Amidst the much-anticipated inauguration of Bokeo International Airport on 5 February, excitement was dampened by the sudden announcement of the indefinite termination of Bokeo-Vientiane flights by Lao Airlines.
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.
Bird Flu Outbreak Detected in Vientiane Market
The Department of Livestock and Fisheries, under the Lao Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, officially confirmed an outbreak of H5N1 bird flu at Danxang market in Xaythany district, Vientiane, on 2 February.
Debt-Stricken Sri Lanka Signs a Free Trade Pact With Thailand

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka (AP) — Debt-stricken Sri Lanka signed a trade pact with Thailand on 3 January in a bid to boost trade and investment as the Indian Ocean island nation is struggling to recover from its worst economic crisis that hit two years ago.
Bodybuilding, E-Sports Included in 2025 Lao National Games
Bodybuilding and e-sports are set to feature at the Lao National Games in 2025. The decision comes in the wake of Laos’ upcoming hosting of the 18th ASEAN Bodybuilding Championship later this year.
Out of Options, Rohingya Are Fleeing Myanmar, Bangladesh by Boat Despite Soaring Death Toll

SYDNEY (AP) — Across a treacherous stretch of water, the Rohingya came by the thousands, then died by the hundreds. And though they know the dangers of fleeing by boat, many of this persecuted people say they will not stop — because the world has left them with no other choice.
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 during Visit Laos Year 2024.
‘ASEAN Drive Tourism Initiative’ Gets Nod from Five Nations
Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Malaysia have greenlighted the “ASEAN Drive Tourism” initiative, which will allow tourists to travel across these countries as a single tourism destination.