Socio-Economic Development

Lao Migrant Workers Send Home USD 500 Million in First Seven Months of 2026

Lao migrant workers sent an estimated USD 500.7 million back to Laos during the first seven months of 2026, according to the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare.  The ministry shared the figures during a labor migration meeting in Vientiane on 22 September. Employment Department Director General Anousone Khamsingsavath said...

Thailand Approves Loan for New Mekong Bridge in Luang Prabang

Thailand’s Cabinet approved financial assistance for the Lao government to construct the Xiengman-Luang Prabang...

Business, Labor Experts Talk Responsible Business Standards as Laos Prepares for LDC Graduation

Business and labor experts met in Vientiane on 3 September to discuss standard guidelines...

Laos Inflation Reaches 7.7% in August, Remains Above Target

Laos’ inflation rate reached 7.7 percent in August, a slight increase from 7.6 percent...

Laos Tightens Foreign Borrowing Rules as Debt Risks Persist

Laos has tightened controls on foreign borrowing as the government seeks to limit debt...

Laos, Switzerland Strengthen Efforts to Improve Dam Safety

Laos and Switzerland have reaffirmed their commitment to safer hydropower development with the successful convening of the Steering Committee meeting for the Dam Safety...

Celebrating 15 Years of Success: Nam Theun 2 Gala Dinner

On 30 April, Nam Theun 2 Power Company celebrated its 15th anniversary of operation with a grand gala dinner.  The event took place at the...

Laos Seeks Solutions to Address New United States Tariff Hikes

Laos' exports to the United States are expected to face significant impacts following the recently announced tariff increases, prompting the Lao government to seek...

Japan Honors Sonexay Siphandone with Order of the Rising Sun

On 29 April, the Japanese government announced that Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun is conferred on Sonexay Siphandone, Prime Minister...

Vietnam to Establish English as Second Language by 2035

Vietnam is set to establish English as the second language for all general education students by 2035, with full implementation continuing through 2045.  This plan,...

East Asia Pacific Growth Slows in 2025, World Bank Says

East Asia and Pacific has led in economic growth, but to sustain momentum and create jobs, countries must address global uncertainties. Key challenges include...