Unemployment Spirals To 23.4 Percent Amid Covid-19 Pandemic
Unemployment in Laos has skyrocketed to 23.4 percent, indicating that about 320,000 people are out of work
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Government
New English Language Curriculum On Track For Use In Primary Schools
Source: Vientiane Times The new English language curriculum for Grade 3 primary students will be rolled out at the start
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Luang Prabang To Lead The Way In Digital Transformation
Luang Prabang province has begun the first steps in becoming a Smart City through the creation of e-government practices.
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Pork Price Spirals As Controls Fail
Authorities have been unable to cap the price of pork, which has now risen above the price set during the Covid-19 pandemic, and are trying to find a way to keep prices down.
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Ministry Seeks Changes To Expressway Toll, Currency Exchange Rates
The Investment Promotion Department of the Ministry of Planning and Investment has advised the Laos-China Joint Expressway Development Co., Ltd. to revise the toll rate currently charged for pick-up trucks and also the dollar-kip exchange rate
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Inflation Down, But Financial Hardship Persists
Although inflation is trending downwards, many people feel their personal situation has not improved at all due to the mismatch between their income and spending.
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MRC Blames Mekong River’s Blue Hue on Upstream Outflow Restrictions, Decreased Rainfall
Water levels in the Mekong River are down to “worrying” levels with some parts of the major Southeast Asian waterway in Laos and Thailand turning blue due to increased algae growth
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Xekong To Open First Int’l Border Crossing With Vietnam
Xekong province will open its first international border crossing with Vietnam next month to ease the movement of goods and people between the two countries.
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Laos Increasingly Witnesses Extreme Weather
Source: Vientiane Times Laos has witnessed increasingly extreme weather events due to climate change causing unusualy situations. In recent years,
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Laos Planned Railways: Opening a National Rail Network in 2021
At present, Laos doesn’t have any railways. However, that is about to change in 2021.
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Vientiane Creates New District
Vientiane authorities are in the process of creating a new district, which will be the tenth in the capital
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Laos Tightens Measures As Covid-19 Cases In Neighbouring Countries Rise
The government has issued a notice stating more stringent measures against Covid-19 have been put in place for Feb 1- Mar 31, 2021.
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Laos To Earn Revenue From Sale Of Carbon Credit Next Year
The government expects to earn its first income from the sale of carbon credit next year after signing an agreement with the World Bank.
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Lao Airlines’ Earnings Nosedive By 70 Percent In 2020
Lao Airlines’ earnings plummeted by 70 percent last year compared to 2019 as result of a sharp drop in passenger numbers due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
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Lao Economy Set to Recover If Threats Can Be Contained
While economic growth in the Lao PDR contracted in 2020 for the first time in over two decades, the economy is set to recover in 2021 and in the medium term, provided the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic is contained and business can resume with trading partners
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PM Thongloun Elected As Party Chief By XI Party Congress
Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith was elected on Friday as Secretary General of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party Central Committee – the top post in the Party – replacing retiring Party leader Bounnhang Vorachit.
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Unemployment In Laos Soared By 20 Percent In 2020
The unemployment rate in Laos skyrocketed to 20 percent in 2020, a 10.6 percent increase compared to the figures for 2017, and the global Covid-19 outbreak was the main factor for the sharp increase in the number of jobless in the country.
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Inflation Rises In Laos In December
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) in Laos continues to rise despite the government’s enhanced measures to control the prices of products in local markets.
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XI National Party Congress Opens
The 11th Congress of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party opened on Wednesday to track achievements made in implementing the resolution of the 10th Party Congress under the leadership of the Party Central Committee over the past five years (2016-2020).
Read more Tonpheung District Under Lockdown After Man Tests Positive For Covid-19
Authorities have ordered a lockdown in the Golden Triangle special economic zone, which includes Tonpheung district in Bokeo province, with no one allowed to enter or leave the district in a bid to prevent the spread of Covid-19.
Read more Authorities Ramp Up Lao-Thai Border Checks To Prevent Virus Spread
Local authorities have been urged to monitor border crossings to prevent people from entering Laos illegally from Thailand, to stem the spread of Covid-19 after a widespread outbreak in Thailand.
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Visitor Adventure Park Planned For Phou Bia Mountain
The developers expect to spend more than US$47 million to create tourism activities alongside environmental conservation measures undertaken by the Khamphay Sana Group.
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Lao Postal Enterprise Partners With Chinese Express Delivery Operator
Laos’ state-owned postal enterprise is looking forward to working with its newly-signed partner, ZTO Express, a China-based provider of services including express delivery, logistics and e-commerce, to upgrade the skills of IT personnel as well as build capacity in other areas.
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Vientiane City Police Process Over 2,000 Crimes In Six Months Of 2020
Police handled more than 2,000 criminal cases in Vientiane during the first six months of the year involving assets valued at over 2,256 million kip.
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Vientiane City Authorities Plan To Introduce Smart Zones
Several areas of Vientiane have been designated for development as “smart zones” through the use of Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) in the development of the capital.
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Stuck In Laos And Need To Go Home?
The latest UK travel advisory update says there are currently only occasional charter flights which allow a return to the UK, via third countries from Laos
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Luang Prabang To Have New Public Park
A vacant plot of land in Luang Prabang city will be turned into a green space to enhance the urban environment.
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Govt Recruits Fewer Officials, Prioritises Teachers And Doctors
More than 10,000 people have been nominated by state sectors across the country for hiring as new civil servants but the government has decided to recruit only 1,600 officials in 2021
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China-Laos Railway Tracks Laid To Luang Prabang, Achieving Yearly Goals
The China-Laos railway tracks have successfully extended from Lao capital Vientiane to northern Laos’ transport hub Luang Prabang on Tuesday, thus accomplishing all the construction targets set at the beginning of 2020.
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Vientiane City Authorities Plan 30 Large-Scale Development Projects
Vientiane authorities have pledged to carry out 30 large-scale development projects from now until 2025 in a bid to accelerate the capital’s economic growth.
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Ministry Postpones Sim Card Registration Until June
The authorities have postponed Sim card registration until the end of June, citing the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, with all unregistered Sim cards to be disconnected from July 1.
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Audit And Compliance In Laos: A Guide For Foreign Investors
The Enterprise law and the Law on Independent Audit are the main laws that establish audit requirements in Laos.
Read more Ban On Charter Flights Extended To Keep Covid-19 In Check
The government is continuing the suspension of charter flights as of Wednesday, aiming to prevent people bringing the coronavirus into Laos.
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Laos Introduces Corporate Criminal Liability
Not only natural persons (individuals) but also legal persons, such as companies, NGOs, associations, and foundations operating in the Lao PDR, now face criminal liability under new legislation enacted by the government aimed at strengthening the rule of law in the country.
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Free Covid-19 Vaccinations May Be Available In 2021
Free Covid-19 vaccinations will be available for Lao people next year to provide protection against the potent virus while the threat of infection persists.
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Vientiane-Vangvieng Expressway Officially Open For Motorists
Motorists will now have the convenience of travelling from Vientiane to Vangvieng in an hour following the opening of a new expressway linking the capital to the popular tourist destination on Sunday.
Read more Over 6,000 Crimes Recorded Nationwide In 2020
A total of 6,209 crimes were recorded across the country this year, with drug trafficking being the most frequently occurring crime.
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Festivals Postponed Amid Covid Fears
Authorities have ordered the postponement of many popular festivals and their related activities scheduled to take place in the provinces in a recent move to prevent a potential Covid-19 outbreak in Laos.
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Govt, Private Sector Mull Use Of Electric Vehicles
The government and private sector are partnering to promote the development of electric vehicles to encourage the use of clean energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
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Inflation Trending Downwards But Still High
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) has dipped in recent months after inflation peaked at 6.94 percent in January.
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“Made in Laos 2020” To Promote Economic Recovery After Covid-19 Crisis
The upcoming Made in Laos 2020 fair, to be held at Lao-ITECC in Vientiane from December 25 to January 3 next year, will be used as a platform to spur domestic consumption and to promote a range of “Made in Laos” goods.
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Laos’ Banks Linked For Money Transfers Via Mobile App
Customers of many banks in Laos will now be able to transfer money via a mobile application managed by the joint venture Lao National Payment Network Co Ltd (LAPNet) under the Bank of the Lao PDR (BOL).
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Tonpheung District Locked Down After Two Imported COVID-19 Cases
Bokeo province has imposed a lockdown on Tonpheung district after a report informed authorities that two Chinese nationals infected with Covid-19 had travelling from Myanmar to China via the district and Luang Namtha province.
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Opening Of Vientiane-Vangvieng Expressway Delayed
Authorities have postponed the opening of the 113.50-km expressway linking Vientiane and Vangvieng as work on the project is not yet fully complete.
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New Streetlights Brighten Vientiane For National Day
New streetlights along seven main roads in the capital have given the city a bright new feel amid preparations to celebrate National Day on Wednesday.
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Laos Suspends Charter Flights & Entry Visas From Outbreak Countries
The government will no longer issue entry visas for people travelling to Laos from countries with a community outbreak of Covid-19, the national taskforce has announced.
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Laos Records US$729 Million In Imports, Exports For October
Laos reported a record US$729 million in imports and exports in October this year, with the value of exports put at US$347 million and the value of import calculated at US$382 million.
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14 New Cases Of Covid-19 Confirmed
A total of 14 people have tested positive for Covid-19 – the highest number to be identified in Laos in a single day – authorities confirmed on Monday.
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Lao Govt Explains Main Reasons For Rising Debt Burden
The government has cited five reasons for its spiralling public debt over the past five years, which is continuing even though measures have been introduced to address it.
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Can Lao Move To A Digital Economy?
The Fourth Industrial Revolution is a train that you either get on or you’ll find yourself being left far, far behind.
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Laos, Asia-Pacific Sign World’s Biggest Trade Deal
RCEP includes China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand and the 10 members of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN)
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Lao Govt Confident Of Economic Recovery Next Year
The government is optimistic that the economy will grow by 4-4.5 percent next year despite complex global changes and Laos’ financial difficulties.
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Lao Govt Vows To Smooth The Path For Investors
The Lao government has pledged to remove barriers and further improve the business climate in a bid to attract more investment from Laos and foreign countries.
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Pandemic Has Set Revenue Collection Back Three Years
The impact of the coronavirus on the economy has driven revenue collection back by three years, the deputy prime minister has told the National Assembly
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International Border Crossings Remain Closed To Ordinary Travellers: Latest Update
The Prime Minister’s Office issued the update on Saturday, relaxing some of the restrictions in a bid to gradually normalise the situation and mitigate economic impacts.
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Lao Government Outlines Plans To Tackle Debt Issue
The Lao government has announced that it will manage and address public debt in various ways as it seeks to ease the country’s financial tensions.
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Laos Set Its Own Debt Trap
‘Inadequate’ foreign exchange reserves, a widening current account deficit, contingent liabilities from public–private partnerships, poor governance — including weak institutional capacity and corruption controls — and constrained political freedoms that limit accountability have all contributed
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Various Charter Flights Await Approval
Applications for international flights to operate from Laos have been submitted and are awaiting approval from the Lao PDR government
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Govt Reopens Local Border Crossings To Facilitate Business
The government is temporarily reopening some “local” and “customary” border crossings in a bid to revive the economy and minimise the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic.
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Number Of Families Working In Agriculture Down By 10 Percent: Survey
A survey conducted in 2019-2020 revealed that 851,257 families in Laos work in agriculture
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Laos To Launch Fast-Track Immigration Service For China Soon
Incomers are expected to spend a shorter time in quarantine; Authorities are also considering the use of electronic tracking devices
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IMF Downgrades Laos’ Economic Growth To 0.2 Percent
The lower growth rate is attributed to several factors linked to the global economic slump, triggered by the Covid-19 pandemic.
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Economic Issues Top Agenda At Upcoming NA Session
The economy will feature as one of the main topics of debate at the 10th Session of the National Assembly (NA)’s 8th legislature, which starts next week.
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Stakeholders Discuss Establishment Of Consumer Protection Association
Stakeholders from the public and private sectors as well as civil society met in Vientiane to discuss and exchange views on the establishment of a consumer protection association.
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Authorities Seeking To Aid Savannakhet Flood Victims
Provincial authorities are working to urgently assist flood-affected villagers in Savannakhet by providing drinking water, rice, and other necessities after heavy rain caused flash flooding in the region over the weekend.
Read more COVID Taskforce Details Procedures For Entry Into Laos
Upon arrival in Laos, incomers will be tested for Covid-19 and will be quarantined at a designated location for 48 hours while they await the test results.
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BOL To Transform IT Infrastructure System
The Bank of the Lao PDR (BOL) is upgrading its IT infrastructure system to ensure financial transaction services throughout the country.
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China Announces Further Support For Laos
China has agreed to support Laos through three projects as part of efforts to strengthen cooperative relations between the two countries.
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Projected Revenue Shortfall Adds To Nation’s Debt Burden
Laos is undergoing an unprecedented level of macroeconomic stress and the pandemic has worsened an already fragile economic landscape.
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Laos Records US$762 Million Trade Value For August
Laos recorded a total trade value of US$762 million for imports and exports in August 2020, comprising US$377 million worth of exports while about US$384 million was expended on imported goods
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Tropical Cyclone Possible In Coming Days
An active low-pressure cell in the mid-South China Sea is likely to form into a tropical cyclone and move into southern Laos from October 9-11
Read more Lao Airlines Issues Travel Requirements
Lao Airlines State Enterprise has issued travel advice for passengers wishing to use the airline to enter or exit Laos.
Read more Lao Govt Eases Covid-19 Prevention Measures To Mitigate Economic Impact
The government has decided in principle to allow visits to Laos by tour groups from countries where there is no community outbreak of Covid-19
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Inflation Surges In August
The price of food and beverages increased by 9.91 percent year-on-year and 2.19 percent month-on-month
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Laos Backs Multilateralism To Address Global Challenges: PM
Lao Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith has voiced support for international cooperation under the United Nations framework
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Laos Credit Downgrade Signals ‘Real’ Default Risk As China Looms
Fitch Ratings has downgraded Laos’ rating to “CCC” from “B-,” meaning that the Southeast Asian nation faces “substantial credit risk” and that default is a “real possibility,”
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Lao, Malaysian Foreign Ministers Discuss Repatriation Of Citizens
The Lao and Malaysian ministers of foreign affairs held talks last week to discuss ways to enable their respective citizens to return home after being stranded due to the Covid-19 pandemic
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Business Operators Urge Cut In Transportation Costs
The business sector has requested the government find ways to reduce transportation and customs clearance costs to ensure that the collection of fees is done strictly under the Lao President’s Decree.
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Social Media Rumours Harming National Vaccination Campaign
Rumours about the death of an infant after being immunised against measles-rubella and polio have been cited as one reason why the nation’s vaccination campaign is not achieving the desired results this year.
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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.
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Vientiane To Spend 7.4 billion Kip To Repair Roads, Prevent Flooding
Many roads are in need of repair after suffering damage during heavy rain
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More Rain Forecast For Central, Southern Areas
Weather forecasters are warning people in central and southern Laos to expect more showers and strong winds this week.
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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
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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 Lao Athlete Tests Positive For Covid-19 Upon Return From Russia
A 29-year-old Army athlete on Friday confirmed positive for Covid-19 upon his return from Russia.
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New Initiative Launched To Address Cyberbullies
Lao authorities have established a new mechanism to address cyberbullying as increasing numbers of people are using social media as a tool to defame others online
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Agriculture Growth Rate Falls Below Target
The agriculture sector is expected to grow at a rate of just 0.9-1.7 percent this year, well below the target of 2.8-3 percent
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Weekly Humanitarian Flights Organised To Repatriate Lao Overseas
Lao students who have completed their studies and government officials participating in short-term training courses overseas will be able to return home via weekly scheduled humanitarian flights.
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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 Govt Gives Update On Covid-19 Prevention Measures
The government will continue to suspend the issuing of tourist visas for anyone travelling from or transiting via countries where a Covid-19 outbreak is taking place
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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.
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Migrants From Neighboring Countries Sneak Into Laos, Sparking COVID Fears
Migrants from China, Myanmar, and Vietnam are increasingly entering Laos by boat and through lightly-guarded border crossings, avoiding more heavily inspected international checkpoints
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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.
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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.
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13 Vietnamese Caught Sneaking Into Laos
Border guards in central Vietnam are investigating 13 people who paid a smuggling ring to help them enter Laos, and later Thailand, to find jobs.
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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
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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).
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Thailand Appeal Court Upholds Life Sentence For Lao Drug Kingpin Mr. X
Thailand’s Appeal Court has upheld a life sentence for Lao drug kingpin Xaysana Keophimpha, better known as Mr. X
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Japan And Laos Agree To Relax Coronavirus Travel Restrictions
Expatriates to be eligible first, with students and business travel on agenda
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Hin Nam No To Gain World Heritage Status By 2022
Source: Vientiane Times Laos is hopeful that Hin Nam No (Karst) National Protection Area in Bualapha district of Khammuan province
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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 Two People Test Positive For Covid-19 Upon Arrival From Abroad
Two more people have tested positive for Covid-19 after arriving in Laos by air, bring the total number of cases confirmed in Laos to 22, authorities announced on Friday.
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Ministry To Increase CCTV Camera Coverage In City
The Ministry of Public Security will increase the coverage of Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras in the capital, with an aim to improve surveillance, monitor crimes better, and help police deal with anti-social elements.
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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.
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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.
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Govt Takes New Steps To Prevent Second Wave Of Covid-19
The continuing spread of Covid-19 in neighbouring countries and beyond has forced Laos to intensify measures to protect the tiny nation against a second wave of the virus.
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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.
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Chinese Workers and Gamblers Illegally Stream Into Laos to Avoid Quarantine
Laos has detained and deported hundreds of Chinese nationals in recent months for illegally entering the country to sidestep a mandatory 14-day coronavirus quarantine period and head straight to casinos to gamble or work
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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.
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COVID-19 Prevention Measures Remain, Charter Flights Suspended
The government has suspended shuttle flights after operating them with some countries for some time as the challenge of a possible COVID-19 outbreak arises in the days ahead
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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
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Lao Brewery Park Renovation Grants For Vientiane Hit 3.4 Billion Kip
Source: Vientiane Times Lao Brewery Co. Ltd has granted 3.4 billion kip combined to renovation projects for Chao Fa Ngum
Read more New COVID-19 Case After 102 days: Laos
The Lao Ministry of Health reported one new COVID-19 case on Friday for the first time after 102 days.
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Nation Needs To Focus On Fight Against Dengue Fever
Health authorities say officials and the public have achieved excellent results in controlling the COVID-19 pandemic, but Laos now needs to prevent an outbreak of a virulent form of dengue fever this rainy season.
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Vientiane To Trace All Illegal Internet Cafés
Some cafés found operating without a licence as well as some open for online gaming and gambling or selling drugs
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Vientiane Unearths Plan To Send Power Lines Underground
Vientiane authorities have given the green light to three companies for a pilot project to redirect overhead electrical cables underground as part of long-term beautification plans for the city’s downtown.
Read more Lao Airlines To Resume Flights On Vientiane-Hanoi Route
State-run Lao Airlines plans to soon resume its international service from Vientiane to Hanoi in Vietnam, with two flights a week on Mondays and Fridays.
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Lao Health Ministry Details Requirements For Traveller’s Mandatory Medical Certificates
The National Taskforce Committee for Covid-19 Prevention and Control has assigned the Ministry of Health to conduct tests and issue medical certificates for travellers who need to exit Laos
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Lao Central Bank Imposes New Regulation For Currency Exchanges
The Bank of the Lao PDR has come up with a new administrative rule designed to administer currency exchange businesses amid the appreciation of international currencies against the Lao kip.
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Vientiane Authorities Set Prices Of Rice To Protect Consumers
Authorities in Vientiane have set the maximum rates of rice to protect consumers and ensure price stability amid the economic crisis because of natural disasters and the Covid-19 pandemic.
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Social Media Uproar After Lao Schoolboy Kicked Out of Exam For ‘Wrong’ Haircut
Source: RFA A Lao middle-school student near the country’s capital Vientiane was removed from class in the middle of an
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Medical Certificates Mandatory For Int’l Travel
All travellers exiting Laos will be required to produce a medical certificate for their destination country to contain the spread of Covid-19.
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Dengue Fever Cases In Laos Rise To 2,345
Source: Xinhua Dengue cases in Laos have reached 2,345 with seven deaths since January, Lao Ministry of Health reported in
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Widespread Heavy Downpours Forecast Across Laos
Regions across Laos have been put on alert for flash floods and landslides after weather forecasters warned an active low pressure system will increase heavy rains in parts of the country during July 1-5.
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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,
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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.
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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
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Lao Govt Relaxes COVID-19 Prevention Measures
Sports competitions, casinos, and some social gatherings will be allowed to resume under the government’s decision to relax the COVID-19 prevention measures
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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
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No Chance Of Vietnam Resuming International Flights In July: Experts
Vietnamese carriers’ plans to resume international flights next month will come to naught, given fresh Covid-19 outbreaks in Asia and other factors, experts say.
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Some Foreigners To Be Allowed Entry From July 1: Thailand
Thailand will allow some foreigners to enter the country from July 1, in an easing of the months-long travel lockdown.
Read more Phone Users Need To Re-Register SIM Cards
The Ministry of Post and Telecommunications has issued a notice urging phone users to re-register phone and internet SIM cards from Jul 1, 2020.
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Police Targeting Hit-And-Run Drivers In The Capital
So far this year three drivers involved hit-and-runs have been arrested in the capital with the accidents resulting in three fatalities
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EDL To Slash Electricity Bills For Thousands Of Householders
Electricity du Laos (EDL) will reduce electricity prices for households using less than 461kwh per month for the three months of April, May, and June as part measures to offset the financial impact of COVID-19 in the country.
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US Embassy No Longer Issuing Visas For Lao Citizens: Consular Dept
The Consular Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued an official notice to inform the general public that the US government has suspended the issuance of visas to Lao citizens.
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Importers, Exporters Face Further Trade Barriers
Importers and exporters in Laos are grappling with several challenges despite the government’s active efforts to reduce procedures and trade barriers.
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Laos Praised For Quick Virus Response
International health organisations on Thursday praised Laos’ early response and countrywide networks for containing the novel coronavirus after the Southeast Asian nation declared itself free of the virus earlier this month.
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New Decree Promotes Unity Among Ethnic Groups
The government has promulgated a prime ministerial decree designed to promote unity among the nation’s diverse ethnic groups.
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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.
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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
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Laos Announces Victory Over Covid-19
The Lao government announced an initial victory in the battle against Covid-19 after all 19 patients infected by the virus were discharged from hospital
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Laos-China Railway Almost 90 Percent Complete
Construction of the Laos-China railway was 89.43 percent complete as of the end of May with Lao authorities calling for the project developer to progress work according to plan.
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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.
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No Troubles With Covid-19 But Laos Reports 48 More Cases Of Dengue Fever
Laos has reported no new Covid-19 case for more than 50 days but it still has plenty to handle with dengue fever.
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Labour Ministry Orders Businesses To Pay Workers Amid Virus Outbreak
The Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare has instructed businesses in the production and service sectors to respect the Law on Labour, related laws, and regulations on the payment of workers affected by the Covid-19 outbreak.
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Foreign Ministry Issues Update On Entry And Exit Rules
In its latest announcement issued on June 1, the ministry said an application must also be made to the Secretariat of the National Taskforce Committee for Covid-19 Prevention and Control
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BOL Launches Real Time Financial System
Bank of the Lao PDR (BOL) has officially launched the Lao Payment and Settlement System (LaPASS), a real-time gross settlement system, to promote a more efficient financial system.
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Govt Lifts More Restrictions On Road To ‘New Normal’
The government has lifted more of the restrictions put in place to curb the Covid-19 outbreak, enabling people to gradually return to a ‘new normal’ based on Laos’ good track record in keeping the virus at bay.
Read more Laos’ Tax Collections Decrease Due To Covid-19 Pandemic And New Tax Law Adjustment
Laos will not be able to achieve the target for tax collections this year due to the Covid-19 crisis and the implementation of the adjusted new tax law.
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Petrol Stations Increase Fuel Prices
Petrol stations across Laos on Wednesday increased retail prices of petrol and diesel
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New Law On Cinema Spells Out Oversight Rules
A new Law on Cinema has come into effect, providing guidelines about the steps filmmakers must undertake before engaging in or shooting a film in Laos.
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PM Advises Energy Ministry To Clarify Electricity Charges
Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith has directed the Ministry of Energy and Mines to clearly explain the electricity tariff structure following concerns raised by society about increased monthly bills.
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Authorities Debunk Smoking’s Alleged COVID-19 Defence As Hot Air
A review of studies by public health experts convened by the World Health Organisation on April 29, found that smokers are more likely to develop severe disease with COVID-19, compared to non-smokers.
Read more COVID-19 To Impact Lao PDR Growth, Debt In 2020: World Bank Report
Between 96,000 and 214,000 additional people are estimated to fall into poverty as a result of the pandemic, jeopardizing past gains.
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Vientiane Water Reduces Household Tariffs By 5 Percent
Vientiane Water Supply Enterprise will reduce its rates from May to July for household customers by five percent with the change coming into effect next month.
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Gradual Reopening Of Int’l Borders
39 days no infections prompts gradual reopening of int’l borders
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Little Laos Teeters Towards Big Debt Crisis
Laos will be hard-pressed to meet its external debt obligations
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Health Officials Strive To Take Sting Out Of Dengue Fever
Health authorities are advising provincial health departments to actively monitor their areas in the fight against dengue fever, as the prevalence of the disease in the provinces is higher this year than last.
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Laos Can Expect Higher Rate Of Drug Inflow From Golden Triangle: UNODC
UNODC warns that the synthetic drug market in East and Southeast Asia is continuing to expand and diversify
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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
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Students Return To School As Covid-19 Restrictions Ease
The government has announced all students nationwide can go back to schools on June 2, while final-year classes in primary, lower and upper secondary schools began on Monday.
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Travel Restrictions Lifted As More Lockdown Measures Eased
The government has lifted travel restrictions to enable people to travel freely around the country as Laos eases more Covid-19 prevention measures to minimise the impact on livelihoods and the economy.
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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 Dengue Fever Claims Two Lives
Two people have died following a nationwide outbreak of dengue fever in the first five months of this year, with Vientiane and Xayaboury provinces recording the most cases.
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Petrol Prices In Laos To Decrease
The new lower rates for fuels will come into effect across Laos from 4 pm on May 14.
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Laos Sets Criteria For Entry And Exit
All people entering Laos will have to undergo a health check, be tested for Covid-19 and be placed in quarantine for 14 days
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Lao Migrant Workers Clear Quarantine, Return Home, After Crossing Back From Thailand
More than 6,000 Lao migrant workers held in camps in quarantine after returning from Thailand have now gone home
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Laos Extends Flight Ban
The ban on flights to Laos continues with no end date in sight as far as government announcements go
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Laos’ Exports Drop Further Amid COVID-19 Crisis
The value of Laos’ exports this year have dropped from US$410 million in January to US$209 million in April because of the impact of the global Covid-19 pandemic.
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Over 100 Houses Damaged By Hailstorm In Xieng Khuang
A hailstorm and heavy rain swept across Kham district of Xieng Khuang province recently, damaging more than 100 houses in the area
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Shopping Centres Reopen To Public
Many large shopping centres have resumed operations after being temporarily closed in line with the government’s orders to prevent the spread of Covid-19.
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Businesses Must Implement Virus Measures To Prevent New Outbreaks
Enterprises operating during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic must strictly implement precautionary measures to avert further outbreaks of the virus, authorities have advised.
Read more Govt Strictly Monitoring People Entering Laos To Prevent Spread Of Covid-19 / 5.5.2020
The government is strictly implementing preventive measures and monitoring people entering Laos at the borders to prevent the spread of Covid-19
Read more Laos Cautiously Optimistic Over Covid-19 / 4.5.2020
Some prevention and control measures that were previously enforced are still in place to prevent a second wave of infections.
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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.
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Lao Airlines Suspends All Flights
The state-run Lao Airlines will suspend all domestic and international flights in order to prevent, limit and control the spread of Covid-19.
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Schools To Remain Closed Until At Least May 18
Students and teachers nationwide will have to be patient as authorities have proposed that primary and secondary schools and tertiary education institutions remain closed with an expected reopening from May 18.
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Temporary Easing of Lockdown Restrictions
The new guidelines issued by the Lao PM are temporary measures to prevent and control the virus and will begin from 4th to 17th May 2020.
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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 Govt Discusses Post-Lockdown Measures / 29.4.2020
The government looks set to keep some strict measures in place as part of its bold policy to control the spread of COVID-19
Read more Authorities Urge Public To Get Ready Against Deadly Dengue
Health authorities are calling on the public to make preparations against the dengue virus this rainy season after one person has already died from the disease this year.
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Schools Expected To Reopen On May 11 Under Close Supervision
State and private kindergartens, primary and secondary schools and tertiary education institutions along with sporting activities, are expected to reopen on May 11 amid strict measures.
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Easing of Lockdown Restrictions Proposed
Six restrictions under the current lockdown could be eased after May 3 if there are no more confirmed case of coronavirus by that date, authorities have suggested.
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Ministry Says Parents Of Students In Private Schools Must Pay 50 Percent Of Fees
Private schools must pay 50 percent of the salaries of teachers, while parents must pay 50 percent of the fees for students for the month of April.
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Ban On Inbound Flights Continues: Thailand
The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) is planning to extend its inbound flight ban for another 15 days
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Vientiane Cuts Waste Disposal Fee By 50 Percent
The waste disposal fee for residents, entrepreneurs and organisations in Vientiane has been reduced by 50 percent from April to June this year.
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Lao Health System Continues To Offer Immunization Services Despite COVID-19 Pandemic
Despite the arrival of COVID-19 in the Lao PDR last month, the health system here is continuing to provide essential health services – and in particular immunization
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PM Extends Restrictions For Virus Control, Some Eased To Minimise Economic Impact
The prime minister told the cabinet to remain tough in enforcing his Order No. 6 which imposes tougher prevention and control measures, and measures imposed by the relevant authorities.
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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.
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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).
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Bushfires Destroy 100,000 Hectares Of Forests
More than 100,000 hectares of forests in Luang Namtha province were destroyed by bushfires that raged for more than a month
Read more No New Cases For 10 Days / 22.4.2020
No new cases of infection have been reported for 10 straight days
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Widespread Thunderstorms, Strong Winds Forecast Until Sunday
Many regions across the country are expecting thunderstorms and strong winds with the public being urged to be on alert
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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.
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Local Authorities Urged To Enforce PM’s Order On Lockdown
Local authorities must ensure that Prime Minister’s Order No. 6, aimed at preventing the spread of Covid-19 by putting a lockdown in place, is enforced
Read more Taskforce Confirm No New Cases For 7 days / 19.4.2020
No new COVID-19 cases have been recorded in Laos for seven consecutive days with the total number of confirmed infections unchanged at 19 as of Sunday
Read more Schools, Centres Of Higher Education To Remain Closed
The Ministry of Education and Sports announced on Friday that all schools and tertiary centres of education will remain closed from April 22 to May 3 as part of government efforts to curb the Covid-19 outbreak.
Read more No New Cases For Four Days / 16.4.2020
A second patient hospitalised with Covid-19 was discharged and allowed to go home
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Lockdown Extended Until 03 May !
Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith has extended the current lockdown for Laos until 3 May 2020.
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