Laos welcomed over 1.2 million tourists in the first quarter of 2025, marking a 28 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024, which saw around 1.1 million visitors.
According to the government’s Tourist Arrivals to Laos by Month report, domestic tourism also rose by 4.8 percent, with more than 774,000 local travellers recorded from January to March 2025.
Thailand led the list of international source markets with 364,474 visitors, a 5 percent rise over last year. China followed with 330,531 visitors, reflecting a strong 36 percent increase, while Vietnam contributed 281,911 tourists, up 7 percent year-on-year.
Other ASEAN and Asia-Pacific countries made up 9 percent of total arrivals. South Korea recorded a decline, sending 75,512 visitors, a drop of 29 percent. In contrast, Japan and Australia saw increases, with 10,176 visitors (up 8 percent) and 7,554 visitors (up 19 percent), respectively.
Visitor numbers from Europe grew by 20 percent to reach 104,270. France topped the European list with 22,907 tourists (up 13 percent), followed by Russia with 19,754 (a significant 67 percent rise), and the United Kingdom with 16,360 (up 15 percent).
Tourists from the Americas also rose by 11 percent, totalling 39,772 visitors. The United States led the region, contributing 28,975 travellers, an increase of 14 percent compared to the previous year.
Thailand, Vietnam, China, South Korea, and the United States were the top five sources of visitors. Europe contributed 84,788 tourists, the Americas 35,191, and Africa and the Middle East a combined total of 2,539.
From other regions, Europe contributed 84,788 tourists, the Americas 35,191, and Africa and the Middle East a combined 2,539.
Last year’s tourism success was supported by the “Visit Laos Year 2024” campaign, which showcased the nation’s culture, traditions, and travel experiences, attracting a strong backpacker market.
To build on this momentum, the Lao government plans to expand tourism offerings in 2025 by developing new attractions in Xieng Khouang and Vang Vieng provinces.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/shutterstockRF208712644.jpg6271200Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2025-06-23 00:45:002025-06-13 12:47:29Laos Sees 1.2 Million Tourist Arrivals in Q1 2025, Up 28 Percent from Previous Year
On 3 June, seven international and one local company submitted preliminary qualification documents for the Luang Prabang International Airport Improvement and Development Project, a public-private partnership (PPP) initiative to operate, upgrade, and expand the airport.
The Ministry of Public Works and Transport will evaluate the submissions according to the criteria set out in the Request for Qualification (RFQ). It will soon announce which companies have passed the full qualification assessment.
RFQ is a pre-screening document used to evaluate the capabilities and experience of potential vendors or suppliers before inviting them to submit a full proposal or bid. It emphasizes qualifications and past performance rather than pricing, helping to identify those best suited for the project.
This initiative aims to renovate Laos’s second busiest international airport, enhancing regional connectivity and supporting the growth of the tourism industry both locally and regionally.
The companies submitting documents include China National Aerospace Engineering Technology Corporation (CAIEC) from China, Jalux Inc from Japan, Yunnan Infrastructure Investment Co., Ltd from China, Limak from Turkey, China Road and Bridge Corporation from China, Korea Airports Corporation from South Korea, Muhiban Engineering (M) BHD from Malaysia, and Phongsavanh Group from Laos.
Van Dilaphan, Director General of the Department of Planning and Finance at the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, said the ministry will carefully review all pre-qualification documents and then announce the qualified bidders who will proceed to the next stage, submitting detailed technical and financial proposals.
She emphasized that this step brings the project closer to transforming Luang Prabang International Airport into a modern gateway that will drive national infrastructure development and boost the country’s tourism sector.
The submission of preliminary qualification documents is the second phase following the Expression of Interest (EOI) stage. The ministry plans to invite qualified companies to submit their full proposals by the end of June 2025, with the open competitive bidding process expected to be completed by the end of the year.
The project is a government priority focused on upgrading airport operations to foster tourism growth and improve regional connectivity in Laos and the broader region.
Luang Prabang International Airport serves as the main gateway to the city of Luang Prabang in northern Laos.
The airport underwent major upgrades in 2013 with the opening of a new terminal to accommodate growing tourism and rising international traffic. Located just 4 kilometers from the city center, it remains easily accessible for travelers.
It features a single asphalt runway and a terminal that handles both domestic and international flights. With a capacity of around 1.5 million passengers per year, the airport offers essential amenities such as restaurants, shops, and visa-on-arrival services.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Luang-Prabang-International-Airport-.jpg6271200Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2025-06-20 00:40:002025-06-13 12:42:43Eight Companies Vie to Renovate Luang Prabang International Airport
LOCA, a homegrown ride-hailing startup from Laos, is raising the bar for safety, sustainability, and digital convenience in the country’s transport sector.
Built with a strong focus on passenger protection, LOCA ensures that every driver on the platform passes a mandatory in-person exam and training session, along with a comprehensive background check.
To further protect its users, LOCA includes insurance coverage for every ride, offering up to LAK 500 million (around USD 53,000) in case of any unforeseen accidents, covering both customers and drivers.
Founded in 2018, LOCA has quickly grown to become a trusted mobility platform, setting itself apart through a strict driver onboard process, compliance, innovation, and a deep commitment to user safety and service quality.
With a growing reputation among international visitors, LOCA has become the most trusted transportation platform for more than 400,000 tourists traveling in Laos. One of the key reasons for this trust is the company’s 24/7 human call center, providing real-time support and peace of mind to riders.
Additionally, LOCA remains the only ride-hailing service in the market that allows direct credit card payments for bookings, eliminating the need for cash and creating a smooth, hassle-free travel experience.
According to LOCA CEO Souliyo Vongdala, the company places a strong priority on safety and tax compliance, ensuring that all stakeholders—from drivers to government agencies—can benefit from the platform’s growth.
To promote transparency, LOCA clearly states how each trip supports national development: drivers on the platform pay a 5 percent income tax, while the company pays 10 percent value-added tax (VAT) and 20 percent profit tax. This ensures that every ride not only supports the driver and company but also contributes to public revenue and national infrastructure.
Beyond safety and compliance, LOCA is leading the way in the country’s electric vehicle transition. The company currently has over 1,000 active drivers, with approximately 90% of them operating fully electric vehicles. This shift aligns with LOCA’s broader commitment to environmental responsibility and reducing the nation’s reliance on fossil fuels.
LOCA’s efforts are further backed by heavy investment in EV infrastructure. As of today, LOCA has built and operates 47 fast-charging stations across Laos, making it the country’s largest EV charging network. These stations are not limited to Vientiane Capital but extend nationwide, supporting the growing number of EV drivers and helping pave the way toward a cleaner, greener Laos.
Every ride with LOCA is more than just a trip—it’s a contribution to safer transport, fair economic participation, and the national transition toward green mobility. By choosing LOCA, customers are directly supporting local drivers, a responsible Lao company, and the government through tax contributions, while also playing an active role in building a more sustainable future for Laos.
Laos Sees 1.2 Million Tourist Arrivals in Q1 2025, Up 28 Percent from Previous Year
Laos welcomed over 1.2 million tourists in the first quarter of 2025, marking a 28 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024, which saw around 1.1 million visitors.
According to the government’s Tourist Arrivals to Laos by Month report, domestic tourism also rose by 4.8 percent, with more than 774,000 local travellers recorded from January to March 2025.
Thailand led the list of international source markets with 364,474 visitors, a 5 percent rise over last year. China followed with 330,531 visitors, reflecting a strong 36 percent increase, while Vietnam contributed 281,911 tourists, up 7 percent year-on-year.
Other ASEAN and Asia-Pacific countries made up 9 percent of total arrivals. South Korea recorded a decline, sending 75,512 visitors, a drop of 29 percent. In contrast, Japan and Australia saw increases, with 10,176 visitors (up 8 percent) and 7,554 visitors (up 19 percent), respectively.
Visitor numbers from Europe grew by 20 percent to reach 104,270. France topped the European list with 22,907 tourists (up 13 percent), followed by Russia with 19,754 (a significant 67 percent rise), and the United Kingdom with 16,360 (up 15 percent).
Tourists from the Americas also rose by 11 percent, totalling 39,772 visitors. The United States led the region, contributing 28,975 travellers, an increase of 14 percent compared to the previous year.
In comparison, Laos saw 1,131,902 international arrivals during the first quarter of 2024.
Thailand, Vietnam, China, South Korea, and the United States were the top five sources of visitors. Europe contributed 84,788 tourists, the Americas 35,191, and Africa and the Middle East a combined total of 2,539.
From other regions, Europe contributed 84,788 tourists, the Americas 35,191, and Africa and the Middle East a combined 2,539.
Last year’s tourism success was supported by the “Visit Laos Year 2024” campaign, which showcased the nation’s culture, traditions, and travel experiences, attracting a strong backpacker market.
To build on this momentum, the Lao government plans to expand tourism offerings in 2025 by developing new attractions in Xieng Khouang and Vang Vieng provinces.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/06/11/laos-sees-1-2-million-tourist-arrivals-in-q1-2025-up-28-percent-from-previous-year/
Eight Companies Vie to Renovate Luang Prabang International Airport
On 3 June, seven international and one local company submitted preliminary qualification documents for the Luang Prabang International Airport Improvement and Development Project, a public-private partnership (PPP) initiative to operate, upgrade, and expand the airport.
The Ministry of Public Works and Transport will evaluate the submissions according to the criteria set out in the Request for Qualification (RFQ). It will soon announce which companies have passed the full qualification assessment.
RFQ is a pre-screening document used to evaluate the capabilities and experience of potential vendors or suppliers before inviting them to submit a full proposal or bid. It emphasizes qualifications and past performance rather than pricing, helping to identify those best suited for the project.
This initiative aims to renovate Laos’s second busiest international airport, enhancing regional connectivity and supporting the growth of the tourism industry both locally and regionally.
The companies submitting documents include China National Aerospace Engineering Technology Corporation (CAIEC) from China, Jalux Inc from Japan, Yunnan Infrastructure Investment Co., Ltd from China, Limak from Turkey, China Road and Bridge Corporation from China, Korea Airports Corporation from South Korea, Muhiban Engineering (M) BHD from Malaysia, and Phongsavanh Group from Laos.
Van Dilaphan, Director General of the Department of Planning and Finance at the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, said the ministry will carefully review all pre-qualification documents and then announce the qualified bidders who will proceed to the next stage, submitting detailed technical and financial proposals.
She emphasized that this step brings the project closer to transforming Luang Prabang International Airport into a modern gateway that will drive national infrastructure development and boost the country’s tourism sector.
The submission of preliminary qualification documents is the second phase following the Expression of Interest (EOI) stage. The ministry plans to invite qualified companies to submit their full proposals by the end of June 2025, with the open competitive bidding process expected to be completed by the end of the year.
The project is a government priority focused on upgrading airport operations to foster tourism growth and improve regional connectivity in Laos and the broader region.
Luang Prabang International Airport serves as the main gateway to the city of Luang Prabang in northern Laos.
The airport underwent major upgrades in 2013 with the opening of a new terminal to accommodate growing tourism and rising international traffic. Located just 4 kilometers from the city center, it remains easily accessible for travelers.
It features a single asphalt runway and a terminal that handles both domestic and international flights. With a capacity of around 1.5 million passengers per year, the airport offers essential amenities such as restaurants, shops, and visa-on-arrival services.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/06/07/eight-companies-vie-to-renovate-luang-prabang-international-airport/
LOCA Drives Change: Ride with Safety, Sustainability, and Smart Mobility
LOCA, a homegrown ride-hailing startup from Laos, is raising the bar for safety, sustainability, and digital convenience in the country’s transport sector.
Built with a strong focus on passenger protection, LOCA ensures that every driver on the platform passes a mandatory in-person exam and training session, along with a comprehensive background check.
To further protect its users, LOCA includes insurance coverage for every ride, offering up to LAK 500 million (around USD 53,000) in case of any unforeseen accidents, covering both customers and drivers.
Founded in 2018, LOCA has quickly grown to become a trusted mobility platform, setting itself apart through a strict driver onboard process, compliance, innovation, and a deep commitment to user safety and service quality.
With a growing reputation among international visitors, LOCA has become the most trusted transportation platform for more than 400,000 tourists traveling in Laos. One of the key reasons for this trust is the company’s 24/7 human call center, providing real-time support and peace of mind to riders.
Additionally, LOCA remains the only ride-hailing service in the market that allows direct credit card payments for bookings, eliminating the need for cash and creating a smooth, hassle-free travel experience.
According to LOCA CEO Souliyo Vongdala, the company places a strong priority on safety and tax compliance, ensuring that all stakeholders—from drivers to government agencies—can benefit from the platform’s growth.
To promote transparency, LOCA clearly states how each trip supports national development: drivers on the platform pay a 5 percent income tax, while the company pays 10 percent value-added tax (VAT) and 20 percent profit tax. This ensures that every ride not only supports the driver and company but also contributes to public revenue and national infrastructure.
Beyond safety and compliance, LOCA is leading the way in the country’s electric vehicle transition. The company currently has over 1,000 active drivers, with approximately 90% of them operating fully electric vehicles. This shift aligns with LOCA’s broader commitment to environmental responsibility and reducing the nation’s reliance on fossil fuels.
LOCA’s efforts are further backed by heavy investment in EV infrastructure. As of today, LOCA has built and operates 47 fast-charging stations across Laos, making it the country’s largest EV charging network. These stations are not limited to Vientiane Capital but extend nationwide, supporting the growing number of EV drivers and helping pave the way toward a cleaner, greener Laos.
Every ride with LOCA is more than just a trip—it’s a contribution to safer transport, fair economic participation, and the national transition toward green mobility. By choosing LOCA, customers are directly supporting local drivers, a responsible Lao company, and the government through tax contributions, while also playing an active role in building a more sustainable future for Laos.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/06/06/loca-drives-change-ride-with-safety-sustainability-and-smart-mobility/