World

Laos, Russian Region of Tatarstan Discuss New Trade Opportunities

Russia’s Republic of Tatarstan wants to expand trade and investment with Laos, with the region’s official media describing current economic ties as “practically absent” during a two-day visit by its head to Vientiane on 4 and 5 November. Tatarstan's head Rustam Minnikhanov met Lao Prime Minister Saleumxay Kommasith on 5...

Lao Larb Gets Green Light for UNESCO Recognition

Larb is one step closer to becoming part of UNESCO’s Representative List of the...

Miss Universe Laos 2026 Told to Stop Activities Over Brand Rights

Miss Grand International Public Company Limited (MGI) has demanded that organizers of Miss Universe...

Laos Eyes 500MW Renewable Electricity Export to Singapore

Laos is eyeing a major expansion of its clean energy exports following a proposed...

Thailand’s AIS Plans USD 43.35 Million Investment in Lao Telecom

Thailand’s mobile operator AIS plans to invest USD 43.35 million in Lao Telecom, one...

Thais Navigate Flooded Homes, Ancient Temples by Boat

By Watsamon TRI-YASAKDA/AFP - For three months, Thai retiree Somkid Kijniyom has been sleeping in a small boat surviving on dry food handouts in...

Thailand Set to Lift Afternoon Alcohol Sales Ban

Thailand is preparing to lift its afternoon alcohol sales ban to boost tourism and economic activity. Deputy Prime Minister Sophon Sarum announced the change on...

Laos, North Korea Move to Deepen Cooperation Across Multiple Sectors

Laos and North Korea have agreed to expand cooperation across multiple sectors, reflecting a shared goal of strengthening their long-standing relationship through increased exchanges...

Thailand to End Tax Exemption on Low-Value Online Imports from January 2026

Thailand is set to eliminate its tax exemption for low-value online purchases starting January 2026, imposing import duties and a 7 percent value-added tax...

Lao Government Keeps Majority in Lao Airlines as COMAC Takes 49% Stake

On 10 November, the Lao government confirmed an agreement with the Chinese state-owned aircraft manufacturer, Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC). Under the deal,...

Japan Plans to Raise Visa Fees from 2026 Amid Overtourism Concerns

Japan plans to raise its visa issuance fees for foreign visitors starting in the 2026 fiscal year, as the country faces an unprecedented tourism...