The Elephant Festival (Boun Xang) 2026 will take place in Xayabouly district, the provincial capital, featuring 50 elephants in honor of the 50th anniversary of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic.
Boun Xang will begin on 9 February with a traditional ritual to notify spirits, elephant rides, and an evening cultural performance.
On the following day, a 10-kilometer mini-marathon will take place, adding a sporting dimension to the celebrations.
Throughout the week, visitors can enjoy rehearsals of the grand elephant parades, cultural showcases by ethnic groups, a market offering local and international goods, and traditional alms-giving ceremonies for the elephants.
The official opening ceremony on 14 February will feature cultural performances by over 1,000 local students, unique presentations from all 11 districts across the province, and special elephant demonstrations including dancing to traditional Lao instruments, basketball playing, and painting.
Other key attractions include the Miss Elephant Festival Contest, a merit-making ceremony for the elephants, and an array of cultural performances and concerts.
Visitors can also experience elephant rides through Xayabouly district and participate in various other festival activities.
The festival will close on 16 February with a ceremony honoring elephants and awarding prizes for each district’s parade.
Cultural Significance
The elephant holds deep significance as Laos’ national animal, connecting to the country’s historical identity as Lane Xang Kingdom, or “Land of a Million Elephants,” which flourished from the 14th to 18th centuries.
Xayabouly Province is one of the few remaining homes for elephants in Laos and hosts the annual Elephant Festival to celebrate this heritage while promoting conservation efforts.
Most wild elephants are found in the Nam Poui National Protected Area (NPA) in northwestern of the province, which spans 191,200 hectares across Phiang, Paklay, and Thongmixay districts along the Lao-Thai border.
The 2026 Xayabouly Elephant Festival is expected to draw large crowds in a celebration of culture, conservation, and national identity.
Conservation Concerns
While the festival aims to celebrate Laos’ heritage, it also raises important conservation and welfare concerns.
Wild elephant populations in Laos have declined significantly due to habitat loss, while captive elephants face challenges including training practice, performing stress, and inadequate care.
Over the past 30 years, elephant numbers have fallen by more than 75 percent, leaving an estimated 500 to 1,000 animals nationwide, both wild and captive.
Habitat loss remains a major driver of the decline.
Forest cover has dropped from about 70 percent in the 1950s to around 40 percent today, restricting elephant migration routes and increasing conflict with farming communities.
As forests shrink, elephants increasingly enter agricultural areas in search of food, leading to crop damage and, in some cases, retaliatory killings.
Low reproduction rates further complicate recovery.
Experts estimate that for every two to three elephant births each year, around ten elephants die, largely due to ageing populations, stress, and limited breeding opportunities. Illegal trafficking, particularly of calves destined for overseas zoos, continues to pose additional risks.
In Xayabouly Province, which remains home to one of Laos’ largest elephant populations, conservation groups such as the Elephant Conservation Center work to rehabilitate the species, support mahout livelihoods, and promote breeding and habitat protection.
Animal welfare advocates emphasize the need for ethical tourism that prioritizes observation-based experiences over rides, proper veterinary care, and natural social groupings.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2026/02/04/xayabouly-to-host-annual-elephant-festival-amid-ongoing-animal-welfare-debate/
Thailand to Raise International Departure Tax by 53 Percent from 20 June
Thailand is set to increase the international departure Passenger Service Charge from 20 June.
The move will be implemented across six major airports, which include at Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Mae Fah Luang-Chiang Rai, Phuket, and Hat Yai airports.
The new rate raises the fee from THB 700 to THB 1,120 (approximately USD 36), a 53 percent increase, and will apply to international departing passengers.
Meanwhile, the domestic rates remain unchanged at THB 130 (about USD 4.1) per passenger.
Airports of Thailand in a statement on their website stressed that the passenger service charge is not a tax or profit-generating measure, but is reserved exclusively for airport operations and infrastructure development, subject to ministerial approval.
Revenue will fund upgrades including the satellite terminal project at Suvarnabhumi, terminal improvements at Don Mueang, and the rollout of the Common Use Passenger Processing System to reduce waiting times and improve check-in efficiency.
This move puts Thailand second only to Singapore for exit charge prices, with other countries in the region remaining cheaper.
Thailand welcomed 32.9 million foreign tourists in 2025, with Suvarnabhumi alone handling nearly 60 million passengers, including arriving and transit travellers, that year.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2026/02/26/thailand-to-raise-international-departure-tax-by-53-percent-from-20-june/
Laos Prioritizes Self-Reliant Economy in Next Five Years
The Lao government has planned to build a self-reliant and sustainable economy, leaders said Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone at the latest government meeting on 24 February.
Setting the direction for the 10th National Socio-Economic Development Plan (2026–2030), the government will focus on resolving economic and financial challenges while avoiding heavy debt burdens.
Cabinet members reviewed implementation of a resolution draft update, which was circulated to clarify responsibilities across ministries and improve coordination.
The government also examined a five-year action plan to modernize revenue collection. The reforms target higher efficiency, stronger transparency and improved domestic resource mobilisation to reduce external dependence.
Sustainable Growth and Structural Reform
Beyond fiscal reform, the meeting reviewed tourism performance in 2025 and explored ways to expand the sector, recognizing its role in generating foreign exchange and employment.
The group also reviewed draft regulations on transporting dangerous goods by road and rail, and on international non-governmental organizations, aimed at enhancing regulatory clarity, public safety, and effective governance.
The new plan places emphasis on human resource development, science and technology, poverty reduction and narrowing development gaps
At the same time, balanced and green growth will be the pillar of the next phase, focusing on renewable energy and zero-emission transport to ensure sustainable and environmental development.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2026/02/25/laos-prioritizes-self-reliant-economy-in-next-five-years/
Thailand Considers Cutting Visa-Free Stay from 60 to 30 Days
Thailand is considering reducing its visa-free stay period from 60 days to 30 days, following reports that the extended entry scheme has been misused for illegal work and criminal activities.
On 10 February, the Thai Cabinet acknowledged a report from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs highlighting concerns linked to the current 60-day visa exemption policy, according to Airin Phanrit, deputy spokesperson for the Office of the Prime Minister. A newly-established committee will now review the program and recommend changes.
Authorities have identified several critical issues driving this proposed change.
Reports indicate foreigners are taking advantage of the 60-day visa exemption rule or using Thailand as a transit route for criminal activities in neighbouring countries, affecting national security and the country’s reputation.
Additionally, the Thai Hotels Association and travel agencies have raised concerns about the surge in illegal short-term apartment rentals and foreign-owned businesses operating through Thai nominees during the 60-day window.
Moreover, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports revealed that most tourists don’t actually require 60 days, noting that average stays are only 21 days or less, with short-haul visitors typically staying around one week. This suggests the extended period is largely unnecessary for genuine tourists.
Despite the proposed reduction, officials emphasized that visitors requiring longer stays will still be able to apply for extensions. Various agencies, including the Immigration Bureau, have agreed in principle to tighten the rules to prevent further abuse.
In July 2024, Thailand expanded its Visa Exemption Scheme from 57 to 93 countries under former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, including the United States, Canada, Vietnam, and Laos. The scheme currently grants 60 days visa-free stay with an option to extend for an additional 30 days.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2026/02/13/thailand-considers-cutting-visa-free-stay-from-60-to-30-days/
Laos Targets 6 Million Visitors in 2026 as Chinese Arrivals Projected at 2 Million
Laos expects to welcome between 5 and 6 million international tourists in 2026, with Chinese visitors projected to account for around 2 million of that total, according to government estimates.
The numbers will be the result from the 65th anniversary of Lao–China diplomatic relations and growing interest in travel along the Lao–China railway, which will further connect to another railway in ASEAN, China, and Europe.
Tourism remains one of Laos’ key economic pillars. Before the Covid-19 pandemic, the country received nearly 5 million international visitors annually, including more than 1 million Chinese tourists. At the time, Chinese visitors generated close to USD 700 million in revenue, surpassing income from several other sectors.
Visitor numbers have steadily recovered since reopening. In 2024, Laos recorded more than 4.1 million international arrivals, nearly one million more than in 2023. In 2025, arrivals climbed to almost 4.6 million, including about 1.1 million Chinese tourists.
Railway Driving Visitor Growth
Minister of Public Works and Transport Leklay Sivilay said the Lao–China railway has played a central role in supporting tourism growth.
Since operations began in late 2021, around 12 million passengers have travelled domestically within Laos.
Along the Vientiane–Kunming route, passenger numbers have continued to rise, while freight transport has also expanded significantly. Domestically, the railway has moved about 16 million tonnes of goods, with total freight along the broader route reaching approximately 72 million tonnes.
Authorities say the railway has reduced travel time and logistics costs, making cross-border tourism more convenient. Improved transport links have encouraged regional travelers to include Laos in multi-country itineraries.
The government plans to further integrate the Lao–China and Lao–Thailand railways and position the country as a regional transport hub.
Construction of the Lao–Vietnam railway from Khammouane Province to the Vietnamese border is expected to begin soon, while a feasibility study is underway for a Vientiane–Pakse railway.
Five-Year Tourism Goals
Looking ahead, Laos aims to attract 22 million international visitors between 2026 and 2030, generating an estimated USD 8 billion in revenue. Domestic tourism is projected to reach 11 million trips over the same period, valued at approximately USD 5 billion.
Officials said growing interest in heritage sites, natural attractions, and cultural tourism, combined with improved regional connectivity, is expected to sustain momentum. If current trends continue, tourism will remain a major driver of economic growth, with authorities targeting annual expansion of at least 6 percent through 2030.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2026/02/11/laos-targets-6-million-visitors-in-2026-as-chinese-arrivals-projected-at-2-million/
Students Join That Luang Lake Cleanup as part of ‘Keep Lao Clean’ Campaign
Plastic waste at That Luang Lake has drawn renewed attention after primary school students joined a cleanup activity as part of a broader push to promote environmental responsibility.
That Luang Lake is one of Vientiane’s most visited public spaces. It serves as a popular exercise area in the early morning and transforms into a busy evening market for families and vendors. However, plastic litter has increasingly accumulated around the lake.
Recently, Year 4 students and staff from Panyathip British International School carried out a cleanup along the lake’s shore as part of their International Primary Curriculum unit, “The Nature of Life.” The activity aimed to connect classroom learning with environmental action.
“Our teaching approach shows that learning can go beyond the physical classroom environment. The children made us so proud,” sid David Dauncey, their class teachers. “By cleaning the lake area, students see the real-world impact of waste and we hope these young change-makers carry these lessons forward to help others look after nature for the benefit of everyone.”
Students filled several large bags with trash during the activity, though participants said the amount of waste in the area exceeded what the group could remove in a single session.
“We wanted to help nature and stop plastic trash getting into the lake,” said Nin, a Year 4 student. “It made me feel a bit sad to see so much trash as it was kind of disgusting. We hope people stop dropping and burning trash in our country.”
The school’s Deputy Headteacher Nuky Rodil said the school supports practical environmental education.
“We are proud to see learning come to life beyond the classroom walls,” she said. “Through hands-on experiences and real community action, our students and teachers are turning knowledge into purpose.”
Community groups in other provinces, including Luang Prabang, have also organized cleanups and awareness campaigns in recent months.
Environmental advocates say that while volunteer activities help reduce visible waste, long-term improvement depends on consistent public cooperation, stronger waste management systems, and responsible disposal practices.
Officials continue to encourage residents and businesses to support efforts to keep public spaces clean, emphasizing that environmental protection requires participation from all sectors of society.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2026/02/12/students-join-that-luang-lake-cleanup-as-part-of-keep-lao-clean-campaign/
Luang Prabang to Restrict Tour Vans from City Centre, End Riverside Parking
Authorities in Luang Prabang have approved new traffic measures to reduce congestion around the Night Market and historic areas, following repeated complaints over traffic jams and disorderly parking.
The Luang Prabang Department of Public Works and Transport announced the decision on 2 February, citing growing pressure from residents over tour vans stopping along narrow streets in the city centre.
Under the new rules, tour vans are no longer permitted to use the main central route running from the Night Market entrance to the tip of the peninsula where the Nam Khan River meets the Mekong River. Instead, vans must use designated parallel one-way streets along the riversides to drop off or pick up passengers.
After drop-off or pick-up, vans must park in approved areas outside busy streets and are not allowed to remain in the city centre.
At the same time, parking areas along the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers will be reserved for local residents.
Traffic police will continue managing vehicle flow at the main Night Market intersection, where congestion remains frequent during peak tourist hours.
Officials said the measures aim to improve traffic safety, reduce bottlenecks, and better balance tourism activity with daily life for local residents. They added that further traffic adjustments may follow as visitor numbers continue to rise.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2026/02/10/luang-prabang-to-restrict-tour-vans-from-city-centre-end-riverside-parking/
Champasak Welcomes Nearly 730,000 Tourists, Exceeds Annual Target
Champasak Province recorded positive tourism growth in 2025, welcoming nearly 730,000 visitors and reaching 207 percent of its annual target, according to provincial authorities.
The southern Lao province recorded 286,941 domestic tourists and 441,123 international travelers, with an 11.24 percent increase compared to 2024. Tourism activities generated over USD 94 million in revenue throughout the year.
The growth was driven by strategic tourism promotion and cultural initiatives implemented throughout 2025.
Key activities included major religious and cultural festivals such as the Vat Phou Festival, participation in national and regional tourism exhibitions, and enhanced promotion of the province’s natural attractions, including Khone Phapheng Waterfalls, Si Phan Don (4,000 Islands), Bolaven Plateau, and Tad Fane and Tad Gneuang waterfalls.
Provincial authorities emphasized ongoing improvements to tourism services, heritage site management, ecotourism areas, and community-based tourism facilities to support sustainable development.
Despite the high numbers recorded in 2025, the province set its 2026 to 633,822 tourists with projected revenue of at least USD 100 million.
Priorities include sustainable tourism development, improved service quality, and strengthened marketing to both domestic and international markets, with particular focus on Si Phan Don, Vat Phou, Bolaven Plateau, and historical and cultural tourism around Pakse City.
Nationally, Laos welcomed nearly 4.6 million tourists in 2025, exceeding the government’s target, according to the Tourism Development Department.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2026/02/06/champasak-welcomes-nearly-730000-tourists-exceeds-annual-target/
Xayabouly to Host Annual Elephant Festival Amid Ongoing Animal Welfare Debate
The Elephant Festival (Boun Xang) 2026 will take place in Xayabouly district, the provincial capital, featuring 50 elephants in honor of the 50th anniversary of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic.
Boun Xang will begin on 9 February with a traditional ritual to notify spirits, elephant rides, and an evening cultural performance.
On the following day, a 10-kilometer mini-marathon will take place, adding a sporting dimension to the celebrations.
Throughout the week, visitors can enjoy rehearsals of the grand elephant parades, cultural showcases by ethnic groups, a market offering local and international goods, and traditional alms-giving ceremonies for the elephants.
The official opening ceremony on 14 February will feature cultural performances by over 1,000 local students, unique presentations from all 11 districts across the province, and special elephant demonstrations including dancing to traditional Lao instruments, basketball playing, and painting.
Other key attractions include the Miss Elephant Festival Contest, a merit-making ceremony for the elephants, and an array of cultural performances and concerts.
Visitors can also experience elephant rides through Xayabouly district and participate in various other festival activities.
The festival will close on 16 February with a ceremony honoring elephants and awarding prizes for each district’s parade.
Cultural Significance
The elephant holds deep significance as Laos’ national animal, connecting to the country’s historical identity as Lane Xang Kingdom, or “Land of a Million Elephants,” which flourished from the 14th to 18th centuries.
Xayabouly Province is one of the few remaining homes for elephants in Laos and hosts the annual Elephant Festival to celebrate this heritage while promoting conservation efforts.
Most wild elephants are found in the Nam Poui National Protected Area (NPA) in northwestern of the province, which spans 191,200 hectares across Phiang, Paklay, and Thongmixay districts along the Lao-Thai border.
The 2026 Xayabouly Elephant Festival is expected to draw large crowds in a celebration of culture, conservation, and national identity.
Conservation Concerns
While the festival aims to celebrate Laos’ heritage, it also raises important conservation and welfare concerns.
Wild elephant populations in Laos have declined significantly due to habitat loss, while captive elephants face challenges including training practice, performing stress, and inadequate care.
Over the past 30 years, elephant numbers have fallen by more than 75 percent, leaving an estimated 500 to 1,000 animals nationwide, both wild and captive.
Habitat loss remains a major driver of the decline.
Forest cover has dropped from about 70 percent in the 1950s to around 40 percent today, restricting elephant migration routes and increasing conflict with farming communities.
As forests shrink, elephants increasingly enter agricultural areas in search of food, leading to crop damage and, in some cases, retaliatory killings.
Low reproduction rates further complicate recovery.
Experts estimate that for every two to three elephant births each year, around ten elephants die, largely due to ageing populations, stress, and limited breeding opportunities. Illegal trafficking, particularly of calves destined for overseas zoos, continues to pose additional risks.
In Xayabouly Province, which remains home to one of Laos’ largest elephant populations, conservation groups such as the Elephant Conservation Center work to rehabilitate the species, support mahout livelihoods, and promote breeding and habitat protection.
Animal welfare advocates emphasize the need for ethical tourism that prioritizes observation-based experiences over rides, proper veterinary care, and natural social groupings.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2026/02/04/xayabouly-to-host-annual-elephant-festival-amid-ongoing-animal-welfare-debate/
Laos Records 4.8 Percent Growth in 2025, Sets Higher Economic Targets for 2026
Laos recorded economic growth of 4.8 percent in 2025, signalling a steady recovery across major sectors, according to the Lao Statistics Bureau.
Services, manufacturing, and agriculture remained the main pillars supporting overall economic performance.
Services accounted for 36.3 percent of the economy, supported by growth in tourism-related activities, transport, and trade.
Manufacturing followed at 32 percent, indicating sustained industrial activity, while agriculture contributed 20.3 percent, remaining vital to rural livelihoods and food security.
Income indicators also showed gradual improvement. GDP per capita reached USD 2,176 in 2025, while gross national income (GNI) per capita stood at USD 2,029, pointing to rising average income levels.
Focus Turns to 2026 Growth Targets
Looking ahead, the government aims to accelerate economic growth to at least 5.5 percent in 2026, exceeding the current estimate of 5.1 percent based on recent trends. The target builds on direction from the 2025 recovery.
Tourism, energy, logistics, agriculture, and agro-processing industries have been identified as key drivers for the year ahead.
Authorities are also aiming to raise income levels further, with GDP per capita projected at USD 2,238 and gross national income per capita at USD 2,101.
Overall, the Laos economic growth 2025 figures point to a stabilising economy led by services, with steady support from manufacturing and agriculture. With higher targets set for 2026, the focus remains on strengthening core sectors to sustain growth and improve household incomes.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2026/02/04/laos-records-4-8-percent-growth-in-2025-sets-higher-economic-targets-for-2026/
Attapeu Province Attracts Over 160,000 Tourists in 2025, Exceeds Annual Target
Attapeu Province recorded tourism growth in 2025, welcoming 160,067 visitors and achieving nearly 114 percent of annual targets.
According to provincial authorities, the southern Lao province’s tourism sector achieved 113.84 percent of its planned objectives, with visitors comprising 31,217 domestic tourists and 128,850 international travelers. Tourism activities generated LAK 74 billion (approximately USD 3.4 million) in revenue.
The success was driven by strategic initiatives throughout the year. Key activities included major cultural and tourism events such as the King Xayasetthathirat Festival, celebrations for Lao Tourism Year, and participation in regional tourism product exhibitions to promote provincial attractions.
Provincial authorities noted that infrastructure development proceeded on schedule, with 90 tourist sites developed to meet 100 percent of planned targets. Key projects included surveys of Xe Kaman 1 Dam, Phu Daeng Cave (Red Mountain), and the historic Ho Chi Minh Trail to develop as tourism sites in the future.
For 2026, the province has adopted the tourism slogan “Modern, Preserved, Impressive,” aiming to attract more domestic and international tourists.
Nationally, Laos welcomed nearly 4.6 million tourists in 2025, an 11 percent increase year-on-year that surpassed the government’s target of 4.3 million visitors, according to the Tourism Development Department.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2026/02/03/attapeu-province-attracts-over-160000-tourists-in-2025-exceeds-annual-target/