Business

Laos Cuts 7-Day Base Interest Rate to 7% as Economic Risks Persist

The Bank of Laos (BOL) has cut its seven-day base interest rate from 8 percent to 7 percent a year as inflation remains below the government’s 8 percent target. The Monetary Policy Committee approved the cut at its meeting on 20 August, where it reviewed monetary policy, economic conditions, fuel...

Laos Studies USD 1 Billion Vientiane-Lidu Industrial Park in Pakngum

On 13 August, Laos agreed to study the development of a new industrial park...

Vientiane Halts New Microfinance, Pawnshop Licenses Amid Regulatory Review

On 31 July, the Bank of the Lao PDR (BoL) suspended applications for new...

Lao Authorities, Lao Bank Seek Legal Action Against Thai Media Over Money Laundering Claims

On 31 July, Lao authorities and Lao Development Bank (LDB) met with Thailand's Central...

Chinese Commerce Chamber Urges Businesses in Laos to Cut Ties with Scam Networks

The General Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Laos has told its members to check...

Lao Government Rolls Out New Tax Regulations on E-Commerce

The Ministry of Finance announced a new regulation on mandatory tax payments for all digital shopping platforms in its latest notice, released on 14...

Lao Government Green Lights 1200 MW Wind Power Project, Largest to Date

In a major boost for renewable energy in Southeast Asia, the Lao government signed a Project Development Agreement (PDA) with Savan Vayu Renewable Energy...

Rising Interest in Chinese Language Reflects Future Job Prospects for Lao Youth

The younger generation in Laos is showing a growing interest in learning the Chinese language, recognizing the potential for future job opportunities amidst a...

Laos Exceeds Agricultural Export Target, Trade Deficit Remains

Over the past year, Laos earned an estimated USD 1.4 billion from agricultural exports, exceeding targets set by the government by 20.18 percent. According to...

BCEL Launches New Payment App for Tourists During Visit Laos Year 2024

Banque pour le Commerce Exterieur Lao Public (BCEL) has unveiled the EZyKip application in a bid to streamline currency exchange for tourists visiting Laos...

At Trendy Japanese Cafés, Customers Enjoy Cuddling With Pigs

TOKYO (AP) — First there were cafés that allowed pets. Then came cat cafés, where lattes took second place to feline interaction. The latest...