Laos and China have launched a new international bus route connecting Xiang Hung City in Yunnan Province to Xiang Kok village in Luang Namtha, creating a direct overland link along a previously less accessible corridor.
Officials marked the launch on 11 April at the ASEAN Comprehensive International Transport Service Center in Xishuangbanna, Yunnan. The opening coincided with the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Laos and China and the ongoing China–Laos Friendship Year.
How the Route Works
The route spans about 280 kilometers, starting from Jinghong City in Xishuangbanna and crossing into Laos through the Mengman Chahe Port before reaching Xiang Kok village.
The service runs one round trip daily, with a one-way journey taking seven to eight hours. A one-way ticket costs 158 yuan, around LAK 300,000 (USD 22).
The route offers direct, point-to-point travel, removing the need for multiple transfers that previously made the journey difficult for passengers.
Chinese media reported that He Shenglong, Director of the Comprehensive Transportation Department of Yunnan Provincial Department of Transportation, said the route strengthens cross-border transport systems, improves port efficiency, and enhances service standards.
He said the route will help attract investment, boost tourism, and support trade and logistics along the corridor.
Laos and China began discussions on cross-border transport cooperation in May 2025 in Kunming. Officials inspected proposed routes in July, followed by trial operations for the Jinghong–Xiang Kok route in December the same year.
Authorities officially launched the service this month.
Different from Existing Route
The new service marks the second cross-border bus route between the two countries but differs from the earlier Mohan–Boten shuttle.
The Mohan–Boten route connects railway stations over a short 16-kilometer distance and mainly serves passengers using the Laos–China Railway.
Meanwhile, the Xiang Hung–Xiang Kok route operates as a standalone intercity service along a western corridor that previously lacked direct public transport, opening access to areas once limited to traders and local communities.
Boosting Trade and Tourism
Authorities expect the route to support cross-border trade, increase tourist flows, and create new business opportunities.
Luang Namtha, a key gateway for trade and eco-tourism in northern Laos, stands to benefit from increased visitor traffic. The route also strengthens connectivity between Yunnan and Southeast Asia.
Officials said the new service will support sustainable economic development and deepen cooperation between Laos and China.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/508e62fcead448c9a913f4dfd49ac76f.webp8101080Soutsada Xaphouvonghttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSoutsada Xaphouvong2026-05-16 09:17:002026-05-15 10:19:45Laos, China Launch New Cross-Border Bus Route Linking Yunnan to Luang Namtha
Travel companies bringing tourists into Laos must now attach confirmed hotel booking documents to their entry paperwork, the Tourism Police Department announced.
According to the 12 May notice, tour operators are required to submit a detailed set of documents to the government before tourists arrive, including passenger name lists, passport details, travel itineraries, arrival and departure checkpoints, intended hotels, daily activity schedules, and tour guide information.
The new rule adds one more step: listing a hotel name in the itinerary is no longer enough. Companies must now attach the actual confirmed booking document for every night of the trip, from the day tourists arrive to the day they leave.
Authorities said the change supports a government drive to move tourist accommodation records into a modern digital system, with the aim of improving safety, security, and the overall visitor experience in the country.
The move comes as Laos pushes to grow its tourism sector. The country welcomed 4.58 million international visitors in 2025 and is now targeting between 5 and 6 million arrivals in 2026.
All previously required documents remain mandatory and no existing paperwork needs to be refiled. However, any company that does not yet collect official hotel confirmation documents as part of its standard booking process must update its procedures immediately. Applications submitted without the new attachments risk delays or outright rejection.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/LT-Website-Size-61-3.png6271200Soutsada Xaphouvonghttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSoutsada Xaphouvong2026-05-15 07:43:002026-05-14 15:50:59Laos Orders Travel Companies to Attach Hotel Booking Confirmations of Clients
Attapeu has launched an ambitious plan to restore over 8,800 hectares of forest in 2026, aiming to increase forest coverage and address growing environmental challenges.
The initiative will include the restoration of 8,200 hectares of degraded land and the promotion of 630 hectares of new tree plantations. This restoration is part of a larger effort to combat the effects of climate change and environmental degradation, and it is set to align with the upcoming National Arbor Day on 1 June.
The provincial authorities have announced that they will prepare planting sites, seedlings, and restoration areas ahead of the national planting campaign. By 25 May, all planting sites must be identified, with land preparation and fertilizing to be completed by the end of May. In total, more than 250,000 saplings are planned for the year.
The restoration efforts will also include the establishment of 1,000 hectares of plantation areas and village-managed forests in three villages. The provinces are particularly focused on youth participation and climate change awareness, with public awareness campaigns aimed at encouraging both local communities and schools to get involved in the project.
Forest Fires and Rising Environmental Pressure
This major reforestation campaign comes in response to escalating environmental concerns in Laos, particularly the increasing frequency of forest fires and air pollution linked to land burning activities.
Recent data from the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment shows that Laos recorded over 16,000 fire hotspots in the first quarter of 2026 alone, largely due to slash-and-burn farming practices.
This has compounded the country’s environmental challenges, with a particularly destructive forest fire in Phou Phanang National Park that burned over 1,400 hectares in April.
The Attapeu reforestation initiative also aligns with Laos’ national forestry strategy, which aims to increase the country’s forest coverage to 70 percent by 2035. This ambitious goal is in response to the significant loss of Laos’ forests over the past two decades, primarily due to commercial farming, logging, and land conversion.
Laos has lost approximately 58 percent of its intact forest landscapes in the past 20 years, with agriculture and infrastructure development being the primary drivers of deforestation. Reforestation efforts are critical in mitigating the negative impacts of climate change and securing the future of Laos’ natural resources.
Looking Ahead
The Attapeu reforestation campaign also aligns with Laos’ broader environmental goals. As the initiative progresses, it will be closely monitored to track progress toward the 70 percent forest coverage target. Officials also noted that it is essential to maintain newly planted trees and restore degraded forest areas to ensure the long-term health of the country’s forests.
The Attapeu administration’s efforts are part of a nationwide drive to combat climate change, improve forest coverage, and address the environmental challenges facing Laos. By prioritizing forest restoration, Laos aims to protect its natural resources, improve air quality, and contribute to the global fight against climate change.
Laos, China Launch New Cross-Border Bus Route Linking Yunnan to Luang Namtha
Laos and China have launched a new international bus route connecting Xiang Hung City in Yunnan Province to Xiang Kok village in Luang Namtha, creating a direct overland link along a previously less accessible corridor.
Officials marked the launch on 11 April at the ASEAN Comprehensive International Transport Service Center in Xishuangbanna, Yunnan. The opening coincided with the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Laos and China and the ongoing China–Laos Friendship Year.
How the Route Works
The route spans about 280 kilometers, starting from Jinghong City in Xishuangbanna and crossing into Laos through the Mengman Chahe Port before reaching Xiang Kok village.
The service runs one round trip daily, with a one-way journey taking seven to eight hours. A one-way ticket costs 158 yuan, around LAK 300,000 (USD 22).
The route offers direct, point-to-point travel, removing the need for multiple transfers that previously made the journey difficult for passengers.
Chinese media reported that He Shenglong, Director of the Comprehensive Transportation Department of Yunnan Provincial Department of Transportation, said the route strengthens cross-border transport systems, improves port efficiency, and enhances service standards.
He said the route will help attract investment, boost tourism, and support trade and logistics along the corridor.
Laos and China began discussions on cross-border transport cooperation in May 2025 in Kunming. Officials inspected proposed routes in July, followed by trial operations for the Jinghong–Xiang Kok route in December the same year.
Authorities officially launched the service this month.
Different from Existing Route
The new service marks the second cross-border bus route between the two countries but differs from the earlier Mohan–Boten shuttle.
The Mohan–Boten route connects railway stations over a short 16-kilometer distance and mainly serves passengers using the Laos–China Railway.
Meanwhile, the Xiang Hung–Xiang Kok route operates as a standalone intercity service along a western corridor that previously lacked direct public transport, opening access to areas once limited to traders and local communities.
Boosting Trade and Tourism
Authorities expect the route to support cross-border trade, increase tourist flows, and create new business opportunities.
Luang Namtha, a key gateway for trade and eco-tourism in northern Laos, stands to benefit from increased visitor traffic. The route also strengthens connectivity between Yunnan and Southeast Asia.
Officials said the new service will support sustainable economic development and deepen cooperation between Laos and China.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2026/04/13/laos-china-launch-new-cross-border-bus-route-linking-yunnan-to-luang-namtha/
Laos Orders Travel Companies to Attach Hotel Booking Confirmations of Clients
Travel companies bringing tourists into Laos must now attach confirmed hotel booking documents to their entry paperwork, the Tourism Police Department announced.
According to the 12 May notice, tour operators are required to submit a detailed set of documents to the government before tourists arrive, including passenger name lists, passport details, travel itineraries, arrival and departure checkpoints, intended hotels, daily activity schedules, and tour guide information.
The new rule adds one more step: listing a hotel name in the itinerary is no longer enough. Companies must now attach the actual confirmed booking document for every night of the trip, from the day tourists arrive to the day they leave.
Authorities said the change supports a government drive to move tourist accommodation records into a modern digital system, with the aim of improving safety, security, and the overall visitor experience in the country.
The move comes as Laos pushes to grow its tourism sector. The country welcomed 4.58 million international visitors in 2025 and is now targeting between 5 and 6 million arrivals in 2026.
All previously required documents remain mandatory and no existing paperwork needs to be refiled. However, any company that does not yet collect official hotel confirmation documents as part of its standard booking process must update its procedures immediately. Applications submitted without the new attachments risk delays or outright rejection.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2026/05/13/laos-orders-travel-companies-to-attach-hotel-booking-confirmations-of-clients/
Attapeu to Restore 8,800 Hectares of Forest in 2026 Amid Rising Environmental Pressures
Attapeu has launched an ambitious plan to restore over 8,800 hectares of forest in 2026, aiming to increase forest coverage and address growing environmental challenges.
The initiative will include the restoration of 8,200 hectares of degraded land and the promotion of 630 hectares of new tree plantations. This restoration is part of a larger effort to combat the effects of climate change and environmental degradation, and it is set to align with the upcoming National Arbor Day on 1 June.
The provincial authorities have announced that they will prepare planting sites, seedlings, and restoration areas ahead of the national planting campaign. By 25 May, all planting sites must be identified, with land preparation and fertilizing to be completed by the end of May. In total, more than 250,000 saplings are planned for the year.
The restoration efforts will also include the establishment of 1,000 hectares of plantation areas and village-managed forests in three villages. The provinces are particularly focused on youth participation and climate change awareness, with public awareness campaigns aimed at encouraging both local communities and schools to get involved in the project.
Forest Fires and Rising Environmental Pressure
This major reforestation campaign comes in response to escalating environmental concerns in Laos, particularly the increasing frequency of forest fires and air pollution linked to land burning activities.
Recent data from the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment shows that Laos recorded over 16,000 fire hotspots in the first quarter of 2026 alone, largely due to slash-and-burn farming practices.
This has compounded the country’s environmental challenges, with a particularly destructive forest fire in Phou Phanang National Park that burned over 1,400 hectares in April.
The Attapeu reforestation initiative also aligns with Laos’ national forestry strategy, which aims to increase the country’s forest coverage to 70 percent by 2035. This ambitious goal is in response to the significant loss of Laos’ forests over the past two decades, primarily due to commercial farming, logging, and land conversion.
Laos has lost approximately 58 percent of its intact forest landscapes in the past 20 years, with agriculture and infrastructure development being the primary drivers of deforestation. Reforestation efforts are critical in mitigating the negative impacts of climate change and securing the future of Laos’ natural resources.
Looking Ahead
The Attapeu reforestation campaign also aligns with Laos’ broader environmental goals. As the initiative progresses, it will be closely monitored to track progress toward the 70 percent forest coverage target. Officials also noted that it is essential to maintain newly planted trees and restore degraded forest areas to ensure the long-term health of the country’s forests.
The Attapeu administration’s efforts are part of a nationwide drive to combat climate change, improve forest coverage, and address the environmental challenges facing Laos. By prioritizing forest restoration, Laos aims to protect its natural resources, improve air quality, and contribute to the global fight against climate change.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2026/05/13/attapeu-to-restore-8800-hectares-of-forest-in-2026-amid-rising-environmental-pressures/