Vientiane Province Welcomes Over 900,000 Tourists in First Quarter of 2025

In the first quarter of 2025, Vientiane Province attracted a total of 902,057 visitors, including 416,232 domestic tourists and 485,825 international arrivals, said Sengkeo Sounthavongsa, The Deputy Director of the Department of Information, Culture and Tourism of Vientiane Province on 4 April.

This surge in tourism generated over LAK 754 billion (USD 34.8 million) in revenue. 

Key tourist hotspots during this period included Ang Nam Ngum 1 in Keo Oudom district, the key tourism hotspot of Vang Vieng, and the natural Feuang district. 

Behind this success was the coordinated effort between provincial authorities, local businesses, and community stakeholders to strengthen the tourism sector. This included improving tourism infrastructure, diversifying experiences, and solving development challenges across the province.

Currently, Vientiane Province hosts 1,053 licensed tourism-related businesses and 238 tourist attractions, 62 of which are currently operational.

The quality of tourism services in the province has also seen measurable improvements. Six local tourism businesses received ASEAN Tourism Standard awards in 2024. One hotel has been recognized as 5-star, two as 4-star, and 14 businesses have met national tourism certification standards.

Cultural events and traditional festivals also played a significant role in attracting tourists, Sengkeo said. 

In 2024, Vientiane Province recorded a total of 1,9 million tourist visits, generating over LAK 1,372 billion (USD 63.33 million) in income. The province has set its sights on attracting over 2 million tourists in 2025, with a projected tourism income of no less than LAK 1,820 billion (USD 83.91 million).

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/04/08/vientiane-province-welcomes-over-900000-tourists-in-first-quarter-of-2025/

First Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge Marks 31st Anniversary

The First Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge marks its 31st anniversary on 8 April. 

Opened in 1994, it was the first major land link between Laos and Thailand, designed to boost the region’s economy, trade, and social, cultural, tourism, and transportation connections.

Stretching across the Mekong River, the bridge was a joint project between Laos, Thailand, and the Australian government. It connects Nong Khai in Thailand to Tha Duea in Laos, just 20 km from the capital, Vientiane.

At 1,174 meters long and 12.7 meters wide, the bridge has two traffic lanes and a railway line linking Thailand to Thanaleng in Laos.

Over the past three decades, the bridge has facilitated millions of crossings each year and played a vital role in the region’s economic growth.

A Network of Friendship Bridges

The First Lao–Thai Friendship Bridge laid the foundation for a growing network of cross-border connections between Laos and Thailand along the Mekong River. Since its opening, a series of additional bridges were built to strengthen economic ties, boost regional trade, and make travel more accessible for communities on both sides.

The second bridge, completed in 2006, connects Mukdahan Province in Thailand with Savannakhet in Laos. It plays a key role in supporting trade and forms part of the Asian Highway Route AH16. 

Building on this momentum, the third bridge was inaugurated in 2011, linking Nakhon Phanom in Thailand to Khammouane Province in Laos. This route has since become an important corridor for trade extending toward Vietnam and southern China.

Further north, the fourth bridge opened in 2013, connecting Chiang Rai Province in Thailand with Bokeo Province in Laos. This crossing completed a section of the Asian Highway 3, enhancing connectivity across the Greater Mekong Subregion.

Now nearing completion, the fifth bridge will link Borikhamxay Province in Laos with Bueng Kan Province in Thailand. Scheduled to open in May 2025, it will be part of celebrations marking the 75th anniversary of Lao-Thai diplomatic relations.

Looking ahead, both countries are preparing for the construction of a sixth bridge, which will connect Ubon Ratchathani in northeastern Thailand with Salavan Province in southern Laos. 

With an estimated cost of around USD 140 million, this new link aims to further deepen cross-border cooperation and regional integration.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/04/08/first-lao-thai-friendship-bridge-marks-31st-anniversary/

Vientiane to Get Real-Time Bus Tracking with ViaBus

The Lao government is teaming up with Thailand to introduce ViaBus, a real-time bus tracking system designed to improve the efficiency of public transportation in Vientiane.

This initiative is a collaboration between the Vientiane Capital State Bus Enterprise and Via Group (Thailand) Co., Ltd. The goal is to develop an application that offers convenient tracking of public transportation for passengers.

The ViaBus app will provide live updates on bus locations, routes, and schedules across Vientiane. All of this information will be available in one easy-to-use system.

The app is the brainchild of Intouch Marsvongpragorn, a Chulalongkorn University alumnus and Managing Director of Via Group. He was recognized on Forbes’ 30 Under 30 Asia list in 2021 for his contributions as an innovator and entrepreneur under the age of 30.

Currently, Vientiane’s public transport system relies on Lao Bus Navi, the only real-time bus tracking app in Laos. Developed by LekPKD, Lao Bus Navi has been downloaded over 10,000 times. 

It tracks 17 major routes and is available for Android users on Google Play or through its official website. The app aims to help commuters by providing real-time schedules and navigation assistance.

However, despite its efforts to improve the passenger experience, Lao Bus Navi has faced operational issues, such as buses not appearing on the map, inaccurate timings, and occasional problems with bus location transmitters not being active.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/04/03/vientiane-to-get-real-time-bus-tracking-with-viabus/

Three Cultural Treasures of Savannakhet Earn National Heritage Status

On 30 March, the governor of Savannakhet Province officially recognized three cultural treasures in the province as national heritage sites: Hor Tai Pee Dok (The Library of Buddhist Manuscripts), Taleo Temple, and Khonesavanh Singing.

Hor Tai Pee Dok

Hor Tai Pee Dok, the Library of Buddhist Manuscripts, was founded at the end of the 14th century by Lukkhampha, the abbot of the Tai Pee Dok temple. 

Originally serving as a school for monks and a place to preserve Buddhist manuscripts, the library was renovated in 2006 and has since become a popular tourist destination. It is celebrated for its historical importance and unique architectural style. 

The library remains a sacred site, particularly for the Champhone people, who visit to worship and seek blessings. Visitors are required to dress respectfully—women must wear traditional Lao skirts (sinh), and shoes are not allowed inside.

Taleo Temple

Vat Taleo, located about 60 km southeast of Savannakhet, was built shortly after World War I. 

The exact date of the main building’s construction is unclear, but it is believed to have been created by the Phu Tai community, an ethnic group found in Laos and Thailand. The inscriptions at the temple are in classical Lao, though locals now speak modern Lao.

While much of the original temple was destroyed, the main hall (Vihaan) survived, with only minor repairs to the roof and structural damage. The murals inside, depicting the Vessantara Jataka, are likely original and date back to the 1930s. 

During the Vietnam War, North Vietnamese soldiers occupied the temple before a bombing raid by American forces. A bomb that hit the Vihaan failed to explode. The temple was later abandoned, and a new one was built nearby. Today, the altar at Vat Taleo is still used for worship and remains a sacred site.

Khonesavanh Singing

Khonesavnah singing, or Lum Khonsavanh, is a traditional form of Lao music from Savannakhet. The performance includes instruments such as the Khaen, Lao drum, and Phin, and is an important part of the province’s cultural heritage.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/04/02/three-cultural-treasures-of-savannakhet-earn-national-heritage-status/

Laos to Strengthen Road Safety During Lao New Year

Vientiane plans to deploy 1,172 traffic police officers across 143 stations in the country during the Lao New Year celebrations to ensure orderly, convenient, and safe road traffic from 11 to 17 April.

These officers will enforce speed limits, conduct alcohol checks, prioritize traffic control, address illegally parked vehicles to prevent congestion, and maintain 24-hour vigilance to promptly respond to accidents.

A total of 316 traffic accidents were reported during the 2024 celebrations across Laos, resulting in 33 fatalities, 594 injuries, and damage to 567 vehicles.

The main causes of accidents were overspeeding, drunk driving, and improper lane changes.

The provinces with the highest number of accidents were Vientiane Province with 43 cases, Champasak with 39 cases, and Vientiane Capital with 37 cases. 

The provinces with the highest number of fatalities were Vientiane, Luang Prabang, and Vientiane Capital.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/04/02/laos-to-strengthen-road-safety-during-lao-new-year/

Vientiane Authorities Announce Regulations for Lao New Year Celebrations

The Ministry of Public Security has released regulations for the upcoming Lao New Year, which will be celebrated from April 14 to 16. These measures aim to ensure public safety and orderly celebrations throughout Vientiane Capital.

Public Safety and Crime Prevention

Residents are urged to remain vigilant and safeguard their belongings while participating in festivities. Any suspicious activities should be reported to the authorities immediately. Local leaders, including village and district officials, are instructed to collaborate closely to prevent theft, violence, and drug-related incidents.

Compliance for Businesses and Entertainment Venues

Restaurants, bars, and entertainment establishments must strictly follow government-issued regulations, including excessive noises and unlawful gatherings that involve drug activities. These measures are in place to uphold public safety and security throughout the celebrations.

Traffic and Road Safety Measures

Drivers must ensure that their documents are valid and up to date. Motorcyclists are required to wear helmets, while car drivers must fasten their seatbelts at all times. Driving under the influence of alcohol is strictly prohibited to minimize road accidents and protect public safety.

Ban on Fireworks and Water Splashing Restrictions

The use of fireworks that produce loud noises is prohibited as they may cause disturbances to others. Additionally, using dirty or colored water for splashing is strictly forbidden to maintain hygiene and prevent discomfort among revelers.

Dress Code for Temple Visits

Visitors entering temples should dress modestly, avoiding revealing clothing that may be considered inappropriate or disrespectful. Proper attire is essential to maintaining the sanctity of religious sites.

Regulations on Gatherings and Public Spaces

Residents are not allowed to gather along roadsides, as such gatherings could obstruct traffic and create congestion. Authorities will enforce these regulations to ensure smooth traffic flow during the festival.

Fines for Rule Violations

Those who violate these regulations will face fines ranging from LAK 500,000 (USD 23.08) to LAK 10 million (USD 461.68), depending on the severity of the offense. Authorities urge the public to adhere to these rules to ensure a safe and enjoyable Lao New Year celebration for all.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/03/31/vientiane-authorities-announce-regulations-for-lao-new-year-celebrations/

France Funds 11 Lao Civil Society Projects for Gender Equality

As part of France’s commitment to gender equality worldwide, Siv-Leng Chhuor, Ambassador of France to Laos, signed the grant agreements on 27 March with the eleven Lao organizations benefiting from the French small grants program Equipe France Fund – Civil Society Organizations (FEF-OSC) for 2025, formerly known as PISCCA. 

This is the second and last phase of the 2024-2025 FEF-OSC program, which supports civil society organizations’ (CSO) initiatives on gender equality. In total, the 2024-2025 program finances 19 projects with an envelope of over half a million dollars. Since 2010, the French Embassy has supported 82 projects in Laos, for a total amount of more than USD 3 million.

The FEF-OSC is aligned with the French government’s national and global commitment to promote women’s rights and gender equality, notably through its feminist strategy (2025-2030). In addition to taking gender into account as a priority in all projects carried out by France, gender equality is at the heart of this program, and constitutes its main objective. 

This year, the 11 selected projects will be implemented in eight different provinces: Bokeo, Salavanh, Vientiane, Savannakhet, Phongsaly, Champasack, Luang Prabang and Khammouane. 

Among these selected organizations, six of them will build on their FEF-OSC grant obtained in 2024 through a second phase in 2025. Somphong Chaleurnsack, president of the Ecotouristic Association of Konglor-Natane (AEKN), signed a grant agreement of LAK 499,658,081 (USD 23,303) for their project aiming at strengthening women’s civic and economic influence in the Hin Boun valley of Khammouane province. 

The Association for the Development and Promotion of Women’s Leadership (ADPWL), represented by Bouakham Sythvong, received a grant of LAK 386,158,791 (USD 17,953.60) to carry out the second phase of its project aiming at ending the violence against sex workers and improving their access to health services in Vientiane Capital. 

Inthana Bouphasavanh, representing the Association for the Development of Women and Legal Education (ADWLE), signed the FEF-OSC 2025 agreement for LAK 432,658,081 (USD 20,110).

This marks the second phase of ADWLE’s project, dedicated to improving the response to gender-based violence (GBV) survivors and protecting vulnerable women and children’s legal rights. 

The Association for the Promotion Preservation of Arts and Literature (APPAL), represented by Soukphansa Phouphasouk and recipient of a FEF-OSC grant in 2024, received LAK 494.750.000 (USD 23,000) to implement a new project empowering women and young people to lead and take action to protect the environment. 

Manivone Vorachak represented the Cooperation for Development and Support to Local Knowledge Association (COSKA) as Secretary General. 

The association received LAK 422,714,000 (USD 19,515.88) for the second phase of its project in Phongsaly province on the economic empowerment of young women and better GBV prevention. Empowering women and people with disabilities by improving their economic independence and social inclusion is the main objective of the Lao Disabled People’s Association (LDPA) in Sekong Province. 

Sommay Sethanak, director of the association, signed the grant agreement of LAK 350,000,00 (USD 1,615.88). Soukaseum Bodhisan, President of the Namjai Community Association (NCA), came from Bokeo Province to sign the FEF-OSC 2025 grant agreement of LAK 482,500,000 (USD 22,276.08). 

This second phase aims at providing quality education to girls from ethnic minorities and protecting them from all forms of violence, including early marriages, in Bokeo province. The social enterprise Project Space – Pha Tad Ke will empower young Lao women writers and contribute to a broader public dialogue on feminism, ecology, and social injustice. 

Their director, Henricus Gadella, signed a grant agreement of LAK 242,700,000 (USD 11,204.99) for this project. Sengsavang, represented by Virith Khattignavong, was awarded  LAK 489,997,000 (USD 22,622.21) for the second phase of their project focused on the sustainable reintegration of survivors and women at-risk of human trafficking and domestic violence in Savannakhet province. 

Souphaphone Dangmany, director of STELLA, received LAK 494,750,000 (USD 22,841.64) for their project aimed at empowering young female leaders to help their peers, as well as high school students, understand the importance of study planning and encourage them to explore STEAM fields. 

Lastly, Viengpeth Phongchalern came from Salavan province to represent the Women Development Fund (WDF). The foundation received LAK 300,000,000 (USD 13,850.42) for the second phase of their project on the development of a model gender equality village (MGV), and the prevention of domestic violence and early marriages in Salavan province. 

The FEF-OSC 2025 selection committee was held on Monday 17 March and was composed of development partners who support, and are familiar with, civil society and gender equality issues: the German International Development Cooperation Agency (GIZ) and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP). 

This edition is the last phase of the two-year program on gender equality. In early 2026, a new FEF-OSC program on a different thematic (tba) will be launched.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/03/31/france-funds-11-lao-civil-society-projects-for-gender-equality/

Women with Disabilities Association Brings Lao Handicrafts to the Global Stage

The Women With Disability Association (WWDA) is leading an initiative to provide opportunities for women with disabilities in Laos. 

The initiative, largely funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) under the Japanese government, aims to enhance the Lao handicraft sector and give individuals with disabilities the opportunity to showcase their work to an international audience.

Since its inception in 2001, WWDA has received substantial support from JICA and the Asia Center for Air Pollution Research (ACAP). This collaboration has enabled the center to not only produce high-quality handcrafted goods but also expand its offerings by providing vital facilities, training, and even field trips to Japan, where individuals could learn new ideas and skills for product development.

The association officially became an association in 2021, founded by Chanhpheng Sivila, a disabled woman with a deep passion for social change. Having learned advanced handicraft skills in Japan in 1997, Chanhpheng’s mission was to bring her skills and knowledge back to Laos to help others in her community, especially disabled women, gain valuable employment opportunities.

“After I came back to Laos, I adapted those lessons to implement them here, especially for those with disabilities because I want them to have the same opportunities,” Chanhpheng said, also mentioning her dedication to creating a better future for women with disabilities.

Currently, nearly 30 disabled students from Oudomxay and Bokeo Provinces are enrolled at the center. These students are taught to produce detailed handicrafts, such as weaving, pottery, ceramics, and paper crafts, all of which are sold to foreigners as part of the center’s efforts to raise awareness and promote Lao craftsmanship globally.

In addition to the focus on craft production, WWDA is also committed to improving the quality of life for women in rural areas, many of whom have limited access to education.

“We gave them vocational training, they’ll be taught basic education first, then we coordinated with job organizations to give them a job such as in a garment factory. Also, some of them stay with us to learn more about sewing and work in textile,” Chanhpheng explained.

Despite the success of these initiatives, Chanhpheng expressed concern about the limited number of students enrolled compared to the many individuals who lack access to such opportunities. She hopes that more funding will allow the organization to extend its services to a broader group of disabled people, especially those from remote regions.

One of the staffs in WWDA.

WWDA’s vision is to continue promoting Lao handicrafts while showcasing the true value of these works, especially in partnership with other provinces with unique handicraft traditions.

“We aim to keep supporting handicrafts so that society knows its true value, also in partnership with other Provinces with different uniqueness,” said Chanhpheng, highlighting the importance of continued innovation in the sector.

To further enhance the quality and variety of products, the Japan Embassy has sent a volunteer from JICA to provide advice on new product development. Taeko Taguchi, a community developer, has spent three years volunteering at WWDA, helping with product design and offering valuable guidance to the center.

“I feel very grateful for being a volunteer here, hopefully to help develop Lao products to be better and better,” Taguchi stated. 

This year marks the 60th anniversary of JICA’s Volunteer Programme, which has supported numerous projects in Laos since 1965. Through the program, over 40 volunteers currently work across the country, dedicated to strengthening the bond between Laos and Japan and contributing to Laos’ development.

Koga Toshimichi, the head of the economic section at the Japanese Embassy in Laos, emphasized the long-standing relationship between the two countries. 

“The project that we implemented in Laos is not only for economic development, but also for human resources development with long-term development,” he said, reiterating Japan’s commitment to helping Laos in various sectors, including education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

Other notable projects supported by the Japanese government include the JICA MaWaSU Project, which focuses on water supply sector development, as well as the construction of new Setthathirath Hospitals in Vientiane and Chamsassak. Additionally, the Lao-Japan Institute is dedicated to human resource development in Laos.

As Laos celebrates its 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations with Japan, it is clear that the ongoing collaboration between the two countries continues to play a pivotal role in the development of Laos’ human resources and economy. 

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/03/27/women-with-disabilities-association-brings-lao-handicrafts-to-the-global-stage/

ASEAN Center for Energy Launches Net Zero Emissions Roadmap for Laos

In line with Laos’ commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, as outlined in its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), the ASEAN Centre for Energy (ACE) launched its flagship publication, “An Energy Sector Roadmap to Net Zero Emissions for Laos.” 

This report marks ACE’s first national-level initiative to guide a country on its journey towards net-zero emissions, exploring potential pathways for reducing energy sector emissions.

The energy sector remains one of the largest contributors to climate change, and this Lao Net Zero Report focuses on the adoption of various technological approaches, including renewable energy and emerging low-carbon technologies, as potential solutions. 

The event was held alongside the dissemination of ACE’s other key publication, the 8th ASEAN Energy Outlook (AEO8), which was launched under Laos’ ASEAN Chairmanship in 2024. 

The AEO8, which will be shared across ASEAN Member States (AMS) in the coming months, provides strategic insights into optimising and decarbonising energy systems for a sustainable future. It aims to offer key findings and policy recommendations for sustainable energy planning in the region. 

Dato’ Ir. Ts. Razib Dawood, Executive Director of ACE, stated, “The ASEAN Energy Outlook serves as a vital reference for shaping a sustainable energy future for the region. It provides strategic insights into optimising and decarbonising our energy systems. We are proud to begin our net zero collaboration with Laos and look forward to partnering with all AMS to accelerate progress towards climate targets, particularly in the energy sector.”

Around 40 representatives from various Lao government agencies, academic institutions, and state-owned enterprises attended the event. Participants actively engaged in a panel discussion focused on enhancing regional cooperation, knowledge sharing, and intergovernmental collaboration to achieve both national and regional climate goals.

Santisouk Phimphachanh, Senior Official on Energy Leader for Laos, noted, “The hosting of these key events emphasises Laos’s commitment to leading the region toward a sustainable, low-carbon future. ACE’s pivotal role in fostering regional cooperation in the energy sector, along with other low-carbon initiatives, is essential to achieving our climate and energy goals.”

The AEO8’s findings will be disseminated through a series of country-level events across the ASEAN Member States, supporting knowledge-sharing and capacity-building initiatives throughout the region. 

Laos, as the first country to collaborate with ACE in developing a national-level report on its pathway to net zero, demonstrates its strong commitment to the energy transition and to fostering innovation for a sustainable future.

Zulfikar Yurnaidi, Manager of Energy Modelling and Policy Planning at ACE, highlighted the importance of aligning regional and national energy planning: “The 8th ASEAN Energy Outlook introduced the Carbon Neutrality Scenario (CNS) at the regional level, which has now been translated into this country-specific roadmap, with Laos as our first partner. Through the AEO and national net zero reports, ACE is committed to supporting ASEAN Member States in advancing regional cooperation for collective energy and climate goals.”

Aldilla Noor Rakhiemah, Project Manager of the ASEAN Climate Change and Energy Project (ACCEPT), added, “The launch of ‘An Energy Sector Roadmap to Net Zero Emissions of Laos’ is a pivotal milestone in Laos’s energy transition journey.

ACCEPT plays a key role in strengthening the energy-climate nexus through data-driven analysis and accelerating regional collaboration by conducting regional capacity-building efforts. This aligns with ACCEPT’s long-term goal of supporting ASEAN Member States in transitioning to a low-carbon energy system and achieving their net-zero targets.”

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/03/25/asean-center-for-energy-launches-net-zero-emissions-roadmap-for-laos/

Luang Prabang Economy Sees Steady Growth, Surpassing GDP Targets

Luang Prabang has experienced steady economic growth over the past five years, with an average annual growth rate of 6.9 percent. 

The province’s gross domestic product (GDP) reached LAK 3,989 billion (around USD 183 million), surpassing the initial target of LAK 931 billion (about USD 42 million), according to Saveuy Silavanh, Standing Party Member and Deputy Mayor of Luang Prabang district during the 8th Congress of the Luang Prabang Party Committee on 24 March.

This economic growth translates to an average annual income of LAK 39 million (approximately USD 1,897) per person.

One of the most significant contributors to Luang Prabang’s economic success is its thriving tourism sector, Saveuy noted.

In 2024, the province welcomed over 2.3 million visitors, surpassing the initial target of 900,000. According to the Luang Prabang Department of Information, Culture, and Tourism, the UNESCO Heritage Town hosted 1,532,394 foreign visitors last year.

To support the continued expansion of tourism, Saveuy said that the authorities have focused on upgrading infrastructure, including building concrete roads to villages and improving access routes to popular attractions. 

Additionally, tourism-related facilities have expanded rapidly, while major infrastructure projects such as the Lao-China Railway and Luang Prabang International Airport continue to undergo upgrades.

Beyond tourism, Luang Prabang has made progress in human resource development, public healthcare, rural development, and poverty alleviation. As a result of these efforts, the government officially recognized the province as a “comprehensively strong city” and a “poverty-free city” in February.

Investment has also played a crucial role in the province’s economic development. Currently, there are 72 investment projects in Luang Prabang, with a combined value exceeding USD 174 million. Of these, 53 domestic projects account for more than USD 140 million, while 19 foreign investment projects contribute over USD 33 million.

With continued efforts to improve infrastructure and attract investment, Luang Prabang is poised for sustained economic and tourism growth in the coming years.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/03/25/luang-prabang-economy-sees-steady-growth-surpassing-gdp-targets/