Lao handicrafts shone brightly on the global stage, as a unique embroidery technique by a young Lao artisan won the Youngest Artisan award at this year’s International Festival of Handicrafts in Kokand, Uzbekistan.
The festival, held from 19 to 21 September, brought together 250 international participants from over 70 countries. Its aim was to gather talented craftspeople to showcase their national patterns and applied arts.
One Lao artisan stood out for his remarkable contribution, and his deep-rooted connection to his heritage.
Khounphithack Latesavat, a 29-year-old business owner of Muenna Lao Silk in Luang Prabang, has a passion for incorporating Lao traditions into clothing, including the Sinh (traditional Lao skirt), shirts, and Lao shoulder scarf.
This was Khounphithack’s second attempt at the competition, having previously won second runner-up in 2022. But this time, he came prepared, both creatively and mentally, determined to elevate his work to a new level.
“I wanted to finish what I’ve started, and I’ve learned what my mistakes are, so I fixed them to win the competition this time,” he said.
Crafting Fashion from Luang Prabang’s Spirit
At the heart of Khounphithack’s designs lies his hometown: Luang Prabang.
For the fashion show round, he chose to tell a story of Laos through landmarks that represent its soul.
The first set, called “15 Naga Families”, was inspired by the Naga figures at the town’s Royal Palace, which are a symbol of faith and belief in the spiritual animal that protects the people and the city from harm.
The set was dyed with a natural pigment called klang, which gives it a deep red shade similar to the Royal Palace logo and the symbols of past Lao kings. It was then decorated with a special gold-thread embroidery technique called ding kham, where silver and gold threads are woven together to create intricate patterns.
The second set, “Kinnary-Inspired Traditional Silk Shirt,” was inspired by the Kinnary, a graceful, bird-like female figure from Lao folklore often seen on the walls of Wat Xieng Thong. It was made from high-quality handwoven silk and adorned with detailed gold and silver embroidery, along with diamonds and gemstones.
The sleeves followed the traditional Luang Prabang style, keeping the shirt authentic while giving it a unique and refined appearance.
The last set, “12 Zodiacs,” was inspired by the animals painted on the walls of temples in Luang Prabang. For this design, Khounphithack and his team wove the fabric in a sunflower pattern.
It features 12 colored fabrics woven into the base of the cloth, with each of the 12 zodiac animals embroidered using traditional techniques. Gold and silver threads, along with patterns like square keys and long locks, created a sharp and elegant depiction of each zodiac animal.
“Every minute is priceless on the stage, so I brought these three historic and significant places as a small advertisement about Laos as it is a country with beauty and vulnerability to visit,” Khounphithack said.
Preparation and Passion Elevate Lao Silk Globally
The path to success for the one and only representative from the “Land of a Million Elephants” was not easy. He described the moment before showcasing his handicrafts to the foreign audience:
“It was very tough. I had to prepare so many things, like designing patterns, preparing clothes for the fashion show, shooting a lookbook, and presenting my work in English,” he emphasized.
Despite the hard work, he never forgot the reason he started this journey: to support local products and promote tourism in a way that preserves their uniqueness and ensures they remain sustainable over time.
As the competition was very “intense”, Khounphithack started thinking about the best technique he could use for his work. He came up with a 3D technique that could bring a lively dimension to the patterns. He also blended ancient Lao embroidery with advanced European techniques.
Khounphithack ultimately believed that understanding the judges’ tastes was key to winning the competition.
By using soft-toned colors, he aimed to make the patterns more accessible, helping the judges more easily grasp the essence of Lao culture and appreciate the fabric’s texture.
“The pattern, I tried to adapt it in an international way. It might look simple and common in Laos, but for foreigners, I made it eye-catching for them,” he said.
“Lao silk handicraft reflects not only a tradition but also how people live, how they dress, and how they practice their way of life. It reflects the kind of living that Lao people value and their prosperity in art and culture.”
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/09/24/young-luang-prabang-artisan-wins-global-award-for-lao-embroidery/
New Eco-Tourism Project Aims to Protect Wildlife, Boost Jobs in Luang Namtha
Luang Namtha Province is set to transform Xang Boten village into a conservation-focused tourist destination through the newly launched Xang Boten Tourism Project, a joint initiative between the Lao government and a Chinese company.
Key features of the project include an elephant care and rehabilitation center, educational facilities, and a variety of eco-friendly accommodations such as resorts, homestays, and campsites. Visitors will also be able to enjoy adventure activities like forest treks, tree houses, and canopy bridges, as well as explore local craft shops, restaurants, and a zoo.
Designed to offer a wide range of experiences, the initiative places a strong emphasis on environmental protection and community involvement. It builds on Luang Namtha’s existing tourism strengths, with the goal of ensuring that the benefits of tourism are shared equitably with local communities.
By focusing on sustainable and immersive experiences, the province aims to position itself as a premier destination for conservation tourism.
The project is not only expected to create jobs and boost the local economy, but also supports Luang Namtha’s long-term vision of balancing natural resource conservation with community well-being.
The partnership agreement was officially signed on 19 September by representatives from the Governor’s Office of Luang Namtha, the Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism, and the Chinese firm involved in the project.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/09/25/new-eco-tourism-project-aims-to-protect-wildlife-boost-jobs-in-luang-namtha/
Young Luang Prabang Artisan Wins Global Award for Lao Embroidery
Lao handicrafts shone brightly on the global stage, as a unique embroidery technique by a young Lao artisan won the Youngest Artisan award at this year’s International Festival of Handicrafts in Kokand, Uzbekistan.
The festival, held from 19 to 21 September, brought together 250 international participants from over 70 countries. Its aim was to gather talented craftspeople to showcase their national patterns and applied arts.
One Lao artisan stood out for his remarkable contribution, and his deep-rooted connection to his heritage.
Khounphithack Latesavat, a 29-year-old business owner of Muenna Lao Silk in Luang Prabang, has a passion for incorporating Lao traditions into clothing, including the Sinh (traditional Lao skirt), shirts, and Lao shoulder scarf.
This was Khounphithack’s second attempt at the competition, having previously won second runner-up in 2022. But this time, he came prepared, both creatively and mentally, determined to elevate his work to a new level.
“I wanted to finish what I’ve started, and I’ve learned what my mistakes are, so I fixed them to win the competition this time,” he said.
Crafting Fashion from Luang Prabang’s Spirit
At the heart of Khounphithack’s designs lies his hometown: Luang Prabang.
For the fashion show round, he chose to tell a story of Laos through landmarks that represent its soul.
The first set, called “15 Naga Families”, was inspired by the Naga figures at the town’s Royal Palace, which are a symbol of faith and belief in the spiritual animal that protects the people and the city from harm.
The set was dyed with a natural pigment called klang, which gives it a deep red shade similar to the Royal Palace logo and the symbols of past Lao kings. It was then decorated with a special gold-thread embroidery technique called ding kham, where silver and gold threads are woven together to create intricate patterns.
The second set, “Kinnary-Inspired Traditional Silk Shirt,” was inspired by the Kinnary, a graceful, bird-like female figure from Lao folklore often seen on the walls of Wat Xieng Thong. It was made from high-quality handwoven silk and adorned with detailed gold and silver embroidery, along with diamonds and gemstones.
The sleeves followed the traditional Luang Prabang style, keeping the shirt authentic while giving it a unique and refined appearance.
The last set, “12 Zodiacs,” was inspired by the animals painted on the walls of temples in Luang Prabang. For this design, Khounphithack and his team wove the fabric in a sunflower pattern.
It features 12 colored fabrics woven into the base of the cloth, with each of the 12 zodiac animals embroidered using traditional techniques. Gold and silver threads, along with patterns like square keys and long locks, created a sharp and elegant depiction of each zodiac animal.
“Every minute is priceless on the stage, so I brought these three historic and significant places as a small advertisement about Laos as it is a country with beauty and vulnerability to visit,” Khounphithack said.
Preparation and Passion Elevate Lao Silk Globally
The path to success for the one and only representative from the “Land of a Million Elephants” was not easy. He described the moment before showcasing his handicrafts to the foreign audience:
“It was very tough. I had to prepare so many things, like designing patterns, preparing clothes for the fashion show, shooting a lookbook, and presenting my work in English,” he emphasized.
Despite the hard work, he never forgot the reason he started this journey: to support local products and promote tourism in a way that preserves their uniqueness and ensures they remain sustainable over time.
As the competition was very “intense”, Khounphithack started thinking about the best technique he could use for his work. He came up with a 3D technique that could bring a lively dimension to the patterns. He also blended ancient Lao embroidery with advanced European techniques.
Khounphithack ultimately believed that understanding the judges’ tastes was key to winning the competition.
By using soft-toned colors, he aimed to make the patterns more accessible, helping the judges more easily grasp the essence of Lao culture and appreciate the fabric’s texture.
“The pattern, I tried to adapt it in an international way. It might look simple and common in Laos, but for foreigners, I made it eye-catching for them,” he said.
“Lao silk handicraft reflects not only a tradition but also how people live, how they dress, and how they practice their way of life. It reflects the kind of living that Lao people value and their prosperity in art and culture.”
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/09/24/young-luang-prabang-artisan-wins-global-award-for-lao-embroidery/
Vientiane-Boten Expressway Set for Completion by 2030, Says Deputy Prime Minister
The Vientiane-Boten Expressway, linking Laos’s capital to Boten in Luang Namtha Province, is expected to be completed by 2030, Deputy Prime Minister Saleumxay Kommasith announced during a welcoming ceremony for Xu Hao, Vice Governor of China’s Yunnan Province, on 24 September in Vientiane.
Boten, located on the Laos-China border opposite the Chinese town of Mohan, will be connected to Vientiane through this major infrastructure project, which forms part of the broader Laos-China cooperation framework.
The expressway will extend from the existing Vientiane-Vang Vieng section, Laos’s first expressway, which opened in December 2020, covering 109 kilometers, onward to Luang Prabang, Oudomxay, and finally Boten.
The segment from Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang has completed its survey and preliminary design phase, while the section from Oudomxay to Boten received government approval for construction in mid-2024.
Deputy Prime Minister Saleumxay highlighted the strategic importance of the expressway in enhancing connectivity, boosting trade, and strengthening people-to-people exchanges.
Together with the Laos-China Railway, the expressway will significantly improve transport efficiency, shorten travel times, and facilitate the movement of goods and people, delivering substantial benefits to both nations.
The Vientiane-Vang Vieng section alone has reduced travel time from about 3.5 hours to just one hour, greatly enhancing tourism and commerce.
The full Vientiane-Boten Expressway will span approximately 440 kilometers and, once completed, will operate under a 50-year Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/09/25/vientiane-boten-expressway-set-for-completion-by-2030-says-deputy-prime-minister/
Vientiane Province to Upgrade Tourism Sector with USD-7-million Deluxe Hotel Project
Authorities in Vang Vieng are moving forward with plans to develop the district into a higher-end tourism destination, with a USD 7 million investment in a new 5-star hotel project.
The planned hotel will be 11 storeys high and built on a site covering 8,164 square metres in Meuangxong village, Vangvieng district.
Local officials said the development is intended to serve growing visitor numbers while also creating employment opportunities for nearby residents.
The project was developed through a joint venture between the Vientiane Provincial Planning and Investment Department and the Vientiane International Cultural and Tourism Fortune Link Company Limited.
Under the agreement, the company will have a 50-year concession to build and operate the hotel, with construction expected to take three years.
At the end of the concession period, ownership of the land and building will revert to the provincial government. The agreement also allows for an extension, provided the investor complies with all legal and regulatory requirements.
The developer is required to follow national investment and environmental regulations and to ensure the project delivers measurable benefits to the local economy.
Vang Vieng has seen increasing tourist interest in recent years. The district recorded 1.4 million visitors in 2024 and aims to attract 2 million in 2025, targeting revenue of around LAK 1,700 billion (USD 78.6 million). In addition to infrastructure upgrades, local authorities are promoting annual events like the Nang Sangkhan and Sweet Orange festivals to draw more visitors.
Known for its adventure tourism, Vang Vieng was recently listed among Asia’s top eight destinations for solo backpackers in 2025 by The Times of India
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/09/23/vientiane-province-to-upgrade-tourism-sector-with-usd-7-million-deluxe-hotel-project/
Laos–China Railway Drives Surge in Trade, Travel Across Borders
Since its launch in December 2021, the Laos-China Railway has significantly enhanced Laos’s connectivity and economic activity. The Lao section alone has transported more than 2.6 million passengers, while the entire line has served over 59 million travelers, including 580,000 cross-border passengers.
Daily train services in Laos have increased from just four at the start to 18 per day, improving convenience for both domestic and international travel. The Vientiane–Kunming service, introduced in April 2023, has quickly gained popularity. Monthly passenger traffic along the full line has grown from 600,000 at launch to over 1.6 million, indicating strong and rising demand.
Freight transport has also expanded rapidly. According to China Railway Kunming Bureau Group Co.,Ltd, by September 2025, the line had carried over 67.6 million tons of cargo, including 15 million tons of cross-border shipments.
Laos is now linked to 19 countries and regions, creating an efficient two-way trade corridor.
Major Lao exports include tropical fruits, cassava, rubber, and minerals, while Chinese exports to Laos include electronics, vehicles, solar panels, and daily essentials.
Cargo categories have grown from just a few at launch to over 3,300 types of goods, and new logistics services, including the “Lancang–Mekong Express” and China-Laos Railway + China-Europe Express. freight trains have cut delivery times to Europe to as little as 15 days.
Economic Impact and Future Plans
Looking ahead, efforts are focused on increasing train capacity, modernizing logistics, and improving cross-border services, as a golden channel.
As a key Belt and Road Initiative project, the Laos – China Railway is helping Laos transform from a “landlocked” to a “land-linked” country, connecting it more efficiently with Southeast Asia, China, and Europe.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/09/23/laos-china-railway-drives-surge-in-trade-travel-across-borders/
Laos, Timor-Leste Implement 30-Day Visa-Free Travel
Laos and Timor-Leste have implemented a 30-day visa waiver for citizens holding ordinary passports, effective 15 August. The agreement allows people of both countries to travel visa-free for up to 30 days.
The two countries first signed a visa exemption agreement covering official and diplomatic passports on 8 October 2024. They expanded the agreement in May this year to include ordinary passport holders.
On the same day in 2024, both governments also signed a long-term deal on the exchange of land and property to establish embassies in each other’s capitals, further strengthening bilateral ties.
Timor-Leste has been an observer of ASEAN since November 2022 and is set to become the bloc’s 11th member at the 47th ASEAN Summit this October in Kuala Lumpur.
The announcement was made by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who currently holds ASEAN’s 2025 Chairmanship.
In July, Laos and Belarus signed an agreement allowing citizens with national passports to travel between the two countries visa-free.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/09/22/laos-timor-leste-implement-30-day-visa-free-travel/
Tourist Arrivals in Laos Increased by 15 Percent in First Eight Months of 2025
Laos welcomed over 3,061,928 international tourists in the first eight months of 2025, a 15 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024, according to the Tourism Development Department.
ASEAN visitors remain the largest group, with Thailand leading at 977,675 arrivals, followed by Vietnam with 790,403, China with 750,650, South Korea with 127,379, and the United States with 49,934.
The most popular attractions continue to be nature-based and cultural tourism, with Vientiane Capital, Vientiane Province, Luang Prabang, and Champasack drawing the highest numbers of visitors.
Luang Prabang alone recorded over 2.15 million tourists in the first seven months of 2025, an 83.8 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024. Champasack, home to the Vat Phu UNESCO World Heritage Site, welcomed more than 426,126 visitors in the same period last year.
In 2024, Laos received over 4.1 million tourists generating USD 1.1 billion in revenue, the country aims to exceed its 2025 target of 4.3 million visitors by year-end.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/09/19/tourist-arrivals-in-laos-increased-by-15-percent-in-first-eight-months-of-2025/
Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng Ranked in Asia’s Top 8 by Times of India
Luang Prabang and Vangvieng are among Asia’s top eight destinations for solo backpackers in 2025, according to The Times of India, one of the country’s leading English-language publications.
In a social media story, the publication described Laos as “slower-paced than its neighbors” and “more offbeat,” positioning it as an ideal escape for travelers seeking to avoid crowded hotspots.
Luang Prabang was highlighted for its deep Buddhist heritage, offering a glimpse into centuries-old spiritual traditions.
Meanwhile, Vang Vieng earned praise as Laos’ adventure hub, where visitors can enjoy cave explorations and take in panoramic views on hot-air balloon rides.
Other destinations included in The Times of India’s top eight list are Siem Reap in Cambodia, Chiang Mai in Thailand, Hanoi and the Ha Giang Loop in Vietnam, Bali in Indonesia, Rishikesh in India, Kyoto in Japan, and Ella in Sri Lanka.
The newspaper noted that Asia remains a backpacker’s dream, offering a mix of culture, adventure, and affordability that makes it perfect for solo travelers.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/09/17/luang-prabang-vang-vieng-ranked-in-asias-top-8-by-times-of-india/
Chao Anouvong Stadium Renovation on Track for Late 2026 Completion
The renovation of Vientiane’s Chao Anouvong Stadium is on track and is expected to be completed by October 2026, the Ministry of Education and Sports said.
The project, valued at JPY 4.171 billion (approximately USD 29 million), is funded through grant aid provided by the Government of Japan and is being implemented by Japanese contractors Hazama Ando – Toa Road JV, who won the contract through a competitive bidding process.
The grant agreement was originally signed in December 2023, and followed by a groundbreaking ceremony on 26 March this year.
Upon completion, the stadium is expected to become the first inclusive sports facility in Laos, designed to support multiple athletic activities.
While specific details have not been officially confirmed, prototype visuals suggest that the stadium will accommodate football, rugby, running tracks, and other field-based sports suitable for both training and recreational use.
The stadium will be entirely accessible to persons with disabilities, according to the Ministry of Education and Sports.
It is also envisioned as a central hub for community engagement, fostering opportunities for exercise, sports, and public gatherings in the Lao capital.
First built in 1950 in the center of Vientiane capital, Chao Anouvong Stadium has long served as a venue for national sports such as football, rugby, and para-athletics, as well as community events.
The stadium is named after Chao Anouvong (King Anouvong), the King of Vientiane during the early 19th century.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/09/16/chao-anouvong-stadium-renovation-on-track-for-late-2026-completion/
Laos Calls for Increased ASEAN Investment in Nature-Based Solutions
Laos is urging ASEAN member states to ramp up investment in Nature-based Solutions (NbS) and Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA), calling them powerful tools for protecting forests, strengthening communities, and tackling climate change head-on.
Delivering the message at the 28th Meeting of ASEAN Senior Officials on Forestry in Luang Prabang on 6 July, Somwang Phimmavong, Director General of the Department of Forestry, warned of mounting threats to the region’s forests, including deforestation, ecological degradation, illegal logging, and land use change.
He stressed that without sustainable financing, efforts to implement NbS and EbA will fall short.
To illustrate Laos’ own approach, Somwang pointed to the country’s promotion of Payments for Forest Ecosystem Services (PfES), which help preserve forest areas while boosting local livelihoods. He also highlighted sustainable tourism as a practical way to balance income generation with biodiversity protection.
Building on this, he urged ASEAN countries to share proven financing models—such as PfES, carbon markets, pooled funds, and multi-sector partnerships – to drive greater investment in nature-based climate and conservation efforts.
With roughly 70 percent of Laos’ land classified as state forest and home to around 3,000 villages, the country stands among the world’s top ten in biodiversity richness.
Somwang concluded by calling for stronger institutional capacity and deeper regional knowledge-sharing to accelerate the rollout of effective NbS initiatives across ASEAN.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/09/12/laos-calls-for-increased-asean-investment-in-nature-based-solutions/