LOCA, the Lao-grown ride-hailing and electric mobility startup, has announced the extension of its current fundraising round through the issuance of a USD 2.5 million Green Bond.
This new funding is expected to accelerate LOCA’s vision to transform urban transportation in Laos through the adoption of electric mobility and sustainable infrastructure.
The Green Bond issuance and sale will be facilitated by the three securities companies including BCEL-KT Securities Company Limited, LDB Securities Sole Company Limited and Lao-China Securities Public Company.
Proceeds from the Green Bond will be used to expand LOCA’s nationwide EV charging infrastructure, including an innovative program to revive defunct gas stations into EV-friendly charging and community hubs
In addition, part of the funding will go toward the rapid expansion of LOCA MINI, an affordable, 100 percent electric taxi fleet aimed at delivering safe, low-cost, and efficient on-demand transportation for city dwellers.
Soulisak Thamnuvong, Deputy Governor of the Bank of Laos said that this represents a significant milestone for the Lao capital market, particularly the issuance of green bonds.
He emphasized that it plays a vital role in fundraising for various entities and provides diverse investment opportunities linked to environmental business practices. This development is important for the country’s economic growth and for reducing emissions.
“We’ve already secured a committed investment in our earlier round, but we’re extending this round to push our 2035 vision forward—now targeting success by 2030,” said Souliyo Vongdala, Co-Founder and CEO of LOCA.
“There isn’t yet a serious player who truly believes EV vision for Laos, so we have no choice but to move forward and commit ourselves to pioneering this transition. We’ve done it before with ride-hailing—helping grow an entire market—and we’re ready to do it again for electric mobility. Our hope is that by leading the way, others will follow, creating a thriving industry and more opportunities for the people of Laos”
Since its inception in 2018, LOCA has grown into the first and largest ride-hailing platform in Laos, with over 1,000 active drivers, 90 percent of whom now operate EVs. Originally aiming to become a 100 percent EV fleet by 2030, LOCA is now on track to reach that goal five years early.
“LOCA is not only growing rapidly but doing so profitably and responsibly,” said Phonepasong Mixab, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of LOCA.
“With a strong team, innovative technology, and a proven business model, we’re confident that this round will bring excellent returns to investors—while also creating real, lasting impact for the Lao people.”
The Lao EV market has seen exponential growth, with four-wheel BEV registrations rising from 1,414 in 2022 to over 5,100 in 2024, and projections showing 8,000+ by 2025 and 15,000 per year by 2030. LOCA’s EV charging infrastructure has already served more than 8,000 unique vehicles, effectively supporting nearly 100 percent of Laos’ BEV drivers, both taxi operators and private owners.
EV drivers in Laos are now saving over 70 percent in fuel costs compared to gasoline, making the switch not only environmentally responsible but also economically smart. Combined with falling EV prices, the adoption rate is only expected to accelerate.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/LOCA-Launches-Green-Bond-to-Boost-EV-Use-in-Laos.jpg6271200Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2025-06-24 00:48:002025-06-13 12:50:17LOCA Launches Green Bond to Boost EV Use in Laos
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 Launches Green Bond to Boost EV Use in Laos
LOCA, the Lao-grown ride-hailing and electric mobility startup, has announced the extension of its current fundraising round through the issuance of a USD 2.5 million Green Bond.
This new funding is expected to accelerate LOCA’s vision to transform urban transportation in Laos through the adoption of electric mobility and sustainable infrastructure.
The Green Bond issuance and sale will be facilitated by the three securities companies including BCEL-KT Securities Company Limited, LDB Securities Sole Company Limited and Lao-China Securities Public Company.
Proceeds from the Green Bond will be used to expand LOCA’s nationwide EV charging infrastructure, including an innovative program to revive defunct gas stations into EV-friendly charging and community hubs
In addition, part of the funding will go toward the rapid expansion of LOCA MINI, an affordable, 100 percent electric taxi fleet aimed at delivering safe, low-cost, and efficient on-demand transportation for city dwellers.
Soulisak Thamnuvong, Deputy Governor of the Bank of Laos said that this represents a significant milestone for the Lao capital market, particularly the issuance of green bonds.
He emphasized that it plays a vital role in fundraising for various entities and provides diverse investment opportunities linked to environmental business practices. This development is important for the country’s economic growth and for reducing emissions.
“We’ve already secured a committed investment in our earlier round, but we’re extending this round to push our 2035 vision forward—now targeting success by 2030,” said Souliyo Vongdala, Co-Founder and CEO of LOCA.
“There isn’t yet a serious player who truly believes EV vision for Laos, so we have no choice but to move forward and commit ourselves to pioneering this transition. We’ve done it before with ride-hailing—helping grow an entire market—and we’re ready to do it again for electric mobility. Our hope is that by leading the way, others will follow, creating a thriving industry and more opportunities for the people of Laos”
Since its inception in 2018, LOCA has grown into the first and largest ride-hailing platform in Laos, with over 1,000 active drivers, 90 percent of whom now operate EVs. Originally aiming to become a 100 percent EV fleet by 2030, LOCA is now on track to reach that goal five years early.
“LOCA is not only growing rapidly but doing so profitably and responsibly,” said Phonepasong Mixab, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of LOCA.
“With a strong team, innovative technology, and a proven business model, we’re confident that this round will bring excellent returns to investors—while also creating real, lasting impact for the Lao people.”
The Lao EV market has seen exponential growth, with four-wheel BEV registrations rising from 1,414 in 2022 to over 5,100 in 2024, and projections showing 8,000+ by 2025 and 15,000 per year by 2030. LOCA’s EV charging infrastructure has already served more than 8,000 unique vehicles, effectively supporting nearly 100 percent of Laos’ BEV drivers, both taxi operators and private owners.
EV drivers in Laos are now saving over 70 percent in fuel costs compared to gasoline, making the switch not only environmentally responsible but also economically smart. Combined with falling EV prices, the adoption rate is only expected to accelerate.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/06/12/loca-launches-green-bond-to-boost-ev-use-in-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/