize Meth Pills In Major Drug Bust
The truck was stopped near the Kings Roman Casino, which is located in a special economic zone of Laos that operates virtually autonomously of national law.
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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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Over 25,000 People Infected With Dengue In Laos Since January
The highest number of dengue patients was reported in Vientiane capital
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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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Noncommunicable Diseases Responsible For 45 Percent Of Deaths In Laos
Four noncommunicable diseases – cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease – claim 30,000 lives annually and are responsible for 45 percent of all deaths in Laos
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Weeks After Tropical Storm Ma-On Batters Northern Laos, Residents Struggle To Recover
Hundreds of people are displaced amid widespread damage in Oudomxay province
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Laos Limits High-Ranking Government Officials To Only 2 State-Owned Vehicles
Prime Ministerial Decree 599 demands excess vehicles be returned in push to rein in corruption.
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Low Income Earners Concerned About Food Expenses
People with low incomes across the country are concerned about their growing expenses on food following a steep rise in the prices of agricultural and food products.
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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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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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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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Riverside Villages Put On Alert For Possible Flooding
villages along the nation’s main rivers have been warned to be alert for rising water levels following torrential rainfall in recent days, with people in low-lying areas advised to be prepared for floods
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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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Thousands Affected By Floods In The North
Thousands of people in northern areas of Laos are suffering after rivers flooded following several days of heavy rain.
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Laos Meets Target Of Vaccinating 80% Of Population Against Covid-19
Source: TheStar A total of 5,885,061 Lao people have had one dose of a Covid-19 vaccine, equaling 80.2 per cent
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Laos’ Trade Deficit Reaches US$114 Million In July
The main importing countries of Laos include Thailand, China, Vietnam, the United States, and Japan.
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Vientiane City At High Risk Of Widespread Dengue Outbreak
On August 7, the Centre of Information and Education for Health, under the Ministry of Health, reported that 15,661 people had contracted dengue fever so far this year and 16 people are known to have died from the virus.
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Lao Govt Approves Tax Cut On Diesel To Ease High Prices
Removal of the excise tax charged on diesel is in response to a request from fuel businesses and importers, who are struggling source sufficient funds to buy fuel.
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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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Govt Fights Extravagance, Promotes Frugal Spending
The government has outlined measures to reduce extravagance and promote austerity, to cut waste and ensure effective use of the state budget for the intended purpose and the maximum benefit of the nation.
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The HIV Response Is In Danger, The Promise Of Ending AIDS Is Under Threat
The human cost of a stalled HIV response is chilling. Globally, more than 1.5 million people became infected with HIV last year. That’s 4,000 people every day, more than a quarter of them young people aged 15-24.
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Vangvieng Takes Steps To Address Complaints Around Overpricing
As tourists return to Laos, with many coming from Thailand, there have been complaints about the high prices charged at some hotels, guesthouses and restaurants.
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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 Health Ministry Sets Dengue Control Campaign As Top Priority As Cases Are Rising Fast In Country
All sectors of society and government need to assist, lead and cooperate in preventing and combatting dengue fever using standard control measures.
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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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Lao Authorities Order Golden Triangle SEZ To Suspend Hiring Locals
Authorities in northern Laos are calling on businesses in the Chinese-run Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone (SEZ) to suspend hiring of Laotians to work as “chat girls” in an effort to curb abuses, including human trafficking.
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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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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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People Call For Steps To Prevent Cheating Of Tourists In Luang Prabang
A number of Lao social media users have called on authorities to take immediate action to prevent the cheating of foreign visitors by some vendors at popular tourist destinations such as Luang Prabang.
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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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Households With Mosquito Larvae May Be Subject To Fines
The Vientiane Health Department has instructed the capital’s nine district health offices to fine home owners if health authorities repeatedly find mosquito larvae in or around their property.
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World Population Day: A Time To Support Individuals’ Rights
Local authorities around the country, as well as families, teachers and communities, must do more to uphold the rights of local people and ensure their needs are met, according to Deputy Minister of Planning and Investment, Dr Sthabandith Insisienmay.
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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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Nam Phou Fountain Square To Be Restored To A Public Park
City authorities have invited architects, other experts, and the departments concerned to give their opinions on the best use of the square.
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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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Lao Fishermen Return To Malaysia, Despite Risks
Few of the fishermen are there legally, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation
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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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Foreign Ministry Takes Steps To Tackle Lao Passport Debacle
There has been a surge in passport applications since the government reopened the country for international travel in January.
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A Fuel Shortage Is Driving Laos — Which Is On The Brink Of A Debt Default — To Seek Out Cheap Russian Oil
Russian gas is 70% cheaper than supplies from other international sources, according to Nikkei, citing local media.
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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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Police Seize Almost 600,000 Amphetamine Pills In House Raid
Chanthabouly district police have uncovered a major drug ring in the capital and confiscated nearly 600,000 amphetamine tablets as well as equipment used to produce the pills.
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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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Almost 80 Per Cent Of Population In Laos Vaccinated Against Covid-19
Some 5,833,738 people have had one dose of a Covid-19 vaccine, equal to 79.5 percent of the total population, according to the Lao Ministry of Health
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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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Lao Govt Proposes Law On Weapons Management
As connectivity to countries in the region and further afield expands, drug gangs are proliferating and buying weapons and explosives illegally, both across Laos and online.
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Laos Records Over 4,000 Cases Of Dengue So Far This Year
More than 4,000 cases of dengue were recorded from January to June 26, while four people have died from the virus
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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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Lao Authorities Rescue Nearly 500 Workers From Golden Triangle SEZ
Many of the workers are human-trafficking victims lured to the Chinese-run special economic zone for jobs.
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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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Thailand’s PM Hails Lao Help In Crime Fight
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has thanked Laos for cooperating with Thai authorities to suppress crime along the Thai-Lao border and crack down on transnational call centre scams.
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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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Gunmen Fire At Cars On China-Backed Lao Expressway
Three people were injured in the shooting, including 1 who remains in a coma.
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Asia’s Synthetic Drug Trade Booms, With Record Meth Seizures
Laos registered a more than a 660% jump in interceptions of meth tablets in 2021
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Laos On Alert For Monkeypox Among Tourists
Lao health authorities are monitoring tourists for cases of monkeypox, following a report from the World Health Organisation (WHO) that cases of the disease have emerged in several countries.
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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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Govt Takes Steps To Withdraw Excess Vehicles From Leaders
A number of vehicles are expected to be withdrawn from Party and state leaders as well as senior officials after action has been taken to retrieve surplus cars in accordance with a new regulation.
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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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Entry-Exit Rules Explained As Full Reopening Begins On Monday
The government has dropped six entry requirements that were previously imposed to contain the spread of Covid-19, with Laos fully opening up to travellers on Monday.
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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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Laos Announces Full Reopening Starting May 9
The government has announced that all international border crossings will reopen, so that Lao and foreign nationals, well as stateless people, can enter and exit Laos freely.
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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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Covid-19 Cases In Laos Surpass 200,000 But Infections Are On A Downward Trend Despite Festive Season
The National Taskforce for Covid-19 Prevention and Control reported in an announcement yesterday that the Covid-19 situation had not been dramatically affected by new year celebrations.
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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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Road Tax 2022 Must Be Paid By The End Of June
Payment of the tax is obligatory and people who make late payments or fail to pay at all will be fined.
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Price Of Imported Goods Soars To Record High
The cost of imported household goods surged by 15-50 percent in April compared to the figure recorded in January
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People With Omicron Can Become Reinfected – Taskforce
People who become infected with the Omicron variant of Covid and recover still have a two-threefold risk of reinfection compared to other Covid variants.
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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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Govt Approves Reduced Civil Servant Quota For 2022
The approved the number is down from the quota of 1,600 new civil servants approved in 2021 and the figure of 2,000 allocated in 2020.
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Covid Taskforce Issues Advice On Booster Doses
The taskforce advises that the severity of infection will decrease as people gain stronger immunity to Covid with each additional dose of vaccine.
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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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Govt Seeks Procurer Of 183 Electric Vehicles For Leaders
The government is looking for a suitable company to purchase electric vehicles (EVs) for use by Party and state leaders, aiming to switch to EVs as the price of petrol soars.
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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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More Factories To Manufacture Molavir
Source: Vientiane Times The Ministry of Health has authorised three privately-owned pharmaceutical factories to produce molnupiravir, an oral medication used
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EDL Suffers Electricity Theft Worth 200 Billion Kip
Electricite du Laos (EDL) lost more than 200 million kip last year due to illegally modified electricity meters and other forms of electricity theft.
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Laos’ Health Ministry To Roll Out Second Round Of Covid-19 Booster Shots
Fourth Covid-19 vaccinations will be offered to frontline workers, people with immunodeficiency or chronic disease, and people over the age of 60.
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Longer Lao New Year Holiday Announced, State Offices Banned From Celebrating
The Prime Minister’s Office on March 23 issued a notice announcing the new year holiday.
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Education Ministry Stops Face-To-Tace Classes In Primary Schools
The Ministry of Education and Sports has ordered an end to face-to-face classes at state and private pre-schools and Grades 1-4 of primary schools in areas that have reported more Covid cases.
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Govt To Slash Fuel Prices
To reduce the pressure of rising food prices, the government will cut the cost of fuel by 650 kip per litre for premium fuel, 540 kip per litre for regular fuel and 610 kip per litre for diesel
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Covid Cases Will Continue To Rise, Taskforce Predicts
The National Taskforce for Covid-19 Prevention and Control has warned that Omicron infections will continue to surge in the next two or three months if people act irresponsibly and do not take precautions.
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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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Ministry Mulling Cancellation Of Lao New Year Festivities
The Ministry of Health is considering cancelling Lao New Year festivities because of the Omicron outbreak, with the number of new Covid cases reported each day having risen from under 200 to upwards of 800.
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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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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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Laos Face Third Wave Of COVID-19
A rise in cases of the Omicron variant, particularly in Vientiane, may be causing the country to experience its third wave
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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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HIV Prevention Failing In Rural Communities
Rural people lack information about the prevention and control of HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted infections (STI), which is one of the reasons for continuing HIV infection 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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Almost 70 Percent Of Population Have Had First Covid Jab
A total of 5,940,724 people had received a first dose of a Covid vaccine, equal to 69.43 percent of the population
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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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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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Taskforce Introduces Scheme To Create Covid-Free Families
The Vientiane Taskforce for Covid-19 Prevention and Control is taking steps to ensure that local residents take more responsibility in efforts to prevent the spread of Covid.
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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 And Thailand Agree To Reopen Border
The decision was made after Lao ambassador to Thailand Seng Soukhathivong paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister and Defence Minister Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha to mark the occasion of his 4.5 years at Government House.
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Laos Records First Locally-Transmitted Case Of Omicron
The National Taskforce for Covid-19 Prevention and Control has warned the public to be vigilant following the identification of the first locally-transmitted case of the Omicron variant of Covid-19 in Borikhamxay province.
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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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Health Ministry To Vaccinate Children Aged 6-11
The government will begin a nationwide rollout of Covid-19 vaccinations for children aged 6 to 11 next month, so that schools can reopen safely.
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Lao Taskforce Issues Omicron Alert
The warning issued by The National Taskforce for Covid-19 Prevention is in an attempt to prevent a community outbreak of Omicron in Laos.
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Rail Operator Asks For Government’s Help To Resolve Problems
LCRC also asked the government to counter negative publicity concerning the railway as well as for assistance with other issues
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China And Russia Position Themselves For Laos’ Fast-Approaching Post-LDC Era
Source: EAF Despite closed international borders and rolling lockdowns due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, the Lao People’s
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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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Tigers May Now Be Extinct In Laos: WWF
For almost the past 10 years, there has been no information or images of tigers recorded on camera traps in Laos, so it can be said that these creatures may have been hunted to extinction and have disappeared from forests.
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Lao Authorities Rescue Women Trapped In Chinese-Run Economic Zone
Some women who could not pay off debts they owed to their employers were forced into prostitution.
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Biden Administration Lifts What Critics Call ‘Backdoor Immigration Ban’ On Laos
The measure is a “great first step to undo some of the harm that’s been done by the Trump administration,” Kham Moua, of the nonprofit Southeast Asia Resource Action Center, said.
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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 Has Enough Vaccine To Inoculate Total Population: Covid Taskforce
Laos has now received more than 18 million doses of Covid-19 vaccines, which is sufficient to inoculate the total population of more than 7 million people, the Covid-19 taskforce has said.
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Japan Pledges US$8.78 Million For Early Warning Systems
The government of Japan has agreed to provide 1 billion yen (US$8.78 million) to install weather-related early warning systems in six provinces of Laos.
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Children Start Return To Classrooms
Many children returned to classes on Monday, with most being final-year students in primary and secondary schools.
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Police Raid Nets Over 36 Million Amphetamine Pills
Bokeo provincial police recently broke up a drug ring in Huayxai district when they arrested four suspects in possession of more than 4 tonnes of amphetamine.
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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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Thailand To Open Its Doors To Lao Workers Again, But Many May Prefer To Sneak Back In
COVID requirements and high employment fees mean some will enter the country illegally.
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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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Spiralling Price Of Pork Hits Vientiane Consumers
Households in Vientiane are suffering additional financial hardship as the price of pork rises yet again, taking the market price to yet another record high.
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Police Issue List Of Items Banned On Trains
The Railway Police Department of the Ministry of Public Security has issued a list of items that passengers are banned from taking into stations and on trains, as part of overall security measures.
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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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Schools Prepare To Resume Face-To-Face Classes
Education authorities are assessing the readiness of schools in Vientiane to restart face-to-face classes in Grade 5 of primary schools and Grades 4 and 7 of secondary schools following months of closure due to the Covid outbreak.
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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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Ministry Eases Requirements For Discharged Covid-19 Patients
Health authorities have lifted restrictions on Covid-19 patients following discharge from hospital, allowing them to resume their lives without further testing or isolation.
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