Opium cultivation in the Golden Triangle has experienced a notable expansion over the past year, with Myanmar witnessing the most substantial increase due to ongoing civil unrest. In contrast, Laos is observing a decline in opium production.
Myanmar Takes Lead as Largest Opium Source, Laos Defies Trend

Golden Triangle SEZ Under Scrutiny as Western Sanctions Target ‘Scam Farms’

As scam centers continue to pose a threat to Southeast Asia, western countries are taking a stronger stance to mitigate the dangers.
Thai Airport Opens Automated Gates for Foreign Visitors, Streamlines Departure Process
Foreign visitors will have access to the automatic departure passport control lane at Suvarnabhumi Immigration Inspections, Bangkok, Thailand, from 15 December.
China’s President Will Visit Vietnam Weeks After It Strengthened Ties With the US, Japan

BANGKOK (AP) — Chinese President Xi Jinping will arrive in Vietnam on Tuesday, 12 December, seeking to further deepen ties with its neighbor, which is deepening diplomatic relations with Western-aligned countries.
ARISE Plus Project Concludes with Remarkable Achievements, Bolstering Economic Growth in Laos
The Ministry of Industry and Commerce in Laos and the International Trade Centre (ITC) have successfully concluded the European Union (EU)-funded ASEAN Regional Integration Support (ARISE) Plus Laos project in Vientiane Capital.
Laos Targets Global Audience for ‘Visit Laos Year 2024’

In a bid to enhance international tourism in Laos, the government has reached out to countries across the world, extending invitations for their support of “Visit Laos Year 2024.” This nationwide tourism campaign seeks to draw more visitors, ultimately contributing to Laos’ economic growth.
ADB Greenlights Dual Funding Initiatives for Sustainable Urban Development in Luang Prabang
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved two funding projects for the sustainable urban development of the Luang Prabang UNESCO World Heritage Site in northern Laos.
Second Break-In Within 24 Hours in Vientiane Capital Prompts Vigilance Among Residents
Residents in Vientiane Capital are growing increasingly alarmed over a surge in home burglaries. Two consecutive incidents last week have prompted heightened vigilance among locals.