Health & Environment

Trendy ‘Squishy’ Toys Suspended in Laos Over Chemical Safety Concerns

Laos has ordered the immediate suspension of the import and sale of Squishy toys nationwide after authorities warned that some may contain hazardous chemicals that pose health risks, particularly to children. The Ministry of Industry and Commerce issued the order on 28 July, instructing provincial industry and commerce departments across...

Laos Eyes State Fuel Stations as Future EV Charging Hubs

Laos is exploring plans to turn state-owned fuel stations into electric vehicle (EV) fast-charging...

Lao Government Suspends Mining Company Over River Pollution in Vang Vieng

The Lao government has ordered Daochalearn Mineral Processing Sole Co., Ltd. to immediately suspend...

Former MRC Chief Anoulak Kittikhoun Named First Lao Head of Mekong Institute

Former Mekong River Commission (MRC) Chief Executive Officer Anoulak Kittikhoun has been appointed Executive...

Laos Turns to Public-Private Partnership to Tighten Product Quality Controls

Laos has launched a new state-backed company to inspect and certify the quality of...

Thousands of Fish Die After Nam Ou Hydropower Discharge

Authorities at the five Nam Ou River Basin Hydropower project in Phongsaly Province issued a notice this week stating that the release of stored...

Luang Prabang Dam Developer Shares Progress With Mekong Countries

The Lao government welcomed a Mekong River Commission delegation last week to showcase the development progress of its third Mekong mainstream hydropower project. While...

Vientiane Capital Suffers Flash Floods Due to Poor Drainage and Infrastructure Maintenance

Flash flooding has been reported in parts of Vientiane Capital this week, with residents saying the chronic issue is caused by poor drainage. Residents in...

How Starbucks Foundation and Planet Water Foundation Brought Clean Water to School in Laos

Access to clean drinking water is a basic human right, but for many people around the world, it is still a challenge. According to...

Laos’ Deputy Minister of Health Calls for Improved Healthcare Services

The Lao Deputy Minister of Health, Dr. Phayvanh Keopaseuth, called on healthcare professionals and administrators in the country earlier this month, to improve the...

Beijing Heatwave Clouds Long Weekend and Sets Multi-day Temperature Record

Beijing and parts of northern China are experiencing record temperatures, with authorities urging people to limit their time outdoors. The Nanjiao observatory in southern Beijing...