Laos and Thailand discussed expanding energy cooperation during talks in Bangkok on 1 May between Lao and Thai energy officials.
Lao Minister of Industry and Commerce Malaithong Kommasith and Thai Energy Minister Akanat Promphan described the energy sector as a key driver of economic ties between the two countries, particularly as regional demand for electricity and fuel continues to rise.
According to Lao officials, Laos exported more than USD 2.34 billion worth of electricity to Thailand in 2025, while Thailand exported between USD 1.5 billion and USD 1.8 billion in fuel products to Laos.
Thailand remains Laos’ largest electricity buyer, with hydropower exports forming a major part of Laos’ economy. Laos has long promoted itself as the “Battery of Southeast Asia,” exporting electricity to neighboring countries including Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and China.
Thai investment in Laos’ energy sector also continues to expand. Officials said Thai investors are currently involved in six power projects under construction with a combined installed capacity of 3,613.2 megawatts, alongside 16 operational projects generating 7,688.9 megawatts.
Combined investment across the projects exceeds USD 14.7 billion.
The discussions also covered long-term energy security and regional electricity integration, including cross-border power trade under ASEAN energy connectivity plans. Thailand has increasingly relied on electricity imports from Laos as it seeks to diversify energy sources and manage domestic electricity costs linked to volatile global fuel prices.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Malaithong invited the Thai energy minister to make an official visit to Laos for further discussions on future cooperation in the energy sector.


