On 14 August, Laos unveiled a new job search website, developed by the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare (MOLSW) with support from the ILO-China Partnership Program. The initiative, first launched in 2023, is part of the “Project to Strengthen Skills Development in Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar through South-South and Tripartite Cooperation,” and aims to tackle ongoing labor market issues.
Laos has faced economic and societal challenges due to a low minimum wage, which has not kept pace with inflation or the depreciating kip. Despite recent wage adjustments, many businesses struggle to meet wage demands, leading to labor shortages and a trend of workers seeking opportunities abroad.
To address these challenges, MOLSW, in collaboration with an enterprise partner, launched the website to improve labor market efficiency. The site, managed by the Department of Employment, provides comprehensive information on job regulations, services, legislation, and freelance opportunities, making it a valuable resource for job seekers.
The new website launch follows a job festival held in Vientiane on 22 March, where 1,800 positions across 56 companies were advertised, highlighting the country’s struggle with workforce retention. The new website is designed to enhance job accessibility, providing tools and resources for users in both central and local areas.
By improving job placement and offering access to opportunities domestically and internationally—particularly in countries like Thailand, South Korea, and Japan—the website is expected to boost employment rates and support economic growth.
On 13 August, Laos celebrated the 74th Anniversary of Mass Media and Publishing Day with a series of discussions aimed at examining the evolving role of media in the country. The events, which included meetings and seminars, addressed key issues such as combating fake news, the impact of social media, and the leveraging of artificial intelligence in the modern newsroom.
In preparation for the event, the Ministry of Culture, Information, and Tourism (MCIT) along with the Lao Journalists Association hosted a seminar on 8 August focused on combating misinformation on social media, with aims to cultivate a more informed press corps capable of effectively countering fake news. The goal was to develop a more informed press corps capable of effectively countering fake news. Deputy Minister Phosy Keomanivong, who attended the seminar, emphasized the need for better public-private sector cooperation and closer ties with international media to attract investment and maintain stability in the media sector.
Prior to this seminar, the MCIT organized another forum on 2 August, hosted by the LJA and MCIT with support from the European Union and the International Care Organization, discussions included the role of artificial intelligence in journalism, including AI’s potential in news verification, translation, and content creation, aiming to equip journalists with necessary skills and strategies for digital monetization
Savankhone Razmountry, President of the Lao Journalists’ Association (LJA), speaks at the media seminar organized by MICT
Speaking at the forum was Savankhone Razmountry, President of the Lao Journalists’ Association (LJA), who acknowledged the dual nature of social media. While it enhances the speed of information dissemination, it also brings risks related to the spread of misinformation.
The LJA president urged Lao journalists to stay updated with modern media systems, verify sources, and ensure alignment with government interests.
Speakers at the seminar
Other speakers featured Aditta Kittikhoun, Senior Partner at RDK Group, who highlighted the critical need to grasp Facebook’s algorithms, given the platform’s dominant role in distributing news in Laos. He pointed out that although Lao media uses Facebook for distribution, the platform also presents significant competition.
“If you want to use AI tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, or Claude effectively, first understand the primary AI impacting you daily—Facebook’s evolving algorithms. For media to embrace digitalization, they must think like Facebook, aligning with its machine learning logic that captures attention through user data,” he said. “Though many see Facebook as a tech company, it’s more accurately Laos’s largest media company. While Lao media relies on Facebook for distribution, it’s also their biggest competitor.”
Adding depth to Aditta’s emphasis on AI, Thanousone Phonamart, President of the Lao ICT Association, explored the foundational technologies behind AI and their applications on an international scale. Bounheng Southichack, Managing Director of Lao Youth Radio, provided insights into how various AI tools are being integrated into different aspects of newsroom operations, enhancing efficiency and content creation. Minaxay Philavong, Director General of the Lao National Internet Center, discussed the legal frameworks surrounding fake news, emphasizing the challenges and responsibilities that come with regulating information in the digital age.
Somsavath Phongsa, Director General of the Mass Media Department at the Ministry, speaks on stage
Somsavath Phongsa, Director General of the Mass Media Department at the MTCI, noted the significant impact of social media on information dissemination, leading to misinformation and public confusion. He emphasized the need for the media to address these challenges by improving practices and educating the public.
The mass media director also stated that many media professionals in Laos are still grappling with challenges such as the effective use of digital tools and understanding target audiences. He suggested improving human resources to meet the demands of the digital era and highlighted the advantages of digital media, including its speed and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional media.
The forum concluded with a call for media professionals to uphold high standards, continually expand their skills, and adhere to media laws and regulations.
Media and Publishing Day is a significant occasion for the media, publishing, and distribution sectors, highlighting their essential contributions to the nation’s progress. Throughout the journey toward independence and the development of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party has recognized the crucial role of information in driving social and economic advancement. In this context, media, publishing, and distribution—particularly through the Party’s newspaper and various forms of print and digital media—have played a vital role in promoting national unity and supporting the country’s development goals.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Laos-Celebrates-74th-Mass-Media-and-Publishing-Day-with-Focus-on-Media-Transformation.jpg6271200Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2024-09-09 08:45:352024-09-03 08:46:57Laos Marks 74th Mass Media Day with Focus on Digital Media Challenges, AI Integration
To enhance road safety and streamline driver’s license preparation, the Lao government has unveiled the DoT Smart App, an innovative mobile application designed to transform the driving test process across the country.
This initiative, launched under the theme “Improve the Driver’s License System in Laos,” is a collaborative effort funded by the United Nations Road Safety Fund (UNRSF) and supported by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) and the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP).
The project, which commenced in January 2022 and ended in June this year, has been approved by Laos’ Ministry of Public Works and Transport through a formal agreement with UNRSF.
The DoT Smart App is poised to revolutionize how driving test candidates prepare for their exams. The app offers a host of features designed to assist users in their preparation, including access to traffic knowledge online, practice with simulated tests, the ability to book test dates, and receive instant results. Additionally, the app will send notifications for driver’s license expiration, ensuring that users remain compliant with driving regulations.
To ensure the app’s effectiveness, the ministry of transport has implemented an E-driving system to assess the accuracy and efficiency of practical driving tests.
Savannakhet Province has been selected as the pilot area for this new system, providing valuable insights into its performance before a broader rollout.
The introduction of the DoT Smart App is expected to ease the process of obtaining a driver’s license, making it more accessible and efficient. By providing comprehensive resources and practical tools, the app aims to not only enhance individual preparation but also contribute to broader traffic safety goals, reducing accidents and fatalities on Lao roads.
As the pilot program in Savannakhet unfolds, the Lao government anticipates a gradual expansion of the app’s use, with the ultimate goal of widespread adoption across the country.
To advance regional clean energy collaboration, Laos and CGI Energy Technology Co., Ltd. have signed an agreement to launch Phase II of the Northern Clean Energy Connection Project.
The ceremony, held in Vientiane on 8 August aimed to highlight both parties’ commitment to the “One Belt, One Road” initiative and to enhance their strategic energy partnership.
Laos’ Deputy Prime Minister Saleumxay Kommasith and the Chinese Ambassador to Laos, Fang Hong, witnessed the signing.
The agreement marks a significant step in expanding Laos’ clean energy infrastructure, with a focus on integrating wind, solar, and water storage energy solutions across three northern provinces: Oudomxay, Phongsaly, and Luang Namtha.
Phase II builds on the initial phase of the project, which saw the deployment of solar energy capacity. Under the new agreement, CGI Energy will advance solar energy development with a target of 580 MW in Luang Namtha and 420 MW in Oudomxay.
Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Energy and Mine, Thongphat Inthavong, highlighted the project’s importance in strengthening the relationship between northern Laos and southern China. He further stressed the role of the initiative in promoting sustainable, green energy solutions and reducing carbon emissions in the region.
Phase II is set to strengthen the Laos-China energy partnership and advance regional clean energy efforts.
Laos’ Tug-of-War Federation is set to revive the sport under new leadership, with plans to elevate it nationally and increase its regional presence in the coming year.
At a press conference on 6 August, the federation unveiled its new management team, led by former Minister to the Prime Minister’s Office, Alounkeo Kittikhoun, with backing from the Ministry of Education and Sports.
The newly appointed team will oversee key aspects of the sport, including fundraising, organizing competitions, marketing, and building international relations. Alounkeo also mentioned plans to develop a comprehensive manual on tug-of-war rules and competition procedures. This guide will be distributed in schools to promote the sport in schools, to increase student participation.
The immediate priority for the team is to prepare a group of strong competitors for a tug-of-war contest in Thailand next month. Additionally, they plan to organize a national-level tug-of-war event in Laos later this year.
Deputy Minister of Education and Sports Kingmano Phommahaxay expressed confidence in the new leadership. He emphasized the importance of working with international and regional organizations to boost the sport’s popularity.
Looking ahead, the federation aims to include tug-of-war in the National Games in Vientiane Capital in 2025 and participate in the Southeast Asia Games hosted by Thailand.
Tug-of-war was once part of the Olympic Games but has since been removed. Established in 2016, the Lao Tug-of-War Federation has seen previous success in regional competitions, including a third-place finish at the ASEAN Tug-of-War Championship in Pattaya, Thailand.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Laos-to-Establish-Tug-of-War-as-National-Sport-Under-New-Leadership.jpg6271200Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2024-09-04 05:08:002024-08-09 17:10:21Laos to Establish Tug-of-War as National Sport Under New Leadership
Laos has seen a surge in tourism during the first six months of Visit Laos Year 2024, with over 2.1 million tourists visiting the country, marking a 26 percent increase in visitors compared to the same period in 2023.
The latest figures from the Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism (MICT) show the primary source markets for Lao tourism remain consistent with previous years.
Thailand leads the way, contributing 680,153 visitors, or 32.25 percent of the total. Vietnam follows with 512,042 visitors, making up 24.28 percent, and China is close behind with 510,083 tourists, accounting for 24.18 percent of all arrivals. South Korea also made a significant contribution, with 134,246 visitors representing 6.36 percent of the total. These four countries together comprise an overwhelming 87 percent of all tourists to Laos.
On the Western front, the United States sent 37,752 tourists, accounting for 1.79 percent of the total, while France contributed 28,814 tourists (1.37 percent), and the United Kingdom sent 24,430 visitors (1.11 percent).
Other notable sources include Russia, Japan, Germany, Cambodia, and Australia, each contributing less than 1 percent of the total. Collectively, these eight nationalities make up just 7.53 percent of all tourist arrivals.
To support continued growth in tourism for the second half of the year, MICT organized an intensive two-month training course, from 6 May to 19 July, to raise the standards of Lao tour guides to meet ASEAN benchmarks. The course combined theoretical and practical sessions to enhance their qualifications, insights, and skills, with a focus on multilingualism and professionalism to better serve tourists.
In July, the UK-based travel guide website Lonely Planet named Luang Prabang Province as one of the seven best places to visit in Southeast Asia for 2024. The recognition came due to the city’s dedication to preserving its ancient temples and spiritual heritage.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Laos-Welcome-Over-2-Million-Visitors-in-First-Half-of-2024.jpg6271200Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2024-09-03 05:04:002024-08-09 17:07:51Laos Welcomes Over 2 Million Visitors in First Half of 2024
To boost tourism, Savannakhet Province’s Department of Information, Culture, and Tourism (DICT) has partnered with APA Incorporate, a multidisciplinary architectural and engineering consultancy firm in Laos, to launch a major museum survey and design project to revitalize the provincial museum.
This was formalized during a signing ceremony on 1 August at the DICT office in Savannakhet Province. Mongkhounephet Vongpachan, Deputy Head of the DICT of Savannakhet, signed the agreement with Vongxay Bounmany, Director of APA Incorporate, expanding the current museum renovation project, which originally focused only on the main building.
The survey and design project aims to establish a large, fully-equipped museum that incorporates the surrounding areas of the current museum. The new museum is expected to become a major tourist attraction, highlighting the beauty and historical significance of the colonial-era architecture in Savannakhet Province.
According to Mongkounephet, the project will proceed in two distinct phases. The first phase, estimated to take between 8 to 12 months, will involve a detailed survey and design process. This phase will culminate in the selection of a construction company. The second phase, which is expected to last 24 months, will oversee and inspect the construction process, with a total budget of USD 215,000 allocated to the entire project.
This collaboration is anticipated to result in a museum that not only preserves the cultural heritage of the region but also boosts tourism in the old town area of Savannakhet Province.
The Savannakhet Museum currently offers visitors a rich experience through its diverse collection of indigenous artifacts, including ancient finds, traditional crafts, and religious items. It provides insights into the area’s historical struggles and triumphs, offering a unique glimpse into Laos’ cultural heritage.
Beyond the museum, Savannakhet is known for its unique travel experiences, including ancient temples, home staying with host families to learn more about local culture and history, as well as trekking through the district’s scenic outskirts.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Savannakhet-Museum-to-Undergo-Major-Renovation.jpg6271200Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2024-09-02 05:00:002024-08-09 17:04:03Savannakhet Museum to Undergo Major Renovation
Laos and Vietnam have formalized agreements to enhance disaster management capabilities by establishing data and communication centers.
This initiative was solidified during a meeting on 5 August between the Lao Minister of Technology and Communications (MTC) and the Vietnamese Academy of Science and Technology (VAST).
During the meeting, both sides reviewed proposals for setting up a data and communication center aimed at monitoring natural disasters, particularly earthquakes, and establishing a national center for data storage and cloud computing in Laos.
To fast-track these initiatives, a joint laboratory specializing in earthquake data and communication has been set up by the Institute of Geophysics under VAST and the Research Institute for Smart Technology (ARIST) under MTC. VAST has also provided essential equipment and training to 15 ARIST officers in data analysis.
Additionally, the two agencies have pledged to continue their cooperation in human resource development, capacity building in technology and innovation, and sharing expertise in digital technology.
According to Vietnamese media, this collaboration is intended to strengthen the technological capabilities of both nations, ensuring they are better prepared to manage and mitigate the effects of natural disasters.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/vn-LA.jpg6271200Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2024-08-31 04:57:002024-08-09 17:00:10Laos, Vietnam to Enhance Disaster Preparedness with Digital Innovation
On 5 August, the Lao-China Railway awarded driver certificates to 14 Lao nationals who successfully completed a self-driven test. This certification ceremony marks the first time Lao citizens have received this recognition.
The journey to certification began in June 2022, with an initial cohort of 66 participants undergoing extensive theoretical and practical training to become certified railway staff.
By late 2023, a selection process narrowed the group to 30 drivers, who were tasked with operating trains over a combined distance exceeding 100,000 kilometers.
Ultimately, only 14 drivers demonstrated exceptional performance, earning them the official certificates jointly issued by the Lao-China Railway and the Ministry of Public Works and Transport.
To celebrate the occasion, Deputy Minister of Public Works and Transport, Xaysongkham Manothin, praised the newly certified drivers, noting that their achievement reflects the successful partnership between Laos and China in training skilled railway professionals.
Looking ahead, Liu Hong, Director General of the Laos-China Railway, outlined plans to develop more Lao experts in railway operations, enhance the railway system’s quality, and improve people’s lives.
To do so, Liu Hong explained that the railway will hold more workshops and training programs for Lao workers, focusing on key job roles, developing specialized skills, and refining the training system to create the first generation of Lao executives and technicians in railway operations.
Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone has announced plans to establish a new digital national database for citizen registration and identity card issuance, to enhance national security, governance, and administrative efficiency by streamlining the registration process.
During a meeting on 2 August, PM Sonexay emphasized the importance of the civil registration process and urged relevant authorities to take full responsibility for its implementation.
Under the PM’s instruction, The Ministry of Home Affairs, in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Security, must ensure that the digitization of citizenship records is legally compliant and technically robust.
The Ministry of Public Security has been directed to refine relevant legislation, train personnel, develop software, and fully prepare for the digitalized registration of citizens. The ministry will also lead the efforts to build the necessary infrastructure, support the sectors involved at both central and provincial levels, and closely monitor the progress.
Furthermore, PM Sonexay instructed the authorities to write reports, collect statistics, and record the progress in citizen registration on a daily, weekly, monthly, semi-annual, and annual basis. This data will be compiled and reported to the government by the Ministry of Public Security.
Both ministries are also responsible for overseeing the registration of Lao citizens, foreigners, and stateless individuals authorized to reside in Laos, with strict measures to be enforced against those who do not comply with the registration process.
According to the prime minister, the project serves as a top government priority, highlighting the necessity for ongoing monitoring, evaluation, and reporting to ensure its success.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Laos-to-Digitize-Citizenship-Records-Prime-Minister-Says.jpg6271200Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2024-08-29 04:51:002024-08-09 16:53:49Laos to Digitize Citizenship Records, Prime Minister Says
