In the post-COVID era, Chinese investment in Laos has surged dramatically, positioning China to overtake Thailand as Laos’ top trading partner. According to the Lao Ministry of Planning and Investment, Chinese companies invested in 17 projects worth USD 986 million in Laos in 2023, a massive increase from the USD 339 million across 30 projects in 2022. This tripling of investments reflects China’s strategic economic ambitions and its long-term plan to deepen ties with Laos under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
The most prominent symbol of this partnership is the USD 6 billion China-Laos railway, which became operational in December 2021. This joint venture, set to extend into Thailand, will create a direct link from Kunming, China, to the southernmost parts of mainland Southeast Asia – Malaysia and Singapore – thus enhancing regional connectivity and solidifying China’s influence in the region. The railway is part of China’s broader expansion strategy to establish a seamless trade corridor through Laos to other ASEAN nations.
In addition to China’s investments, Hong Kong has emerged as a vital partner in Laos’ economic development, focusing on digital transformation and financial innovation. A key milestone in this evolving partnership was the recent signing of a strategic investment agreement between Goldford Group and the Lao National Digital Technology Group (LADT). This Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), witnessed by Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee and Lao Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Saleumxay Kommasith, was signed by Johnny Ng, Chairman of the Board of Goldford Group, and Sengaloun Souphanouvong, Director of LADT.
Johnny Ng, who also serves as the Chairman of the Web3 Hub Fund under the Hong Kong government and a legislator in Hong Kong’s Legislative Council, has been at the forefront of promoting Web3 and digital finance innovations. His leadership in this MoU exemplifies Hong Kong’s commitment to supporting ASEAN countries, particularly Laos, in their digital transformation efforts.
Divergent Approaches to Virtual Asset Regulation: Laos vs. Hong Kong
While Laos is making strides in digital finance, it grapples with regulatory and infrastructural limitations that can impact the growth of virtual assets and digital payment systems. In contrast, Hong Kong, with its more developed financial infrastructure, faces the challenge of balancing regulatory oversight with innovation, according to Ng.
“Governments can balance fostering innovation with ensuring financial security by adopting a risk-based regulatory framework that aligns oversight with the risks of various virtual asset activities,” Ng wrote in a recent email exchange. “This approach allows for stringent regulation of high-risk activities while nurturing innovation in safer areas.”
The regulatory landscape for virtual assets like Bitcoin starkly contrasts between developing nations such as Laos and developed regions like Hong Kong. In Laos, the regulatory environment is notably flexible, thanks to the early stages of electronic and cross-border payment systems, Ng remarked.
“This flexibility fuels fintech innovation and is bolstered by government efforts to attract foreign investment with favorable tax and regulatory policies,” he said. Ng further highlighted the 2023 collaboration between the Bank of Laos and Japanese company Soramitsu as a prime example, noting their joint effort to develop a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) using blockchain technology.
“Policies must be flexible and adaptive, evolving with the digital asset landscape,” the Web3 Hub Fund’s Chairman stated.
Hong Kong’s legal framework currently struggles with the complexities of decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs), suggesting a need for tailored regulations for blockchain foundations and DAOs. Additionally, enhancing financial literacy through education and awareness can help reduce fraud and misuse. By adopting these strategies, Ng believes that governments can foster technological innovation while ensuring financial security and investor protection.
Moreover, the recent MoU between Goldford Group and LADT is poised to significantly advance digital finance and technology between Hong Kong and Laos. This partnership aims to create a new payment model that merges Web2 and Web3 technologies, addressing the demand for a more integrated and efficient payment system.
The emerging payment model that integrates Web2 and Web3 technologies promises to reshape transaction processes by combining the ease of Web2 with the advanced capabilities of Web3. This hybrid approach aims to streamline crypto adoption, merging the user-friendly aspects of traditional payment systems with the decentralized, secure features of blockchain technology. Tools that bridge Web2 and Web3, such as APIs for authentication and cross-chain transactions, could simplify the user experience and foster wider acceptance of decentralized financial systems.
Advancing Financial Integration in Southeast Asia
“The Southeast Asian region, particularly countries like Laos, presents significant opportunities for expanding financial inclusion and integrating advanced digital payment solutions,” Ng said, emphasizing the importance of this collaboration. “The growth of infrastructure, such as the Laos-China Railway, has enhanced connectivity and increased demand for efficient cross-border payments.”
The electronic and cross-border payment market in Laos has shown impressive growth, with electronic payment transactions increasing by over 15 percent annually in recent years, and projections indicate a continued compound annual growth rate of 15.19 percent from 2024 to 2028.
The SWIFT system’s dominance in cross-border payments highlights the need for more efficient and competitive alternatives. While SWIFT is widely used, its reliance on intermediaries results in higher costs and slower transactions. In contrast, cross-border QR payment systems in Southeast Asia, such as those in Vietnam and Thailand, offer a promising solution. These QR systems enable real-time transactions, reduce costs, and improve accessibility, particularly for unbanked populations, thereby enhancing financial inclusion in the region.
The partnership also opens up opportunities for exploring blockchain applications for secure and transparent financial services, aligning with global fintech trends. Additionally, this collaboration can help develop local talent and strengthen digital infrastructure, supporting sustainable economic growth in Laos while benefiting from Hong Kong’s technological expertise and investment acumen.
Hong Kong’s role as a “superconnector” is crucial in this context. By leveraging its position, Hong Kong aims to support Lao Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in areas such as banking, digital finance, logistics, and e-commerce.
“This role builds on the success of previous ASEAN missions and emphasizes Hong Kong’s commitment to fostering regional economic integration,” Ng said.
Trade statistics further underscore the growing relationship between Laos and its regional partners. Between April 2023 and 2024, Chinese exports to Laos rose by 38.6 percent to USD 324 million, while imports from Laos increased by 40.7 percent to USD 408 million. Key Chinese exports include electric locomotives, insulated wire, and plastic pipes, while Laos exports potassic fertilizers, chemical wood pulp, and iron and copper ores.
As Laos establishes itself as a key Southeast Asian hub, its partnerships with China and Hong Kong are set to reshape its economic landscape. A recent memorandum of cooperation between the Lao News Agency and the HKTDC, signed at the Belt and Road Forum, underscores Laos’ commitment to transitioning from a landlocked to a land-linked country. Meanwhile, the collaboration between Goldford Group and LADT aims to integrate advanced digital payment systems, enhancing connectivity and boosting financial inclusion.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/09/05/op-ed-china-hong-kongs-strategic-investments-in-laos-usher-in-a-new-era-of-economic-collaboration/
Sekong Launches Electronic Birth Registration System
Sekong’s Ministry of Home Affairs launched the “Electronic Civil Registration and Vital Statistics” system on 3 September, aiming to enhance the management, use, protection, and retrieval of citizens’ information.
The new electronic birth registration system is designed to record and analyze citizens’ statistics, facilitating public access to government services and helping safeguard their rights and best interests.
Deputy Minister Nisith Keopanya announced that all Lao nationals will receive a certificate confirming their citizenship status. This data will be used to guide policy-making and national socio-economic development plans, including the Sustainable Development Plan, in line with international agreements the government has signed.
Nisith emphasized that the recording of citizen statistics is a key objective of the government, particularly because Laos is home to diverse ethnic groups and religions that contribute to national unity, protection, and development.
The electronic citizen information management system’s development began in 2022, with the birth and death registration features becoming operational in February 2023. The province has set a target of registering at least 80 percent of citizens and newborns by 2025.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/09/09/sekong-launches-electronic-birth-registration-system/
Khao Soi Goes Viral: TikTok Sparks New Trend in Traditional Lao Cuisine
Khao Soi Luang Namtha has become a social media sensation, surging to the forefront of Lao cuisine thanks to a viral TikTok video. This traditional noodle dish, a classic in the northern Luang Namtha and Luang Prabang provinces, has found a new wave of fans across Laos and beyond, all thanks to Khonemany Keosaenmai, the 30-year-old star of the viral video.
Her clip, which showed a unique way to enjoy Khao Soi, has reignited interest in the traditional noodle, making it a trending favorite among both locals and visitors.
Khao Soi, which translates to “cut rice,” is made from rice flour. The process involves steaming the flour in a rectangular mold, then rolling and cutting it into long noodle-like pieces.
Traditionally served with pork or beef broth, Khao Soi is complemented by a sauce made from minced pork, tomatoes, and fermented bean paste, with additional seasoning sauces to enhance its flavor. It’s typically enjoyed as a soup, but Khonemany’s video introduced a new approach: wrapping the noodles around the sauce and chili, creating a handheld roll.
Khonemany explained that her innovative method was born out of practicality.
“I prefer Khao Soi without soup, so I tried to wrap it and it turned out good. I’m surprised that I could make our traditional local food more popular among everybody,” she said.
The woman ‘s passion for Khao Soi is deeply rooted in her upbringing. She proudly described the dish as a symbol of Muang Sing district, her native region, her native region, where it has been a staple in every household and local restaurant since her childhood.
Her adaptation was influenced by a type of dry Khao Soi that is less common but still cherished in local cuisine. By modifying the traditional serving method, Khonemany aimed to make the dish more convenient and accessible.
“I would like the next generation to develop Khao Soi as a product for export so that we can promote Lao food internationally,” she said.
Khao Soi is more than just a dish in Laos—it’s a tradition passed down through generations. This popular noodle dish has deep roots in Lao culture, enjoyed by families for years. It continues to be a favorite meal, found in homes and markets across the country.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/09/06/khao-soi-goes-viral-tiktok-sparks-new-trend-in-traditional-lao-cuisine/
Okard Launches Inclusive Internship Program for Persons with Disabilities
World Education and the Department of Policy for Devotees, Persons with Disabilities, and Older Persons (part of the Secretariat of the National Committee for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD)) at the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare hosted two information sessions this week. These sessions highlighted the new Disability Inclusive Internship Program, a key component of the ‘Okard: Capacity Strengthening on Disability Inclusive Development Project’ funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
The sessions were designed to announce exciting internship opportunities for persons with disabilities, available through employers in both the public and private sectors in Vientiane.
The goal is to help job seekers with disabilities gain professional experience and enhance their skills and employability through on-the-job training with participating employers. A survey conducted in Vientiane revealed that persons with disabilities prefer on-the-job skills development over formal vocational training.
This program, set to be implemented in Vientiane from 2024 to 2027, will help bridge this gap. The information sessions, attended by around 100 participants, provided both job seekers with disabilities and employers with an opportunity to learn about the program, including the eligibility criteria and the support offered.
For job seekers with disabilities, any individual aged 14 years or older, regardless of disability type, is eligible to apply for the program. Employers from both the public and private sectors interested in participating can apply through an online application system.
The session for employers was attended by Chomyaeng Phengthongsawat, Director General of the Department of Policy for Devotees, Persons with Disabilities, and Older Persons (Secretariat of the NCPD) of the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare, Michael McCord, USAID Country Representative to Laos, Bernard Franck, and other stakeholders.
In his opening remarks, Director General Chomyaeng emphasized the importance of the Disability Inclusive Internship Program.
“This program will equip persons with disabilities with the necessary skills needed in the labor market through on-the-job training offered by employers in both the public and private sectors. This will contribute to increasing employment opportunities for persons with disabilities in Laos.”
McCord highlighted the vital role of the public-private partnership in promoting economic empowerment for persons with disabilities in Laos. “Today’s event marks a significant milestone in our collective effort to support persons with disabilities in Lao PDR. By providing them with the opportunity to intern, we are helping them take their first steps towards building skills and gaining professional experience, which are essential for accessing future employment opportunities,” McCord said.
The Disability Inclusive Internship Program under the Okard Project aims to facilitate internships for at least 35 persons with disabilities in the public and private sectors in Vientiane. Interns will receive a monthly stipend, personal accident insurance, reasonable accommodation, and peer-to-peer support during the six-month internship. Additionally, a job coach will conduct follow-up visits to monitor progress in skills development, capacity building, and confidence in the workplace. Employers are expected to designate a buddy for each intern and provide on-the-job training, coaching, and mentorship to help the interns grow and succeed in their roles.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/09/06/okard-launches-inclusive-internship-program-for-persons-with-disabilities/
OP-ED: China, Hong Kong’s Strategic Investments in Laos Usher in a New Era of Economic Collaboration
In the post-COVID era, Chinese investment in Laos has surged dramatically, positioning China to overtake Thailand as Laos’ top trading partner. According to the Lao Ministry of Planning and Investment, Chinese companies invested in 17 projects worth USD 986 million in Laos in 2023, a massive increase from the USD 339 million across 30 projects in 2022. This tripling of investments reflects China’s strategic economic ambitions and its long-term plan to deepen ties with Laos under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
The most prominent symbol of this partnership is the USD 6 billion China-Laos railway, which became operational in December 2021. This joint venture, set to extend into Thailand, will create a direct link from Kunming, China, to the southernmost parts of mainland Southeast Asia – Malaysia and Singapore – thus enhancing regional connectivity and solidifying China’s influence in the region. The railway is part of China’s broader expansion strategy to establish a seamless trade corridor through Laos to other ASEAN nations.
In addition to China’s investments, Hong Kong has emerged as a vital partner in Laos’ economic development, focusing on digital transformation and financial innovation. A key milestone in this evolving partnership was the recent signing of a strategic investment agreement between Goldford Group and the Lao National Digital Technology Group (LADT). This Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), witnessed by Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee and Lao Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Saleumxay Kommasith, was signed by Johnny Ng, Chairman of the Board of Goldford Group, and Sengaloun Souphanouvong, Director of LADT.
Johnny Ng, who also serves as the Chairman of the Web3 Hub Fund under the Hong Kong government and a legislator in Hong Kong’s Legislative Council, has been at the forefront of promoting Web3 and digital finance innovations. His leadership in this MoU exemplifies Hong Kong’s commitment to supporting ASEAN countries, particularly Laos, in their digital transformation efforts.
Divergent Approaches to Virtual Asset Regulation: Laos vs. Hong Kong
While Laos is making strides in digital finance, it grapples with regulatory and infrastructural limitations that can impact the growth of virtual assets and digital payment systems. In contrast, Hong Kong, with its more developed financial infrastructure, faces the challenge of balancing regulatory oversight with innovation, according to Ng.
“Governments can balance fostering innovation with ensuring financial security by adopting a risk-based regulatory framework that aligns oversight with the risks of various virtual asset activities,” Ng wrote in a recent email exchange. “This approach allows for stringent regulation of high-risk activities while nurturing innovation in safer areas.”
The regulatory landscape for virtual assets like Bitcoin starkly contrasts between developing nations such as Laos and developed regions like Hong Kong. In Laos, the regulatory environment is notably flexible, thanks to the early stages of electronic and cross-border payment systems, Ng remarked.
“This flexibility fuels fintech innovation and is bolstered by government efforts to attract foreign investment with favorable tax and regulatory policies,” he said. Ng further highlighted the 2023 collaboration between the Bank of Laos and Japanese company Soramitsu as a prime example, noting their joint effort to develop a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) using blockchain technology.
“Policies must be flexible and adaptive, evolving with the digital asset landscape,” the Web3 Hub Fund’s Chairman stated.
Hong Kong’s legal framework currently struggles with the complexities of decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs), suggesting a need for tailored regulations for blockchain foundations and DAOs. Additionally, enhancing financial literacy through education and awareness can help reduce fraud and misuse. By adopting these strategies, Ng believes that governments can foster technological innovation while ensuring financial security and investor protection.
Moreover, the recent MoU between Goldford Group and LADT is poised to significantly advance digital finance and technology between Hong Kong and Laos. This partnership aims to create a new payment model that merges Web2 and Web3 technologies, addressing the demand for a more integrated and efficient payment system.
The emerging payment model that integrates Web2 and Web3 technologies promises to reshape transaction processes by combining the ease of Web2 with the advanced capabilities of Web3. This hybrid approach aims to streamline crypto adoption, merging the user-friendly aspects of traditional payment systems with the decentralized, secure features of blockchain technology. Tools that bridge Web2 and Web3, such as APIs for authentication and cross-chain transactions, could simplify the user experience and foster wider acceptance of decentralized financial systems.
Advancing Financial Integration in Southeast Asia
“The Southeast Asian region, particularly countries like Laos, presents significant opportunities for expanding financial inclusion and integrating advanced digital payment solutions,” Ng said, emphasizing the importance of this collaboration. “The growth of infrastructure, such as the Laos-China Railway, has enhanced connectivity and increased demand for efficient cross-border payments.”
The electronic and cross-border payment market in Laos has shown impressive growth, with electronic payment transactions increasing by over 15 percent annually in recent years, and projections indicate a continued compound annual growth rate of 15.19 percent from 2024 to 2028.
The SWIFT system’s dominance in cross-border payments highlights the need for more efficient and competitive alternatives. While SWIFT is widely used, its reliance on intermediaries results in higher costs and slower transactions. In contrast, cross-border QR payment systems in Southeast Asia, such as those in Vietnam and Thailand, offer a promising solution. These QR systems enable real-time transactions, reduce costs, and improve accessibility, particularly for unbanked populations, thereby enhancing financial inclusion in the region.
The partnership also opens up opportunities for exploring blockchain applications for secure and transparent financial services, aligning with global fintech trends. Additionally, this collaboration can help develop local talent and strengthen digital infrastructure, supporting sustainable economic growth in Laos while benefiting from Hong Kong’s technological expertise and investment acumen.
Hong Kong’s role as a “superconnector” is crucial in this context. By leveraging its position, Hong Kong aims to support Lao Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in areas such as banking, digital finance, logistics, and e-commerce.
“This role builds on the success of previous ASEAN missions and emphasizes Hong Kong’s commitment to fostering regional economic integration,” Ng said.
Trade statistics further underscore the growing relationship between Laos and its regional partners. Between April 2023 and 2024, Chinese exports to Laos rose by 38.6 percent to USD 324 million, while imports from Laos increased by 40.7 percent to USD 408 million. Key Chinese exports include electric locomotives, insulated wire, and plastic pipes, while Laos exports potassic fertilizers, chemical wood pulp, and iron and copper ores.
As Laos establishes itself as a key Southeast Asian hub, its partnerships with China and Hong Kong are set to reshape its economic landscape. A recent memorandum of cooperation between the Lao News Agency and the HKTDC, signed at the Belt and Road Forum, underscores Laos’ commitment to transitioning from a landlocked to a land-linked country. Meanwhile, the collaboration between Goldford Group and LADT aims to integrate advanced digital payment systems, enhancing connectivity and boosting financial inclusion.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/09/05/op-ed-china-hong-kongs-strategic-investments-in-laos-usher-in-a-new-era-of-economic-collaboration/
Laos Joins School Meals Coalition
Laos has officially joined the School Meals Coalition, a global alliance focused on advancing child nutrition, education, and well-being through comprehensive school meal programs. The announcement was made on 4 September in Vientiane during an event attended by key figures including Minister of Education and Sports Phout Simmalavong and French Ambassador Siv-Leng Chhuor.
The School Meals Coalition, now comprising 101 countries, aims to ensure that every child has access to a nutritious meal at school by 2030. This initiative supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 17 (Partnerships), and SDG 4 (Quality Education).
Currently, more than 33 percent of Lao children suffer from chronic malnutrition, impacting their cognitive development and academic performance. Laos’ national school meal program reaches 25 percent of primary schools, serving 250,000 children.
As a new Coalition member, Laos plans to expand its school meal initiatives and collaborate with international and local partners to address malnutrition. The government aims to utilize international expertise and resources to develop a sustainable, locally sourced school meal program, benefiting both students and local agriculture.
Laos has been developing its national school nutrition system since 2000, with support from the World Food Program, Catholic Relief Services, and the World Bank. The national program, launched in 2010, targets regions with high food insecurity and malnutrition. In 2020, a domestic budget line was allocated, and in 2022, a Decree for Promoting School Lunch was endorsed.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/09/05/laos-joins-school-meals-coalition/
Nam Theun 2 Development Fund Expands to Benefit More Districts
The Nam Theun 2 Development Fund (NT2DF) is set to expand its reach beyond Nakai’s resettled villages, bringing the transformative projects to the entire district and soon to neighboring Gnommalath and Mahaxay districts.
On 27 August, the Khammouane Provincial Authorities, in partnership with Nam Theun 2 Power Company, held the eighth steering committee meeting for the Nam Theun 2 Development Fund (NT2DF). Co-chaired by Vanxay Phongsavanh, Khammouane Governor and Marc-Antoine Rupp, Nam Theun 2 Chief Executive officer.
The meeting reviewed NT2DF’s progress over the past six months, emphasizing successes in long-term scholarships, social safety nets, and funding for domestic animal disease prevention in 16 hamlets.
The fund originally aimed at enhancing livelihoods in 16 newly established villages in Nakai and now is moving into Phase 2. This phase will extend support to the entire Nakai District, with future plans to include Gnommalath and Mahaxay Districts, aiming for more substantial outcomes.
Nam Theun 2 CEO Antoine stressed the importance of ongoing collaboration: “We must work together as a team. Each of us has a crucial role in turning plans into action and advancing our region. Let’s stay united in building a brighter future for Nakai and beyond.”
Nam Theun 2 Power Company is committed to sustainable development, environmental protection, and empowering communities. As NT2DF enters this new chapter, the company looks forward to continued progress.
During the meeting, the NT2DF Steering Committee handed over equipment and medicines valued at LAK 171 million (USD 7,745) to the Nakai Forestry and Agriculture Office, responsible for program implementation.
Established through a 2018 cooperation agreement between Khammouane Province and Nam Theun 2, NT2DF exclusively supports sustainable economic and social development around the Nam Theun 2 Project. Funding is based on annual energy production, with LAK 1,000 (USD 0.045) allocated per megawatt-hour. Additionally, Nam Theun 2 has contributed over LAK 30 billion (USD 1,358,800) to the fund from 2018 to 2023.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/09/04/nam-theun-2-development-fund-expands-to-benefit-more-districts/
Yoyo Laos Sauce Spices Up the World Stage with New Laos Production Hub
Yoyo Laos Sauce is making a significant leap onto the global stage. Originally produced in Yorkshire, UK, by Lao-British couple Frazer and Hatsadee “Yoyo” Rhodes, the sauce will now be manufactured in Laos thanks to a new partnership with Mai Savanh Laos, a local social enterprise.
It all began in 2020 when Yoyo served her homemade ginger chili sauce to friends during the Covid-19 pandemic. The response was overwhelmingly positive, she recalled.
“They dipped it non-stop with their sticky rice. They told me, ‘Yoyo, it’s so good. I can’t stop eating it,’” Yoyo said.
Inspired by their friends’ enthusiasm, Frazer saw the pandemic as an opportunity to launch a business. With supermarkets being one of the few places people could buy food, he proposed selling their sauce there.
“So we bought some bottles, made a really simple label, and started making the sauce. We took it to the market, and it all sold,” Frazer said, reflecting on how the couple began producing the sauce at home.
This initial success quickly led to further opportunities, allowing the Rhodes family to expand production to their own factory.
“Then we got into our first shop, then our first restaurant, and then we received our first international order. It just kept growing and growing. We developed more sauces and built a bigger range,” Frazer added.
Frazer emphasized that the sauce is made by hand by the couple and their team to ensure top-quality ingredients. They believe that this manual process, rather than using machines, achieves the best results.
Moving to Laos and Partnering with Local Businesses
As their business grew, the Rhodes family realized they needed to scale up production. They sought out manufacturers in the UK willing to hand-make the Lao-style sauce but found this effort futile.
Their luck changed when they visited Yoyo’s home country of Laos in January this year. In Laos, Frazer discovered a small bottle of sauce with a design similar to their own, sparking the idea of shifting production to Laos, where ingredients are “fresher.”
Noticing the label “Produced by Mai Savanh Laos,” he emailed them as Yoyo Laos Sauce from the UK to express interest. Frazer quickly met Schmidt Philippe, CEO of Mai Savanh Laos, who offered to help expand their brand, aligning with their mutual goal of promoting Lao products.
By November, the Rhodes family plans to ship 35,000 bottles back to the UK. The enhanced production process in Laos has also created jobs for locals. There are currently three production sites in Laos—Vientiane, Bolaven, and Sekong—employing 51 workers, including 61 percent women and 43 percent ethnic minorities, many of whom have been marginalized in Laos.
During their time in Laos, Yoyo Laos Sauce also partnered with The Mines Advisory Group (MAG), a UK-based charity, where they also donated their sauce.
“The production costs here are lower than in the UK, which means we can offer a better price to retailers, who can then make a better margin,” Frazer explained. “Now we’re starting to get interest from other places, like the Middle East, Dubai, and Japan.”
Some of their products are already available in Vientiane, and they plan to expand distribution to more shops nationwide starting in September.
Despite the progress, the transition has not been without challenges. Yoyo noted that achieving the same taste as the original UK recipe required numerous adjustments. “The team has done about 30 or 40 different tests. It’s taken many attempts, with slight changes each time,” she said.
Raising Awareness of Laos
In addition to business growth, the Rhodes family aims to increase awareness of Laos. “A lot of customers in the UK ask us, ‘What is Laos? Where is Laos?’” Yoyo said. To address this, the sauce labels include a QR code linking to information about Laos.
The family is also conducting research with locals to gather more information about the country. “We’d like to get some interviews with the staff and learn about their history and background,” Frazer added.
Yoyo Laos Sauce can be used as a dipping sauce, marinade, or added to stir-fries and salads to spice things up. As they say in Laos, “Sap lai lai,” which means very tasty.
The sauce’s popularity soared after winning Great Taste™ awards in 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024, along with the winner of the UK National Chilli Awards in 2022.
“Some of the awards we’ve won have all been blind taste tests. The judges don’t see any packaging; they just get a little pot, taste it, and judge. Winning the UK National Chilli Awards, ranking 18th globally, getting an award for the European Hot Sauce Awards, and the Great Taste Awards—it’s all a big honor,” Frazer said.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/09/04/yoyo-laos-sauce-spices-up-the-world-stage-with-new-laos-production-hub/
Laos Chairs 28th APSC Meeting on ASEAN Security, Integration
On 8 October, at the National Convention Center, Saleumxay Kommasith, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Laos, led the 28th ASEAN Political-Security Community (APSC) Council Meeting, focusing on regional security, cooperation, and the implementation of the APSC Blueprint 2025.
The meeting, under the theme “ASEAN: Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience”, saw attendance by ASEAN Foreign Ministers, Indonesia’s Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal, and Security Affairs, the Secretary-General of ASEAN, the Foreign Minister of Timor-Leste, and other ASEAN delegates.
The council reviewed the progress of the APSC Blueprint 2025, noting that 99.6 percent of its action lines have been successfully implemented. However, there remains one key action line that still needs to be addressed and completed before 2025.
The meeting highlighted Laos’s achievements as ASEAN Chair in 2024, including the successful activities of key ASEAN bodies under the APSC pillar. These included the ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting (ADMM), the ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus), the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Transnational Crime (AMMTC), the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), and the ASEAN Network of Regulatory Bodies on Atomic Energy (ASEANTOM).
The ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights and other APSC mechanisms also played a crucial role in driving progress. Additionally, the meeting acknowledged the 2023 annual report from the ASEAN Institute for Peace and Reconciliation.
Another major event was the 35th ASEAN Coordinating Council meeting, which reviewed Timor-Leste’s roadmap to full ASEAN membership. At this meeting, 13 key reports on regional integration were adopted to enhance connectivity within the region. The council also approved essential documents for the upcoming 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits.
The discussions further explored ASEAN’s three community pillars, with a focus on strengthening connectivity and resilience. Reports from the ASEAN Secretariat, the ASEAN Integration Task Force, and the ASEAN Smart Cities Network were reviewed and adopted.
Lastly, the meeting confirmed the nomination of Myanmar’s San Lwin as Deputy Secretary-General for the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community for the 2024-2027 term. The meeting concluded with an emphasis on ASEAN’s commitment to deeper integration and stronger regional cooperation.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/10/09/laos-chairs-28th-apsc-meeting-on-asean-security-integration/
Laos, Thailand Set Sights on USD 11 Billion Trade Goal by 2025
Laos and Thailand held an economic and trade cooperation talk during the 24th Economic Community Council Meeting on 7 October in Vientiane Capital, aiming to reach a trade value of USD 11 billion by 2025.
To achieve the goal, the Lao delegation, led by Minister of Industry and Commerce Malaithong Kommasith, presented several initiatives to the Thai Minister of Commerce Pichai Naripthaphan, focusing on overcoming trade barriers.
A key concern addressed during the meeting was the need to reduce or eliminate non-tariff barriers that currently hinder the import of agricultural products from Laos to Thailand.
The discussion identified restrictive regulations and inconsistent import quotas on products such as corn, coffee, and vegetables as significant obstacles that need to be resolved.
The Lao Minister also highlighted the importance of aligning these policies with the ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement (ATIGA) to facilitate smoother trade relations.
ATIGA, which was signed in 2010 by all ten ASEAN member states, serves as a legal framework to facilitate the free flow of goods within the region.
Additionally, the Lao government aims to support domestic products and reduce the trade deficit with Thailand by promoting the purchase of Lao goods. This initiative is expected to attract Thai investors to explore opportunities in Laos, particularly in the processing industry.
Laos’ effort to promote its local products was evident during the “Made in Laos 2024” fair, which took place from 30 September to 7 October in Vientiane Capital.
The event showcased local products and supported various business sectors, while promoting Lao entrepreneurs who produce goods both domestically and abroad. It emphasized high-quality, locally made products that can compete within the country and boost exports.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/10/08/laos-thailand-set-sights-on-usd-11-billion-trade-goal-by-2025/
Laos Launches Unified Foreign Exchange Market
On 6 October, the Bank of Laos (BOL) officially partnered with 11 commercial banks to launch the Lao Foreign Exchange Market Company Limited, an initiative aimed at enhancing foreign exchange services, streamlining currency exchange processes, and improving public access to these services.
The participating banks include Banque Pour Le Commerce Extérieur Lao Public (BCEL), Agricultural Promotion Bank, ST Bank, BIC Bank, Joint Development Bank, Lao-Viet Bank, Lao Development Bank, Indochina Bank, Banque Franco-Lao, Phongsavanh Bank, and Maruhan Japan Bank Laos.
According to local reports, the Lao Foreign Exchange Market Company Limited is expected to be fully operational by the end of October. Services will be accessible online through mobile applications and websites, reflecting the growing demand since the platform’s soft launch.
Initially, the market will focus on facilitating transactions involving the US dollar, Thai baht, and Chinese yuan. At this stage, only spot buying and selling transactions will be allowed, with no cross-currency exchanges. This gradual rollout will ensure that the system runs smoothly while accommodating future expansions.
This recent development builds on efforts made earlier in August, when 15 banks signed an agreement to establish a foreign exchange market and integrate it into their banking systems.
Fongchinda Sengsoulivong, Deputy Director General of the Monetary Policy Department, highlighted the progress made so far. By 22 August, seven banks, including BCEL, Agricultural Promotion Bank, BIC Bank, Joint Development Bank, Lao Development Bank, Lao-Viet Bank, and ST Bank, had already begun offering foreign exchange services through their mobile platforms.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/10/08/laos-launches-unified-foreign-exchange-market/