We Finally Know The True Age of These Huge, Mysterious Jars Scattered in Laos
In total, there are thousands of them – a giant landscape of strange, hollowed jars, carved from ancient stone.
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Latest News
Unemployment Spirals To 23.4 Percent Amid Covid-19 Pandemic
Unemployment in Laos has skyrocketed to 23.4 percent, indicating that about 320,000 people are out of work
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New English Language Curriculum On Track For Use In Primary Schools
Source: Vientiane Times The new English language curriculum for Grade 3 primary students will be rolled out at the start
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Spotify Expanding To Over 80 New Locations Including Brunei, Laos and Cambodia
Spotify has announced an expansion to over 80 new locations around the world, including Brunei, Laos and Cambodia.
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Chinese Investment in Laos Sparks Chinese-Language Learning Boom
A Chinese language education boom is underway in Laos as Beijing’s increasing investments in the Southeast Asian country point to a future where Chinese companies dominate local commerce
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Luang Prabang To Lead The Way In Digital Transformation
Luang Prabang province has begun the first steps in becoming a Smart City through the creation of e-government practices.
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Fuel Prices Rise For Fourth Time This Year
Source: Vientiane Times Motorists across the country are rushing to petrol stations to fill up their tanks after the government
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Pork Price Spirals As Controls Fail
Authorities have been unable to cap the price of pork, which has now risen above the price set during the Covid-19 pandemic, and are trying to find a way to keep prices down.
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Micro-Businesses Dominate Laos’ Enterprises
Laos, as a least developed country, is still largely dominated by microbusinesses, which account for 94.2 percent of all enterprises in the country
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Ministry Seeks Changes To Expressway Toll, Currency Exchange Rates
The Investment Promotion Department of the Ministry of Planning and Investment has advised the Laos-China Joint Expressway Development Co., Ltd. to revise the toll rate currently charged for pick-up trucks and also the dollar-kip exchange rate
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Weathermen Predict Another Dip In Temperatures
Temperatures are forecast to dip by 1-3C accompanied by light fog in parts of the country until February 21 due to the influence of a weak high-pressure system in China.
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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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Vientiane Creates New District
Vientiane authorities are in the process of creating a new district, which will be the tenth in the capital
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Pepsi Names Famous K-Pop Girl Group ‘BLACKPINK’ As New Asia-Pacific Brand Ambassadors
The world’s popular soft drink Pepsi, a trend-setter of youth fashion and culture, announced superstar K-Pop girl group BLACKPINK as its new Asia-Pacific spokespersons
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Laos’ Fish Larb Video Show At Fisheries Meeting In Rome
Lao food, fish Larb “Fish mixed salad” recently was selected to show its delicious recipe via a shot video to VIP’s at a global fisheries conference in Rome, Italy.
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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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Elephant Festival 2021 Limited To Just One Day
This year’s 15th Elephant Festival will be a scaled down affair and will take place over the course of just one day, as a result of the restrictions resulting from the Covid-19 pandemic.
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PM Thongloun Elected As Party Chief By XI Party Congress
Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith was elected on Friday as Secretary General of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party Central Committee – the top post in the Party – replacing retiring Party leader Bounnhang Vorachit.
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Unemployment In Laos Soared By 20 Percent In 2020
The unemployment rate in Laos skyrocketed to 20 percent in 2020, a 10.6 percent increase compared to the figures for 2017, and the global Covid-19 outbreak was the main factor for the sharp increase in the number of jobless in the country.
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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).
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Tonpheung District Under Lockdown After Man Tests Positive For Covid-19
Authorities have ordered a lockdown in the Golden Triangle special economic zone, which includes Tonpheung district in Bokeo province, with no one allowed to enter or leave the district in a bid to prevent the spread of Covid-19.
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Bangchak Corporation (BCP) Adds Coffee Shops In Laos, Cambodia
Inthanin Coffee claims to be environmentally friendly, with a total of 690 outlets in Thailand and eight overseas. The business is run by BCP’s wholly-owned Bangchak Retail Co.
Read more Authorities Ramp Up Lao-Thai Border Checks To Prevent Virus Spread
Local authorities have been urged to monitor border crossings to prevent people from entering Laos illegally from Thailand, to stem the spread of Covid-19 after a widespread outbreak in Thailand.
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Visitor Adventure Park Planned For Phou Bia Mountain
The developers expect to spend more than US$47 million to create tourism activities alongside environmental conservation measures undertaken by the Khamphay Sana Group.
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Lao Postal Enterprise Partners With Chinese Express Delivery Operator
Laos’ state-owned postal enterprise is looking forward to working with its newly-signed partner, ZTO Express, a China-based provider of services including express delivery, logistics and e-commerce, to upgrade the skills of IT personnel as well as build capacity in other areas.
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Vientiane City Police Process Over 2,000 Crimes In Six Months Of 2020
Police handled more than 2,000 criminal cases in Vientiane during the first six months of the year involving assets valued at over 2,256 million kip.
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Vientiane City Authorities Plan To Introduce Smart Zones
Several areas of Vientiane have been designated for development as “smart zones” through the use of Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) in the development of the capital.
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Weathermen Warn Of Continuing Cold Snap
Authorities are warning the public to be prepared for more cold weather amid health concerns.
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Stuck In Laos And Need To Go Home?
The latest UK travel advisory update says there are currently only occasional charter flights which allow a return to the UK, via third countries from Laos
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Luang Prabang To Have New Public Park
A vacant plot of land in Luang Prabang city will be turned into a green space to enhance the urban environment.
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Govt Recruits Fewer Officials, Prioritises Teachers And Doctors
More than 10,000 people have been nominated by state sectors across the country for hiring as new civil servants but the government has decided to recruit only 1,600 officials in 2021
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China-Laos Railway Tracks Laid To Luang Prabang, Achieving Yearly Goals
The China-Laos railway tracks have successfully extended from Lao capital Vientiane to northern Laos’ transport hub Luang Prabang on Tuesday, thus accomplishing all the construction targets set at the beginning of 2020.
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More Domestic Tourists Rush To Vangvieng Amid Covid-19 Restrictions
Tourists from Vientiane and other nearby provinces are rushing to Vangvieng district for a short break despite the suspension of the Vangvieng Music Festival to curb the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic.
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Vientiane City Authorities Plan 30 Large-Scale Development Projects
Vientiane authorities have pledged to carry out 30 large-scale development projects from now until 2025 in a bid to accelerate the capital’s economic growth.
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Thailand Could See Tens Of Thousands Of New Daily COVID Cases By Next Month: CCSA
Thailand could see tens of thousands of new COVID-19 cases per day by mid January, if people fail to follow the preventive guidelines issues to combat the spread of the virus.
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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.
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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Up To Eight Killed Or Injured In Blast At Lao-Vietnam Border Checkpoint
Source: RFA Up to eight people were killed or injured in a blast at a checkpoint on the Laos-Vietnam border
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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 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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Thailand Liberalises Sale And Possession Of Category II Narcotics
Category II comprises 102 ordinary narcotics, such as morphine, cocaine, codeine, medicinal opium, and fresh opium.
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Laos Eagerly Anticipates Opening Of First Expressway
The Vientiane-Vangvieng section is about 110 km long, designed as a two-way four-lane expressway with a design speed of 80 km to 100 km per hour.
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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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Single Entry Tourist Visa To Thailand Now Requires Foreigners To Show Funds Of 500’000 THB
Foreigners who wish to apply for a Single Entry Tourist Visa (SETV) to Thailand are now required to provide 6 months worth of bank statements showing a bank balance of at least 500,000 THB.
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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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79 Killed In Road Accidents In Laos In October
A total of 79 people were killed in 604 road accidents in Laos in October, according to the latest report from Lao Ministry of Public Security.
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Coming soon! The banlao.la Homes, Loans & Lifestyle EXPO – December 4, 5, 6 2020
The banlao.la Homes, Loans, and Lifestyle Expo will see 100+ companies under one roof at the NCC in Vientiane Capital and is set to welcome 10,000+ guests from across Laos, the ASEAN region, and Mainland China
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Luang Prabang Film Festival Goes Online
Luang Prabang Film Festival returns for its 10th event with a streaming program free to audiences across Southeast Asia
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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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China-Laos Railway Lays 1st Section Of Electrical High-Voltage Power Cable
The first section of electrical high-voltage power cable for China-Laos Railway has been successfully laid in position.
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Lao Government Outlines Plans To Tackle Debt Issue
The Lao government has announced that it will manage and address public debt in various ways as it seeks to ease the country’s financial tensions.
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Laos Set Its Own Debt Trap
‘Inadequate’ foreign exchange reserves, a widening current account deficit, contingent liabilities from public–private partnerships, poor governance — including weak institutional capacity and corruption controls — and constrained political freedoms that limit accountability have all contributed
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Various Charter Flights Await Approval
Applications for international flights to operate from Laos have been submitted and are awaiting approval from the Lao PDR government
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Govt Reopens Local Border Crossings To Facilitate Business
The government is temporarily reopening some “local” and “customary” border crossings in a bid to revive the economy and minimise the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic.
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Number Of Families Working In Agriculture Down By 10 Percent: Survey
A survey conducted in 2019-2020 revealed that 851,257 families in Laos work in agriculture
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Laos To Launch Fast-Track Immigration Service For China Soon
Incomers are expected to spend a shorter time in quarantine; Authorities are also considering the use of electronic tracking devices
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Squabble Over Why Repatriation Flight For 40 Aussies From Laos Was Stopped From Landing In Cairns
A blame game has erupted between Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk over who withdrew permission for a repatriation charter flight from Laos to land in Cairns.
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IMF Downgrades Laos’ Economic Growth To 0.2 Percent
The lower growth rate is attributed to several factors linked to the global economic slump, triggered by the Covid-19 pandemic.
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Economic Issues Top Agenda At Upcoming NA Session
The economy will feature as one of the main topics of debate at the 10th Session of the National Assembly (NA)’s 8th legislature, which starts next week.
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Stakeholders Discuss Establishment Of Consumer Protection Association
Stakeholders from the public and private sectors as well as civil society met in Vientiane to discuss and exchange views on the establishment of a consumer protection association.
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Authorities Seeking To Aid Savannakhet Flood Victims
Provincial authorities are working to urgently assist flood-affected villagers in Savannakhet by providing drinking water, rice, and other necessities after heavy rain caused flash flooding in the region over the weekend.
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BOL To Transform IT Infrastructure System
The Bank of the Lao PDR (BOL) is upgrading its IT infrastructure system to ensure financial transaction services throughout the country.
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Tourism Businesses In Laos Slash Prices To Woo Local Travellers
Tour and hospitality business operators have massively cut the cost of their services and package tours to make prices more affordable and encourage Lao people to take vacations around the country.
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China Announces Further Support For Laos
China has agreed to support Laos through three projects as part of efforts to strengthen cooperative relations between the two countries.
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Fluctuating Exchange Rate Increases Pressure On Lao Economy
Many firms are effectively conducting business and basing their pricing on foreign currencies sold in the parallel market
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Projected Revenue Shortfall Adds To Nation’s Debt Burden
Laos is undergoing an unprecedented level of macroeconomic stress and the pandemic has worsened an already fragile economic landscape.
Read more Savannakhet Districts Hit By Heavy Downpours, Floods
Many villages along the Xepon and Xebanghieng Rivers in Savannakhet province have been hit by flooding following heavy rain
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Laos Records US$762 Million Trade Value For August
Laos recorded a total trade value of US$762 million for imports and exports in August 2020, comprising US$377 million worth of exports while about US$384 million was expended on imported goods
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Tropical Cyclone Possible In Coming Days
An active low-pressure cell in the mid-South China Sea is likely to form into a tropical cyclone and move into southern Laos from October 9-11
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COVID-19 Pandemic Severely Impacts Lao Economy: ADB
Although Laos was able to dodge severe health impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic, the effect on the country’s economy, particularly on the tourism sector, is being projected to be devastating.
Read more Lao Airlines Issues Travel Requirements
Lao Airlines State Enterprise has issued travel advice for passengers wishing to use the airline to enter or exit Laos.
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End Of Buddhist Lent Culminates In Colourful Celebrations
Buddhists across the country spent two days taking part in colourful festivities to mark the end of Buddhism lent or Ork Phan Sa which concluded the three-month traditional rain retreat observed by monks.
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Inflation Surges In August
The price of food and beverages increased by 9.91 percent year-on-year and 2.19 percent month-on-month
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Laos Backs Multilateralism To Address Global Challenges: PM
Lao Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith has voiced support for international cooperation under the United Nations framework
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Laos Credit Downgrade Signals ‘Real’ Default Risk As China Looms
Fitch Ratings has downgraded Laos’ rating to “CCC” from “B-,” meaning that the Southeast Asian nation faces “substantial credit risk” and that default is a “real possibility,”
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Thailand’s Sex Workers Petition To Decriminalise Prostitution
Thailand is predominantly Buddhist and deeply conservative, but is home to an extensive sex industry, largely catering to Thai men.
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Lao, Malaysian Foreign Ministers Discuss Repatriation Of Citizens
The Lao and Malaysian ministers of foreign affairs held talks last week to discuss ways to enable their respective citizens to return home after being stranded due to the Covid-19 pandemic
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How Fast Is the Gaming Market in SE Asia Growing?
Source: Laos News Gaming has grown immensely in popularity since the turn of the century, but how fast is it
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Business Operators Urge Cut In Transportation Costs
The business sector has requested the government find ways to reduce transportation and customs clearance costs to ensure that the collection of fees is done strictly under the Lao President’s Decree.
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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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Luang Prabang Film Festival’s Lao Filmmakers Fund Awards Seven Grants To Local Film Projects
A psychological thriller about a young woman experiencing trauma and two new features from first-time directors are among those to win support from the 2020 Lao Filmmakers Fund
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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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Dengue Cases In Laos Reach 6,203
The highest number of 1,457 dengue patients were recorded in the Lao capital Vientiane
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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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Lane Xang Minerals Resumes Operation At Sepon Mine
The primary gold project is expected to generate about US$30 million in government revenue and economic benefits
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Laos Records 142 New Cases Of Dengue Fever
The Lao Ministry of Health on Saturday reported 142 new cases of dengue fever, bringing the total number of infections to 5,923, and 11 deaths were recorded.
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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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EDL, CSG Sign Agreement To Establish Transmission Line Firm
EDLT plans to invest about US$2 billion in building Laos’ national backbone power grid and cross-border power grid interconnection for Laos and its neighbouring countries
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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
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Laos To Lose Favourable Trading Status After LDC Graduation
Laos could face a trade loss of US$102 million under the special tariff scheme if the country graduates from the UN’s Least Developed Country (LDC) status in 2024
Read more 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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7-Eleven Signs Agreement with CP ALL to Operate 7-Eleven Stores in Laos
The first 7-Eleven-branded convenience store in Laos is expected to be open in Vientiane
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Pilot Launch Of New ‘Phuket Model’ To Let Tourists In Likely Next Month
A new model to reopen Phuket to foreign tourists is expected to be piloted in the middle of next month
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Laos To Lose US$483mil In Export Revenue Over COVID-19
The country is still facing a huge trade deficit
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Thailand Not Opening To Foreign Tourists Any Time Soon
Thailand will not be fully reopened to foreign tourists along the lines of the so-called “Phuket Model” any time soon because the government has to consider too many details
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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Garment Makers To Focus On Domestic Market As Foreign Orders Slump
The Lao garment industry is in a slump following a significant drop in orders from foreign countries due to the Covid-19 pandemic and must now rely on the domestic market to sustain its long-time workforce.
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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.
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Laos: Illegal Trade With Terrestrial Vertebrates In Markets And Households
It’s not a surprise to anyone that numerous vertebrate species are being sold at different wildlife markets, but at the moment there is still no comprehensive understanding of how much people are involved in those actions in Laos (Lao PDR), nor what the impact on local wildlife populations really is.
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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Vinamilk Poured An Additional $ 41 Million Into The Dairy Project In Laos
Vinamilk’s investment capital in Lao-Jagro has increased from 25.4 million USD to 66.4 million USD. Additional capital increased to build the first two farms in the complex of high-tech dairy farms in Laos.
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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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Laos Reports 75 Deaths From Road Accidents In July
A total of 75 people were killed in 518 road accidents in Laos during July
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Lao Zoo Refocuses Vision From Entertainment To Education
Lao Conservation Trust for Wildlife (LCTW) is improving Lao Zoo at Ban Keun village in Thoulakhom district, Vientiane province to turn it from a place focusing on entertainment into a hub for conservation and education about native fauna.
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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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Laos To Lose Millions Of Dollars Remitted By Workers Due To Covid-19 Crisis
Laos expects to lose millions dollars in remittances from overseas workers this year following the return of thousands of Lao citizens to the country due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
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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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J&C Marketing Seminar with AustCham Lao
“Marketing Over Coffee” is back with its second edition “Top 5 Facebook Metrics: What they tell you about your business”
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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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Gold Prices Rise Further Amid Covid-19 Pandemic
Gold jewellery prices in Laos on Wednesday were almost 8.8 million kip per baht-weight (15 grams) and 2.2 million kip a sleung (3.75 grams)
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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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Silent Killer Claiming Thousands
The scourge of liver fluke infection can be halted if there is a will to take action
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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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Private Hospital Project In Need Of Foreign Skilled Workers
The Covid-19 crisis resulted in an indefinite delay for the project to build the largest private hospital in Laos.
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Strong Monsoon Generating Thunderstorms In Central, Southern Regions
A strong prevailing southwest monsoon will increase cloud cover across Laos and is expected to lead to thunderstorms with rain and strong winds from July 16-19.
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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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COVID-19: Will AirAsia Be The Next Airline To Fold?
Auditors Ernst & Young noted the “existence of material uncertainties that may cast significant doubt on the group’s and the company’s ability to continue as a going concern.”
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Nearly One-Third Of Tourism-Related Businesses ‘May Shut Down Permanently’: Thailand
The Tourism Council of Thailand estimates that in the next three months up to 30 per cent of tourism-related businesses in Thailand are at risk of shutting down permanently
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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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Four Shot Dead, One Wounded During Bokeo Armed Robbery
Four Chinese nationals were killed and one was injured during an attempted armed robbery in Tonpheung district, Bokeo province on Tuesday with local police still hunting for the assailant.
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Processing Factories Struggle To Stay Afloat
Many manufacturers in Laos are facing challenges to stay afloat even as the government has given them the nod to resume business.
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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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French Int’l School Ends School Year With Perfect Score
100% Baccalaureate success rate including 83.3% of honourable mentions: these are the results of the French International School of Vientiane for the school year 2020.
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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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Insurance Cover for USD100,000 Stipulated for all Returning Foreigners To Thailand
The regulations state that passengers must show they have medical insurance which applies in Thailand and covers anything and everything to do with covering COVID19. The minimum medical coverage in Thailand is for an amount of not less than USD100,000.
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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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Despite Recent Denials, NokScoot Is Closing Down
The Covid-19 pandemic has claimed another victim – regional budget airline NokScoot is closing down.
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PRI·MED Medical Products Announces New Medical PPE Manufacturing Facility in Laos
PRI·MED Medical Products (PRI·MED), a worldwide leader in manufacturing single-use medical personal protective equipment (PPE) including face masks, gowns and examination gloves – has today announced the development of a new manufacturing facility in Vientiane, Laos
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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.
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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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Laos’ Revenues From Coffee Rise Despite Reduction In Plantations
The value of coffee exported by Laos increased as the price of local coffee beans was better this year
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Thai Immigration Crackdown On Illegal Migrants Flowing Back Into The Country
The country’s porous borders have been an ongoing issue with some 5 million+ illegal immigrants floating around Thailand at any one time.
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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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International Flights To Thailand Won’t Resume Until September, Says Aviation Authority
Thailand Civil Aviation Authority (CAAT) has said it will be September before international flights to and from the country resume.
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More Restaurants Resume Services, Some Remain Closed
Several restaurants in Vientiane and tourist destinations across Laos continue to be closed after suspending operations several months ago due to the Covid-19 crisis, and some operators are now seeking new ways to earn a living.
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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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Real Estate Market Expected To Drop Sharply This Year
The real estate market in Laos is expected to decline by 15 percent to 20 percent this year because of the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and a continuing economic slowdown.
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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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Private Quarantine Facilities At Own Cost Offered To Returning Foreigners: Thailand
Foreigners and Thai nationals returning to Thailand from abroad can choose special services at their own expense during their 14 days of quarantine on arrival.
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Nikon Lays Off 700 Workers In Laos and Thailand As Part Of “Structural Reform”
Nikon Corporation has announced that they’ve reduced the number of employees in their Imaging business by 700 at its factories in Thailand and Laos – around 10% of their workforce in each of those locations.
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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.
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Foreigners Allowed To Enter Thailand On Case-By-Case Basis
Under phase 3 of the lockdown relaxation, foreigners with work permits or permission from the Labour Ministry or other government agencies will be allowed to enter the country after registration
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Mass Unemployment The New Normal In SE Asia
A new International Labor Organization report suggests that more than one in six young people worldwide has stopped working since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, while the rest have seen their working hours cut by almost a quarter.
Read more 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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Engaging Men And Boys For A More Equal Post Covid-19 Society
Did you know that in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, on average, the time a woman spends on housework, child care, caring for the sick can be as much as four times more than men?
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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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