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Monday, October 13, 2025
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Regional

ADB Lowers Laos’ 2025 Growth Forecast to 3.7 Percent Amid Economic Challenges

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has lowered Laos’ 2025 GDP growth forecast from 3.9 percent to 3.7 percent, citing debt vulnerabilities, weak demand, and trade tensions.  The ADB’s September report notes that despite resilience in key sectors, ongoing fiscal and external challenges continue to weigh on the economy. Despite these headwinds,...

Laos-China Railway Transported Over 15 Million Passengers Since Early 2025

The Laos-China Railway (LCR) transported 15.48 million passengers from January through 8 October this...

Thousands Stranded as Record Floods Submerge Vietnam Streets

By Tran Thi Minh Ha/AFP - Record floods submerged streets and inundated homes in...

SEA Games Mascot Redesign Sparks Debate Over National Identity

The redesign of the 33rd Southeast Asian (SEA) Games 2025 mascot has stirred debate...

East Asia, Pacific Face Slower Growth Without Job-Focused Reforms

World Bank Laos - East Asia and the Pacific continue to grow faster than...

H&M Opens First Store in Cambodia

The first H&M clothing retailer opened in Phnom Penh last week with a celebration that featured celebrities and discounts. The Sweden-based franchise offers men’s,...

Myanmar-Thai Bridge Bombed, Interrupting Trade

A concrete bridge between Myanmar’s Myawaddy and Thailand’s Mae Sot was bombed on 11 March by an anti-junta group. The Nation Thailand reports that...

Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand Open to Free, Independent Travel

Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand have opened their countries to free, independent travel with a minimum of restrictions. Vietnam’s Ministry of Health announced this week that...

Rice Prices Rise in Asia Amid Stockpiling, Conflict

Global events including lockdowns and conflict have pushed rice prices upward across Asia. Rice prices in Asia rose this week on account of several situations,...

Myanmar to Accept Thai Baht as Currency Weakens

Myanmar is to accept the Thai Baht as currency for border trade amid fears over the strength of the US Dollar and the effect...

Thai Snap Election Proposed for November

Elections could be held in Thailand later this year as a result of a proposed dissolution of the Thai parliament. Deputy Prime Minister of Thailand,...