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Monday, November 17, 2025
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New Weight-Based Toll Targets Road Damage from Mineral Transport

This Week

Starting in 2026, mineral transport trucks will be charged up to USD 1.5 per ton per trip on routes of 10 kilometers (km) or more, Minister of Public Works and Transport Leklay Sivilay announced on 13 November.

Addressing the 10th Ordinary Session of the 9th National Assembly, Leklay said the new fee aims to reduce overloaded trucks and create a stable funding source for road repairs. For short-haul trips under 10 km, the fee may be lowered based on mutual agreement.
The system is scheduled for launch on 1 January 2026, using modern tolling technology that measures vehicle weight in real time.

Provinces Begin Preparation

To support the rollout, the ministry has authorized provinces and Vientiane Capital to oversee upgrades on key national routes that handle heavy freight and passenger traffic.

These upgrades will boost road capacity to support 11 tons per axle.

Provinces have begun selecting companies that meet technical standards and contractual standards, with several already signing Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) to conduct surveys, feasibility studies, and detailed designs under approved Terms of Reference.

Participant provinces and the capital include Vientiane Capital, Khammouane, Bolikhamxay, Savannakhet, Oudomxay, Xieng Khouang, Huaphan, and Luang Namtha.
The MoUs cover major corridors such as National Road 13 North and South, Road 22 (Phou Kao Lak–Kasi–Meuang Nan), R3, 1D, 1C, 7, 6, 8, and Road 21 (Pakxan–Thasi–Road 1D near the Xaysomboun border).

Marking a new phase of transport modernization, authorities have selected National Road No. 9 as a model project for the Output- and Performance-Based Road Contract and PRTC approaches.

Teams signed a construction contract on 20 October and have already started fieldwork to plan, rehabilitate, and repair the route.

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