Vientiane Authorities Order Businesses and Major Retail Chains to Hold Prices Ahead of Pi Mai Lao

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Authorities in Vientiane Capital have instructed businesses, markets, local sellers, and major retail chains to keep prices stable ahead of Pi Mai Lao, as part of efforts to manage rising holiday demand.

The Department of Industry and Commerce said it is working directly with large supermarkets, shopping centres, and convenience stores, including 7-Eleven, Mini Big C, and J-Mart, to prevent price increases, hoarding, and unfair practices during the festive period.

The authorities have also instructed local businesses to maintain stable pricing and ensure enough stock is available, especially for goods in high demand during the Lao New Year. These include fuel, cooking gas, sticky rice, pork, fish, eggs, and commonly used imported items.

Officials stressed that all products must meet quality standards. Expired or substandard goods are banned, and all items must be clearly labelled in Lao with prices displayed in kip.

Inspection teams will be deployed across all nine districts to monitor compliance, with a focus on popular shopping locations where demand is expected to rise, the ministry’s notice read. 

The move comes as higher fuel costs continue to affect transport and imported goods, increasing pressure on prices. 

According to the notice, coordination with border authorities will be further strengthened to control illegal imports and ensure a steady supply of goods during the holiday.

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