laos travel statistics

Tourism in Laos

Development of the tourism sector in laos from 1995 to 2020.

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International tourism, number of arrivals - Lao PDR

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Statistical Report on Tourism 2020

Home News Lao PDR Statistical Report on Tourism 2020

The Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism has published the  Statistical report on Tourism Laos   2020 .

The Tourism Development Department (TDD), Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism publishes annually tourism statistics relating to tourist arrivals, foreign exchange earnings from tourism, tourist expenditures, the average length of stay of tourists in Laos as well as tourist profiles, accommodation establishments and occupancy rates.

The purpose of this Statistical Report on Tourism is to provide the public with clear information on an important sector of the Lao economy.

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Laos Tourism Statistics

Laos la: international tourism: expenditures, view laos's laos la: international tourism: expenditures from 1995 to 2016 in the chart:.

Laos LA: International Tourism: Expenditures: % of Total Imports

View laos's laos la: international tourism: expenditures: % of total imports from 1995 to 2016 in the chart:.

Laos LA: International Tourism: Expenditures: for Passenger Transport Items

View laos's laos la: international tourism: expenditures: for passenger transport items from 1995 to 2016 in the chart:.

Laos LA: International Tourism: Expenditures: for Travel Items

View laos's laos la: international tourism: expenditures: for travel items from 1995 to 2016 in the chart:.

Laos LA: International Tourism: Number of Arrivals

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Laos LA: International Tourism: Number of Departures

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Laos LA: International Tourism: Receipts

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Laos LA: International Tourism: Receipts: % of Total Exports

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Laos LA: International Tourism: Receipts: for Passenger Transport Items

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Laos LA: International Tourism: Receipts: for Travel Items

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Laos - Statistics & Facts

A small landlocked country in Southeast Asia, Laos is home to a total population of nearly seven million people. Bordering China, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, and Burma, the country has lagged behind its neighbors in development. Laos is a socialist country, with high government expenditure . Its main import and export partners are regional, but it is in the process of opening up further. Laos is trying to promote development by becoming more friendly to businesses. Over the past decade, the t otal tax rate as a percentage of profits for medium sized businesses has fallen by roughly ten percentage points, and the time required to start a business has decreased by nearly half. This has led to increasing capital formation . It is also relying on increasing official development assistance since the financial crisis around 2008. The Laotian people are rather poor. The country’s per capita gross domestic product continues to lag behind that of Asia’s more developed economies, but it claims more wealth than most of its neighbors. The distribution of employment signals a move away from the agricultural sector towards the services sector, commensurate with the worldwide trend and driven by development. The increase in industry can largely be attributed to the growth of textile industry. Life expectancy at birth is also increasing, suggesting an improvement in medical care. In spite of the country’s setbacks, it is making inroads into modern technical society. Fixed broadband subscriptions have grown significantly over the past few years. However, the vast majority of internet traffic in Laos still passes through mobile phones. An increasing number of registered sellers on Alibaba , the Chinese e-commerce platform, underscores the country’s economic relationships with its largest neighbor. For those that believe that Asia will continue to grow in influence in the coming decades, Laos is a country to watch. This text provides general information. Statista assumes no liability for the information given being complete or correct. Due to varying update cycles, statistics can display more up-to-date data than referenced in the text. Show more - Description Aaron O'Neill Research expert covering historical data Published by Aaron O'Neill , Dec 21, 2023

Key insights

Detailed statistics

Total population of Laos 2029

Population growth in Laos 2022

Fertility rate in Laos 2021

Editor’s Picks Current statistics on this topic

Gross domestic product (GDP) per capita in Laos 2029

Age structure in Laos 2012-2022

Further recommended statistics

• Basic Statistic Total population of Laos 2029
• Basic Statistic Population growth in Laos 2022
• Basic Statistic Fertility rate in Laos 2021
• Basic Statistic Crude birth rate in Laos 2011-2021
• Basic Statistic Life expectancy at birth in Laos 2021
• Basic Statistic Life expectancy at birth in Laos 2021, by gender
• Basic Statistic Age structure in Laos 2012-2022
• Basic Statistic Median age of the population in Laos 2020
• Premium Statistic Death rate in Laos 2021
• Premium Statistic Mortality rate in Laos 2021, by gender
• Basic Statistic Infant mortality rate in Laos 2021
• Basic Statistic Urbanization in Laos 2022

Laos: Total population from 2019 to 2029 (in million inhabitants)

Laos: Population growth from 2012 to 2022 (compared to previous year)

Laos: Fertility rate from 2011 to 2021

Crude birth rate in Laos 2011-2021

Laos: Birth rate from 2011 to 2021 (per 1,000 inhabitants)

Life expectancy at birth in Laos 2021

Laos: Life expectancy at birth from 2011 to 2021

Life expectancy at birth in Laos 2021, by gender

Laos: Life expectancy at birth from 2011 to 2021, by gender

Laos: Age structure from 2012 to 2022

Median age of the population in Laos 2020

Laos: Average age of the population from 1950 to 2100 (median age in years)

Death rate in Laos 2021

Laos: Death rate from 2011 to 2021 (in deaths per 1,000 inhabitants)

Mortality rate in Laos 2021, by gender

Laos: Adult mortality rate from 2011 to 2021 (per 1,000 adults), by gender

Infant mortality rate in Laos 2021

Laos: Infant mortality rate from 2011 to 2021 (in deaths per 1,000 live births)

Urbanization in Laos 2022

Laos: Urbanization from 2012 to 2022

• Basic Statistic Gross domestic product (GDP) in Laos 2029
• Basic Statistic Gross domestic product (GDP) per capita in Laos 2029
• Basic Statistic Gross domestic product (GDP) growth rate in Laos 2029
• Basic Statistic Laos: Share in global GDP adjusted for PPP 2029
• Basic Statistic Share of economic sectors in GDP in Laos 2022
• Basic Statistic Employment by economic sector in Laos 2021
• Basic Statistic Unemployment rate in Laos 2023
• Basic Statistic Youth unemployment rate in Laos in 2023
• Basic Statistic Inflation rate in Laos 2029
• Premium Statistic Import of goods to Laos 2022
• Premium Statistic Import of commodities to Laos 2022
• Basic Statistic Most important import partners of Laos 2019
• Premium Statistic Export of goods from Laos 2022
• Premium Statistic Export of commodities from Laos 2022
• Basic Statistic Most important export partner countries for Laos in 2021
• Premium Statistic Trade balance of goods of Laos 2022

Gross domestic product (GDP) in Laos 2029

Laos: Gross domestic product (GDP) in current prices from 1989 to 2029 (in billion U.S. dollars)

Laos: Gross domestic product (GDP) per capita in current prices from 1989 to 2029 (in U.S. dollars)

Gross domestic product (GDP) growth rate in Laos 2029

Laos: Growth rate of real gross domestic product (GDP) from 2019 to 2029 (compared to the previous year)

Laos: Share in global GDP adjusted for PPP 2029

Laos: Share in global gross domestic product (GDP) adjusted for Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) from 2019 to 2029

Share of economic sectors in GDP in Laos 2022

Laos: Share of economic sectors in gross domestic product (GDP) from 2012 to 2022

Employment by economic sector in Laos 2021

Laos: Distribution of employment by economic sector from 2011 to 2021

Unemployment rate in Laos 2023

Laos: Unemployment rate from 2004 to 2023

Youth unemployment rate in Laos in 2023

Laos: Youth unemployment rate from 2004 to 2023

Inflation rate in Laos 2029

Laos: Inflation rate from 1989 to 2029 (compared to the previous year)

Import of goods to Laos 2022

Laos: Import of goods from 2012 to 2022 (in billion U.S. dollars)

Import of commodities to Laos 2022

Laos: Import of commodities in 2022 (in million U.S. dollars)

Most important import partners of Laos 2019

Laos: Main import partners in 2019

Export of goods from Laos 2022

Laos: Export of goods from 2012 to 2022 (in billion U.S. dollars)

Export of commodities from Laos 2022

Laos: Export of commodities in 2022 (in million U.S. dollars)

Most important export partner countries for Laos in 2021

Laos: Main export partners in 2021

Trade balance of goods of Laos 2022

Laos: Trade balance of goods from 2012 to 2022 (in billion U.S. dollars)

National finances

• Premium Statistic National debt of Laos 2029
• Basic Statistic National debt of Laos in relation to gross domestic product (GDP) 2029
• Basic Statistic Ratio of government expenditure to gross domestic product (GDP) in Laos 2029
• Basic Statistic Laos' budget balance in relation to GDP 2029

National debt of Laos 2029

Laos: National debt from 2019 to 2029 (in billion U.S. dollars)

National debt of Laos in relation to gross domestic product (GDP) 2029

Laos: National debt in relation to gross domestic product (GDP) from 2019 to 2029

Ratio of government expenditure to gross domestic product (GDP) in Laos 2029

Laos: Ratio of government expenditure to gross domestic product (GDP) from 2019 to 2029

Laos' budget balance in relation to GDP 2029

Laos: Budget balance between 2019 to 2029 in relation to GDP

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Laos, Singapore, Cambodia Unite to Facilitate Cross-Border Electricity Trade

Singapore, Cambodia, and Laos have formed a working group to push cross-border electricity trade, inching closer to the ASEAN Power Grid vision. 

On 3 June, the Ministries of Trade and Industry of Singapore, Energy and Mines of Laos, and Mines and Energy of Cambodia shook hands and kicked off the working group, setting up three main goals. 

The team will create a comprehensive framework to support the development of cross-border electricity trading projects within ASEAN, starting with collaboration between the three countries.

The group will also streamline regulatory processes and licensing procedures for generating, exporting, and importing electricity. This includes simplifying the application and permitting processes for subsea surveys and the installation of cross-border subsea power cables.

Finally, the members will explore ways to facilitate commercial agreements and promote the development of generation and transmission infrastructure, ensuring smooth cross-border electricity trading among the three nations.

The inaugural meeting of the working group was co-chaired by Singapore’s Second Minister for Trade and Industry Tan See Leng, Laos’ Vice-Minister for Energy and Mines Chansaveng Boungnong, and Cambodia’s Minister for Mines and Energy Keo Rottanak.

During the gathering, Vice-Minister Chansaveng highlighted the project’s importance for Laos, emphasizing its role in achieving the ASEAN Power Grid and leveraging the country’s green energy resources to meet regional clean energy goals. He expressed hope that the project would attract further investment in renewable energy in both Laos and the region.

Tan also expressed optimism about the collaboration, highlighting that the working group aims to create a framework for cross-border electricity trade and address subsea power cable issues in ASEAN. He further encouraged other regional partners to join the initiative.

Minister Rottanak from Cambodia echoed this enthusiasm, noting that their efforts to advance the ASEAN Power Grid and share clean energy efficiently set a strong example. He hoped the partnership would inspire other ASEAN nations to join in building a sustainable and interconnected energy network.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/06/04/laos-singapore-cambodia-unite-to-facilitate-cross-border-electricity-trade/

LOCA Secures Funding from ADB Frontier to Expand Electric Vehicles Fleet, Charging Network

LOCA, Laos’s leading mobility service provider, has received significant funding from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) through ADB Frontier, with support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). This investment will enable LOCA to expand its electric vehicle (EV) fleet and EV charging network across the country.

Founded in 2018, LOCA announced its EV ambition in 2021 when Laos had only 40 EVs. Today, the company operates a fleet of 1,000 drivers, including 600 EV drivers and 150 women drivers. LOCA aims to achieve 100 percent EV integration by 2030 and will cease accepting internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles after 2025.

“This funding from ADB Frontier, supported by USAID, is a huge boost for LOCA and the future of e-mobility in Laos,” said Souliyo Vongdala, Co-founder and CEO of LOCA. “It validates our vision and strengthens our resolve to create a cleaner, greener transportation network.”

With Laos adding 500 new EVs each month, LOCA’s platform now hosts over 10 percent of the country’s EVs. The company is a leader in the EV charging market, capturing over 80 percent of all EV drivers. With 24 charging stations already operational and plans to reach 40 by the end of 2024, LOCA is driving the charge towards a more sustainable future.

“The support from ADB and USAID not only empowers us to expand our fleet but also to enhance our charging infrastructure, ensuring that EV drivers have the necessary support and convenience,” added Phonepasong Mixab, Co-founder and Co-CEO of LOCA. “This is a crucial step in our mission to reduce carbon emissions and promote eco-friendly transportation in Laos.”

LOCA’s commitment to sustainability and innovation has earned widespread support from drivers, customers, and its dedicated team. This new funding is set to accelerate LOCA’s efforts, providing the necessary resources to meet the growing demand for electric vehicles and charging stations.

“This investment is a testament to the incredible progress we’ve made in a short time,” said Souliyo Vongdala. “We are incredibly grateful to our drivers, customers, and team for their unwavering support. Together, we are driving towards a greener and more sustainable future for Laos.”

With this funding, LOCA is poised to continue leading the charge in the e-mobility revolution in Laos, setting a high standard for sustainable transportation solutions in the region.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/05/27/loca-secures-funding-from-adb-frontier-to-expand-electric-vehicles-fleet-charging-network/

Regional Partners Cooperate to Enhance Disaster Monitoring, Response in ASEAN

The Mekong River Commission (MRC) Secretariat and the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management (AHA Centre) have agreed to deepen their engagement, which will bridge the gap between disaster monitoring and response across Southeast Asia.

During a working visit to Jakarta on 17 May, a delegation of officials from the MRC Member Countries and Secretariat headed by the Chief Executive Officer, Anoulak Kittikhoun, signed a Memorandum of Intent (MOI) with the AHA Centre, represented by Executive Director Lee Yam Ming.

The MOI aims to formalize the partnership between these two inter-governmental agencies in disaster monitoring, forecasting, and response; joint training and capacity building; mutual exchange of expertise and experience; and other technical cooperation, including scientific research. It is under the umbrella of the ASEAN-MRC Cooperation Framework.

“This MOI represents a major step in uniting our expertise and resources,” Kittikhoun said. “It bridges the critical gap between disaster monitoring and disaster response, ensuring our region is better prepared for emergencies and our vulnerable communities are better protected.”

Sharing Kittikhoun’s perspective, the AHA Centre’s Executive Director expressed similar sentiments.

“The MOI marks a significant milestone in the history of AHA Centre-MRC relations,” Lee said. “We want to make a positive impact on the people of ASEAN, through better exchange of data and information on disaster monitoring that will make a difference in our disaster preparedness and response endeavors.”

In 2022, Asia experienced 137 out of the 388 global disasters, impacting more than 64 million people and causing almost USD 50 million in damages, according to the World Meteorological Organization. Floods were particularly common, accounting for about 40 percent of all natural disasters worldwide and nearly 70 percent of disasters in ASEAN from 2012 to 2022.

The AHA Centre, with its partners, facilitates cooperation and coordination among ASEAN Member States for disaster management and emergency response in the region. The MRC

acts as a regional platform for water diplomacy and a knowledge hub, promoting dialogue and cooperation in the Lower Mekong River Basin, and providing vital services such as monitoring water levels and forecasting floods and droughts in the Mekong.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/05/24/regional-partners-cooperate-to-enhance-disaster-monitoring-response-in-asean/

Laos Expands Telecommunications Network, Reaching Remote Villages

Laos has achieved a big step in its telecommunications system by adding fiber optic cable that stretches 98,524 kilometers. This means more villages across the country can now get mobile phone signals.

As of now, over 6.1 million mobile phone numbers across Laos have been issued, enabling internet usage, with the public opening more than 4.6 million accounts. Minister of Technology and Communications Boviengkham Vongdara highlighted these achievements  during a press conference  for the 159th anniversary of the World Telecommunication and Information Society on 17 May.

With a specific count of 6,113,455 registered mobile phone numbers, the Ministry of Technology and Communications aims to increase this figure to 6.5 million soon. Also, there are 4,614,752 registered internet users, approaching the ministry’s target of 4.7 million accounts.

Boviengkham reported that mobile phone coverage has expanded to reach 8,245 villages across 148 districts in 18 provinces, covering 97 percent of villages nationwide, with the majority of network users utilizing 3G and 4G access. Meanwhile, the introduction of 5G high-speed internet earlier this year in Vientiane, Luang Prabang, and Bokeo provinces also represents a significant advancement in connectivity.

Currently, Laos hosts five telecommunication service providers and over 20 internet companies, contributing to the country’s economy. In 2023 alone, these entities generated over LAK 5 trillion (USD 234 million) in revenue and paid more than LAK 391 billion (USD 18 million) in taxes to the government.

Additionally, in terms of regional connectivity, Laos has also strengthened its ties with neighboring countries, boasting 18 transmission links, including six with Thailand, five with Vietnam, two with Cambodia and Myanmar each, and three with China.

As World Telecommunication and Information Society Day is observed both globally and locally, it acknowledges the transformative impact of digital innovation. This innovation holds the potential to empower education by breaking down barriers through online platforms, revolutionizing healthcare through telemedicine, and fostering connections within communities through social media.

However, despite these advancements, millions still lack access to digital tools.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/05/22/laos-expands-telecommunications-network-reaching-remote-villages/

North Korea’s World Cup Qualifiers Moved from Pyongyang to Laos

North Korea’s World Cup qualifying matches against Syria and Myanmar have been relocated from Pyongyang, North Korea, to Vientiane, Laos. This decision marks the third and fourth time in recent months that international football matches have been moved out of North Korea.

Originally scheduled to take place at the Kim Il Sung Stadium on 6 and 11 June, both matches will now be held at the Lao National Stadium, also known as KM 16, as  confirmed by the Asian Football Confederation  (AFC).

While the Syrian Football Association (SFA) did not specify the reason for the move,  NK News  reported that Syria requested a neutral venue following their previous home match against North Korea in Saudi Arabia, which they won 1-0.

An official from the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea Football Association indicated in late April that the games would likely proceed as planned in Pyongyang. 

However, on 13 May, the AFC website designated the National Stadium of Laos as the new venue for both matches.

This relocation poses a challenge to North Korea’s World Cup aspirations. However, Korean football expert Steve Price suggests that playing in Laos may still give North Korea an advantage in terms of travel logistics and creating a challenging environment for their opponents.

Additionally, the AFC’s decision to relocate the matches has raised concerns about the integrity of the competition, particularly following North Korea’s previous last-minute cancellation of a World Cup qualifier against Japan in March.

Japan currently leads the group with 12 points, followed by Syria with seven points, North Korea with three points, and Myanmar with one point. The top two teams in the group will advance to the next round of World Cup qualifiers and secure a spot in the 2027 AFC Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia.

In related news, North Korea’s U-17 women’s team recently clinched victory in the  AFC U-17 Asian Cup , defeating Japan 1-0 in the final. This success earns them a spot in the U-17 World Cup scheduled to be held in the Dominican Republic later this year.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/05/21/north-koreas-world-cup-qualifiers-moved-from-pyongyang-to-laos/

US Ambassador Heather Variava Outlines Vision for Strengthening Relations with Laos

Heather Variava, the United States (US) Ambassador to Laos, who assumed her position in February this year, spoke with Lao media officials on 14 May in a press conference where she officially introduced herself and shared the vision for her three-year tenure in Laos with the public.

Born and raised in Iowa, US, Ambassador Variava considers herself “a traveler” with a strong love for the Southeast Asia (SEA) region. This is also evident from her previous foreign service work as Deputy Chief of Mission and Charge d’Affaires at the US Embassy in Manila, Philippines, as well as Deputy Chief of Mission and Charge d’Affaires at the US Mission to Indonesia and as US Consul General in Surabaya, Indonesia.

During the conference, Variava beamed with joy as she expressed her utmost gratitude, describing her mission in Laos as a dream coming true. “I have to say that I am very, very fortunate because I am living my dream.”

“My priority as ambassador is primarily to build and expand the US comprehensive partnership that was announced almost 10 years ago by President [Barack] Obama when he visited [Laos] in 2016,” said the ambassador as she outlined her tasks.

She continued, “First, I see that one of the most important ways the US can partner with Laos is by helping it to build its capacity, to build the capacity of its people, to make Laos a more prosperous, stable, independent, sovereign nation within Southeast Asia.”

Strengthening ASEAN Ties: US Support for Laos’s Chairmanship

Heather Variava further emphasized the significant value the United States places upon the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), highlighting the US’s full support for Laos as it chairs the ASEAN meetings this year under the theme of “Connectivity and Resilience.”

“We have provided laptops to Laos to use during the ASEAN chair year to support the staff and the visiting delegations as they come,” said the ambassador. “We have provided stationery and other supplies, again, to support Laos in a logistical sense when it comes to the ASEAN chair year.”

The US Ambassador also noted the arrival of several delegations from both the US government and private sectors to Laos. Variava specified that the support and collaboration between the US and ASEAN are “just getting started.” As stated by the ambassador, US senior officials are very much interested in holding meetings with Laos to further explore potential collaborations in its ASEAN chairmanship.

Acknowledging the Visit Laos Year 2024 campaign as the most important for Laos as ASEAN chair, the ambassador stressed the US’s support for the country in the area of tourism. She underscored how Americans are one of the top five contributors to tourism in Laos, noting that Laos’s cultural heritage is the country’s vital point in attracting tourists, especially those from the US. Variava believes that protecting the country’s cultural heritage would help Laos become an even more attractive tourism destination.

An example she brought up was when the US Embassy took part in the national handicraft branding event “in which the US Agency for International Development partnered with Laos to highlight and ensure the sort of protection of the cultural and intellectual property that is part of Laos’s rich cultural heritage.”

Advancing Health and Well-being: US Initiatives in Rural Laos

Apart from the support for Laos’s ASEAN chairmanship, the US Embassy also pays attention to issues on a smaller scale, the roots of which play a huge part in pushing Laos to prosperity—particularly focusing on children, especially those in rural areas where opportunities and access to health care are scarce.

Variava stated that the US has been cooperating with the Lao government to elevate the quality of life for rural residents, especially women and children. She mentioned the work of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), which has contributed immensely in providing maternal and child health and nutrition. The support involves providing beneficial nutrition for mothers and babies, assisting them in accessing quality health care to help mothers raise their children safely, and ensuring young people have what they need to grow up healthy.

“We’ve devoted somewhere in the neighborhood of USD 40 million in that area in recent years. We also work with the government of Laos and the Ministry of Health, which is a great partner of ours in the areas of infectious diseases. So our Centers for Disease Control and the Defense Threat Reduction Agency help build Laos’s capacity to detect, prevent, and respond to infectious disease. And that could be COVID, malaria, HIV/AIDS, or any other new disease that might emerge.”

She also highlighted the attention the US has been giving to people with disabilities in Laos, which she personally considers one of her “serious responsibilities.”

“I would emphasize that all of our assistance goes to people with disabilities regardless of the cause of their disability.”

The ambassador noted the US’s assistance in helping people with disabilities in a practical approach, including providing prosthetics to those who need such equipment, all the way up to supporting those with disabilities to become more integrated into society to have economic opportunities and opportunities to start their own businesses.

By prioritizing economic collaboration, cultural preservation, health initiatives, and support for people with disabilities, Ambassador Variava is poised to make meaningful contributions to Laos’s development and its role within ASEAN. Her vision and proactive approach signal a promising future for the bilateral ties between the US and Laos, highlighting a shared commitment to prosperity, stability, and mutual respect.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/05/20/us-ambassador-heather-variava-outlines-vision-for-strengthening-relations-with-laos/

Record Surge in Individuals Crossing Third Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge in Early 2024

In the initial months of 2024, a total of 85,871 people crossed the Third Thai-lao Friendship Bridge, which links Khammouane Province, Laos, and Nakhon Phanom Province, Thailand, according to Soukthong Vongsa, the head of cross-border immigration police in Laos.

These  figures show  a surge of 3,937 people compared to the same period in 2023.

Soukthong noted the diligence of local authorities in enforcing regulations on individuals’ entry and exit. However, challenges persist, notably the absence of modern inspection tools like X-ray machines, hindering the detection of illegal items concealed in luggage, personal belongings, and vehicles entering and exiting.

Efforts to bolster tourism during Visit Laos Year 2024 include enhancing document notification services, expanding service availability, and ensuring peace and order at checkpoint locations, meticulously mapped out to monitor the orderly flow of tourists and passengers entering Laos.

As the country aims at fortifying tourism initiatives throughout Visit Laos Year 2024, government authorities are stepping up efforts in infrastructure development. The projects include renovation of buildings, workplaces, offices, electrical systems, and street lights. Furthermore, improvements extend to the interior of buildings and the checkpoint courtyard, aiming to enhance convenience, cleanliness, and appeal to attract more visitors to Khammouane Province.

To further promote tourism in Laos, the country is set to  launch the fifth bridge  in November, connecting Bueng Kan Province, Thailand, with Paksan district, Bolikhamxay Province, Laos. The bridge is currently at 95 percent completion.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/05/16/record-surge-in-individuals-crossing-third-thai-lao-friendship-bridge-in-early-2024/

Laos Launches New E-commerce Platform for Agricultural Products, Supported by Chinese Government

After two years in the work, a new e-commerce platform for Lao agriculture products has finally been launched to promote both domestic trade and across borders.

The platform features two versions, serving two different purposes including the  domestic platform  and.as the  cross-border platform . Both sites are under the support of the Chinese government and implementation of the Trade Promotion and Handicrafts Department of the Ministry of Industry and Commerce of Laos.

The launch ceremony officially  kicked off  on 13 May at the Don Chan Palace Hotel. According to the Chinese Charge d’ Affaires Wang Chang,  building e-commerce in Laos falls into one of the eight major projects of the Chinese government’s support towards their Lao counterpart. While the project would contribute to Laos’s development and generate income for its citizens, it would also enhance the digital trade relationship between Laos and China by promoting the export of Lao agricultural products and industrial handicrafts to China.

Director General of the Trade Promotion and Handicrafts Department, Vithoun Sitthimorada  added that the website will prove greatly beneficial to the Lao government employees, producers and representatives of business units in more ways than one. The platform is capable of providing technical support for e-commerce system administration, establishing a development model for e-commerce to reach rural areas to link information to produce results, achieving online buying and selling between producers and consumers, and encouraging the export of products abroad.

Lao state media suggested this achievement as a significant national milestone for Laos.The project promises the promotion of production as a commodity, the stimulation of trade and investment, the creation of job opportunities, the establishment of connections between producers and consumers both domestically and internationally, and the encouragement of a shift from traditional production patterns to new ones.

The past two years of e-commerce in Laos have mostly seen locals  ordering online  from neighboring countries, including Thailand, China, and Vietnam. This trend is often attributed to the lack of e-commerce platforms in Laos and the customers’ demands for a broader variety of products compared to what’s available within Laos.

As e-commerce slowly but surely grows, it is evident that Laos is moving towards a digital era with aims to meet the growing demand of people from all sorts of different sectors, ultimately revolutionizing the world of trade and sales of the country.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/05/15/laos-launches-new-e-commerce-platform-for-agricultural-products-supported-by-chinese-government/

Laos-Thailand Railway Prepares for Official Opening with Trial Runs

Laos and Thailand have commenced a trial run of the new cross-border railway service before its official launch, which is expected to be announced within the upcoming few months.

Operated by the  Lao National Railway  State Enterprise under the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, in collaboration with the State Railway of Thailand (SRT), the trials are scheduled to take place between 14 and 17 May from Thanaleng Railway Station to Vientiane Khamsavath Station in Laos.

After this initial trial run, the testing will further extend from Udon Thani Railway Station and Nong Khai Station in Thailand to Laos’ Thanaleng Railway Station and Khamsavath Station from 18-20 May. 

The construction of the Lao-Thai Railway Project  began in 2013  with an initial completion target set for the end of 2021. However, the Khamsavath Station project encountered delays, resulting in its completion in 2023.

The Lao-Thai Railway and the Laos-China Railway are crucial components of a  regional rail network  aimed at connecting China to Singapore through Laos, Thailand, and Malaysia. 

While the rail train was anticipated, the first regional express freight train from  China-Laos-Thailand-Malaysia , carrying 30 containers of electronics and vehicles, recently departed from Chengdu, China. Its destination is Port Klang, Malaysia, with stops in Laos and Thailand along the way.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/05/15/laos-thailand-railway-prepares-for-official-opening-with-trial-runs/

Lao, Russian Presidents Celebrate 30 Years of Friendship in Moscow

Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith met with Russian President Vladimir Putin on 9 May in Moscow during his visit to Russia from 7 to 11 May. The leaders praised the strong and growing relationship between their countries and reaffirmed their commitment to enhance cooperation, particularly in trade, defense, and cultural exchange.

President Thongloun  highlighted  the successful implementation of the Treaty on Amity signed three decades ago, stating that the current period favors the further development of bilateral relations and friendship. He proposed continued cooperation and the implementation of various proposals to deepen ties.

Putin acknowledged the recent 12-percent growth in two-way trade and economic relations. He also mentioned the expansion of defense and security cooperation and expressed gratitude for Laos’ support of Russian language studies.

During his visit, Thongloun also attended the Victory Day parade in Moscow, marking the 79th anniversary of the Great Victory in the Great Patriotic War. The Russian president thanked Laos for providing T-34 tanks to Russia, which he described as symbols of victory. Putin emphasized that fostering a strategic partnership with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is a key foreign policy priority for Russia.

In addition to meeting with Vladimir Putin, President Thongloun held talks with Dmitry Medvedev, Chairman of the United Russia Political Party to further strengthen ties between the two countries.

The meeting between the two presidents marks a significant milestone in the 30-year friendship between Laos and Russia. Both leaders expressed optimism about the future of their relationship and the continued growth of cooperation in various fields.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/05/13/lao-russian-presidents-celebrate-30-years-of-friendship-in-moscow/

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Travel advisory july 24, 2023, laos - level 2: exercise increased caution.

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Exercise increased caution to Laos due to  civil unrest . Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

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Passenger travel on Laos-China Railway reaches record heights

Thursday, 06 Jun 2024

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A crowd of people disembark from a train on the Laos-China Railway. - Vientiane Times/ANN

VIENTIANE: The Laos-China Railway has operated more than 10,000 passenger trains since the start of this year, carrying a record number of passengers.

According to statistics from the Kunming branch of the Laos-China Railway Company, from January 1 to May 31, the railway ran 10,642 passenger trains carrying 8,723,000 passengers.

This was an increase of 17.5 percent compared to the same period in 2023, and has been a driving force in the development of the region.

A supervisor at the Passenger Transportation Department of the Laos-China Railway Company Kunming Branch said passenger trains are cheap, fast and convenient.

They have become the main choice of travel for tourists, students and businesspeople and are fostering cultural exchanges as well as creating economic prosperity in the region.

The Laos-China Railway is a landmark symbol of the friendship between Laos and China and has been a great boost to the success of Visit Laos Year 2024.

The new Guizhou-Vientiane route is a high-quality addition to the Laos-China tourist industry and a promising sign of exciting new developments in the years to come.

Since the end of 2023, the Laos-China Railway Company Limited and the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism have sought to bolster tourism in Laos through greater use of the railway.

This is being done by increasing the number of train trips and operating two trains together, making it easier for groups of tourists to buy tickets, creating an app that enables people to buy tickets online and developing more payment channels, and serving more food and drinks on trains.

Changes will be made to reduce the time taken to go through customs and immigration at the Laos-China border, while more stops will be added and other steps taken to improve the quality of train services.

The number of tourists coming to Laos via the Laos-China Railway is increasing every day, helping to fulfil the government’s ambition to rejuvenate the economy through tourism. - Vientiane Times/ANN

Tags / Keywords: Laos , passengers , Laos-China Railway Company , record high , tourists

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Thailand Relaxes Its Visa Program: Longer Stays For Tourists And Digital Nomads

Beginning next week, Thailand will roll out an initiative that will allow travelers from 93 countries to stay up to 60 days, and relax rules for digital nomads, students and retirees.

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Thailand is pulling out the stops to attract more tourists from a larger pool of countries and for longer stays.

T his week, Thailand’s government announced that it is significantly relaxing its visa program, approving longer stays for tourists, students and remote workers in an initiative that will allow travelers from 93 countries (up from 57) to stay 60 days (up from 30).

The changes will go into effect on June 1.

For digital nomads, as well as self-employed and remote workers, visas will extend to five years—a significant jump from 60 days—with each stay limited to 180 days, Thai government spokesperson Chai Wacharonke said at a press conference. Previously, digital nomads were allowed only two 30-day stays.

Foreign postgraduate students will be able to stay an additional year after graduation.

In addition, Thailand is drastically lowering insurance requirements for foreign retirees. Currently, retirees aged 50 years and up must have health insurance coverage of 3 million baht (nearly $82,000). The new requirement will be just 440,000 baht ($12,000).

Thailand is hoping these moves will collectively help juice its stuttering economy. Earlier this month, the finance ministry reduced its 2024 economic growth forecast to 2.4% from 2.8%. The country is aiming for a record 40 million foreign tourism arrivals in 2024, with an anticipated revenue of 3.5 trillion baht ($95.3 billion).

Around the world, there’s a marked trend toward fewer countries requiring traditional paper visas affixed in a passport, according to UN Tourism’s latest Tourism Visa Openness Report , which revealed that just 47% of travelers in 2023 required a traditional visa, falling steadily from 77% in 2008 and 59% in 2018. Instead, travelers are finding looser rules and less friction when traveling to destinations around the world. Today 21% of the world’s population does not need any visa—up from 17% in 2008—and visa-on-arrivals and eVisas are popping up around the world.

This trend is most visible in the Middle East and Africa. Consider that in 2015, about seven in 10 people in the world needed to obtain a visa prior to visiting the Middle East. By last year, that figure had dropped to 57%.

The list of countries soon eligible for visa-free short stays in Thailand include large tourism source markets like China and India, as well as U.S., U.K., Albania, Cambodia, Jamaica, Kazakhstan, Laos, Mexico, Morocco, Panama, Romania, Sri Lanka, UAE and Uzbekistan.

A Thai visa-on-arrival will soon be available for 31 countries (up from 19), including Armenia, Fiji, Malta, Saudi Arabia and Serbia.

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The Tourism Development Department of Laos recently released a report informing that over 1.6 million international tourists visited Laos until June 2023.

The report reveals that from January to June 2023, a total of 1,674,436 tourists traveled to Laos. The top five countries whose citizens visited the country include Thailand (668,595), Vietnam (398,937), China (317,604), South Korea (72,958), and the United States (30,455).

Notably, the ASEAN countries accounted for the largest number of visitors, with 1,099,109 arrivals, followed by 427,520 visitors from the Asia-Pacific region, 100,615 visitors from Europe, 41,452 visitors from the Americas, and 5,740 visitors from Africa and the Middle East.

Comparing these figures to the January-September period in 2022 , when Laos welcomed over a million tourists, it is expected that the country will reach or even exceed the two million visitor mark by the end of 2023.

The increase in tourist arrivals can be attributed, in part, to international media coverage from renowned publications such as Australian Travel Publication , National Geographic , CNN , Wanderlust , and Fodor’s , which have highlighted Laos as a must-visit destination.

Additionally, Laos is also currently preparing for an influx of Thai holidaymakers as the neighboring nation celebrates a six-day holiday. This is expected to further boost tourism and hospitality businesses in the country.

Laos has set ambitious goals for its tourism industry and aims to attract over four million visitors in 2024 . To achieve this, the government plans to invest in infrastructure renovations, produce tourism advertising materials, develop QR codes for tourism sites, and create a comprehensive tourism handbook.

With a revenue target of USD 712 million, Laos is determined to showcase its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty as key attractions for tourists visiting the country.

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