Lao handicrafts shone brightly on the global stage, as a unique embroidery technique by a young Lao artisan won the Youngest Artisan award at this year’s International Festival of Handicrafts in Kokand, Uzbekistan.
The festival, held from 19 to 21 September, brought together 250 international participants from over 70 countries. Its aim was to gather talented craftspeople to showcase their national patterns and applied arts.
One Lao artisan stood out for his remarkable contribution, and his deep-rooted connection to his heritage.
Khounphithack Latesavat, a 29-year-old business owner of Muenna Lao Silk in Luang Prabang, has a passion for incorporating Lao traditions into clothing, including the Sinh (traditional Lao skirt), shirts, and Lao shoulder scarf.
This was Khounphithack’s second attempt at the competition, having previously won second runner-up in 2022. But this time, he came prepared, both creatively and mentally, determined to elevate his work to a new level.
“I wanted to finish what I’ve started, and I’ve learned what my mistakes are, so I fixed them to win the competition this time,” he said.
Crafting Fashion from Luang Prabang’s Spirit
At the heart of Khounphithack’s designs lies his hometown: Luang Prabang.
For the fashion show round, he chose to tell a story of Laos through landmarks that represent its soul.
The first set, called “15 Naga Families”, was inspired by the Naga figures at the town’s Royal Palace, which are a symbol of faith and belief in the spiritual animal that protects the people and the city from harm.
The set was dyed with a natural pigment called klang, which gives it a deep red shade similar to the Royal Palace logo and the symbols of past Lao kings. It was then decorated with a special gold-thread embroidery technique called ding kham, where silver and gold threads are woven together to create intricate patterns.
The second set, “Kinnary-Inspired Traditional Silk Shirt,” was inspired by the Kinnary, a graceful, bird-like female figure from Lao folklore often seen on the walls of Wat Xieng Thong. It was made from high-quality handwoven silk and adorned with detailed gold and silver embroidery, along with diamonds and gemstones.
The sleeves followed the traditional Luang Prabang style, keeping the shirt authentic while giving it a unique and refined appearance.
The last set, “12 Zodiacs,” was inspired by the animals painted on the walls of temples in Luang Prabang. For this design, Khounphithack and his team wove the fabric in a sunflower pattern.
It features 12 colored fabrics woven into the base of the cloth, with each of the 12 zodiac animals embroidered using traditional techniques. Gold and silver threads, along with patterns like square keys and long locks, created a sharp and elegant depiction of each zodiac animal.
“Every minute is priceless on the stage, so I brought these three historic and significant places as a small advertisement about Laos as it is a country with beauty and vulnerability to visit,” Khounphithack said.
Preparation and Passion Elevate Lao Silk Globally
The path to success for the one and only representative from the “Land of a Million Elephants” was not easy. He described the moment before showcasing his handicrafts to the foreign audience:
“It was very tough. I had to prepare so many things, like designing patterns, preparing clothes for the fashion show, shooting a lookbook, and presenting my work in English,” he emphasized.
Despite the hard work, he never forgot the reason he started this journey: to support local products and promote tourism in a way that preserves their uniqueness and ensures they remain sustainable over time.
As the competition was very “intense”, Khounphithack started thinking about the best technique he could use for his work. He came up with a 3D technique that could bring a lively dimension to the patterns. He also blended ancient Lao embroidery with advanced European techniques.
Khounphithack ultimately believed that understanding the judges’ tastes was key to winning the competition.
By using soft-toned colors, he aimed to make the patterns more accessible, helping the judges more easily grasp the essence of Lao culture and appreciate the fabric’s texture.
“The pattern, I tried to adapt it in an international way. It might look simple and common in Laos, but for foreigners, I made it eye-catching for them,” he said.
“Lao silk handicraft reflects not only a tradition but also how people live, how they dress, and how they practice their way of life. It reflects the kind of living that Lao people value and their prosperity in art and culture.”
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/09/24/young-luang-prabang-artisan-wins-global-award-for-lao-embroidery/
Rising Number of Lao Tourists Choose Malaysia as Travel Ties Strengthen
Malaysia is seeing a notable uptick in visitors from Laos this year, pointing to a growing interest among Lao travelers in regional destinations.
According to data from Malaysia’s official tourism statistics, 14,733 Lao citizens visited the country in the first six months of 2025, placing the figure just shy of the total 18,886 recorded for the whole of 2024.
The increase comes amid broader efforts by Malaysia to revitalize its tourism sector.
On 28 September, the government officially launched Visit Malaysia 2026, a long-term campaign aimed at promoting sustainable and inclusive tourism development. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim led the launch in Melaka, a city steeped in colonial and maritime history and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The campaign’s focus, officials say, goes beyond simply attracting more tourists. It places emphasis on tourism as a tool for economic empowerment, social development, and cultural preservation, with plans to invest in training, innovation, and community-based tourism initiatives.
Familiar Experiences in New Settings
For Lao travelers, Malaysia offers a mix of the familiar and the new. In Melaka, river cruises, such as the Jeti Paya Lebar Eco Cruise or Cruise Sungai Linggi, can evoke memories of boat rides along the Mekong in Luang Prabang. Occasionally, crocodiles can even be spotted along the riverbanks.
Melaka’s Dutch and Heritage Trail is another highlight. The route passes through centuries-old colonial sites, including Portuguese forts and Dutch and British administrative buildings.
For a panoramic view of the city, the Taming Sari Tower rises 80 meters above the ground, offering a full 360-degree look at Melaka’s mix of modern development and historic architecture.
At night, the Jonker Street Night Market draws crowds with its street food, artisan goods, and lively atmosphere, an experience not unlike the night markets in Laos.
Malaysia’s 2026 Tourism Vision
Looking ahead to 2026, Malaysia’s tourism strategy places strong emphasis on empowering women, youth, and marginalized communities through training and employment opportunities in the tourism sector. The government also plans to support innovators, entrepreneurs, and start-ups, helping them turn ideas into real-world solutions and grow their businesses.
Investments will target digital education, with the goal of narrowing the digital divide for rural communities, youth, and post-conflict areas. Tourism initiatives will also aim to strengthen local economies by supporting micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises, ensuring that the benefits of tourism reach communities directly.
Cultural exchange remains a key pillar of the strategy, encouraging deeper engagement with Malaysia’s heritage through performances, culinary events, exhibitions, and interactive experiences. These programs are designed to preserve traditions while offering visitors more meaningful and authentic travel experiences.
Taken together, these efforts reflect Malaysia’s ambition to build a tourism sector that is sustainable, inclusive, and culturally rich, positioning the country as a leading destination in the region while uplifting local communities and preserving its diverse heritage.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/10/02/rising-number-of-lao-tourists-choose-malaysia-as-travel-ties-strengthen/
Laos Targets Over 43 Million Tourists By 2030
Laos aims to attract more than 43 million tourists between 2026 and 2030, Minister of Culture and Tourism Suansavanh Viyaket announced at the Party Congress on 25 September.
The target includes 21 million domestic and 22 million international visitors, with an expected revenue of USD 13 billion.
To reach these goals, the Ministry plans to upgrade and expand infrastructure at key destinations, develop new attractions, and enhance facilities along major tourism routes that connect provinces and neighboring countries.
The strategy also emphasizes improving the quality of tourist sites through partnerships between the government, local businesses, and communities. A major focus is on building the skills and capacity of tourism personnel.
In the short term, Laos is aiming to welcome 4.3 million international visitors by the end of 2025.
In the first eight months of the year, the country has welcomed over 3 million visitors, a 15 percent increase compared to the same period of last year.
According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Laos ranked 13th among the world’s fastest-growing tourism destinations in 2024, underscoring the sector’s strong growth and potential.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/09/26/laos-targets-over-43-million-tourists-by-2030/
Laos-China Railway Transported Over 15 Million Passengers Since Early 2025
The Laos-China Railway (LCR) transported 15.48 million passengers from January through 8 October this year, a 2.38 percent increase over the same period in 2024.
Cross-border travel totaled nearly 200,000 passengers, up 3.17 percent year-on-year, state media reported. The Lao section has served over 2.6 million passengers so far this year.
The railway has carried nearly 60 million total passengers across 84,000 train operations, attracting visitors from 115 countries and regions. International ridership on cross-border services has exceeded 595,000.
Daily operations in Laos have expanded from four trains at launch to 18 trains per day, substantially improving travel efficiency.
The Vientiane-Kunming service, launched in April 2023, has grown rapidly in popularity, with monthly passenger volumes along the full route surging from 600,000 to over 1.6 million.
Freight Growth and Regional Trade Expansion
Freight transport has also seen strong growth. As of September 2025, the railway handled over 67.6 million tons of cargo, including 15 million tons of cross-border shipments, according to China Railway Kunming Bureau Group Co., Ltd. The corridor now connects Laos to 19 countries and regions, facilitating bilateral trade and economic cooperation.
Major Lao exports include tropical fruits, cassava, rubber, and minerals, while imports from China encompass electronics, vehicles, solar panels, and consumer goods.
The 422-kilometer Boten-Vientiane Railway, a flagship Belt and Road Initiative project valued at USD 6 billion, has transformed Laos’s regional connectivity and established the landlocked nation as a strategic logistics hub within ASEAN.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/10/13/laos-china-railway-transported-over-15-million-passengers-since-early-2025/
Lao, North Korean Leaders Hold Historic Talks in State Visit to Pyongyang
Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith paid an official state visit to the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) this week, holding talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in a move that reaffirmed decades of diplomatic ties and marked several historic anniversaries.
The visit, which took place on 7-8 October, came at the invitation of President Kim and was timed to coincide with the 80th anniversary of the founding of the Workers’ Party of Korea (WPK).
President Thongloun’s arrival in Pyongyang was met with a grand welcome ceremony, complete with a 21-gun salute and an inspection of the guard of honour.
Over 1,000 people, including Party members, officials, armed forces personnel, and local citizens, gathered at the Pyongyang City Sports Stadium Meeting Hall to greet the Lao delegation.
Talks to Deepen Bilateral Ties
Immediately following the ceremony, the two leaders held bilateral talks at the Workers’ Party of Korea Central Committee headquarters, where they reaffirmed their commitment to deepening the relationship between the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party and the Workers’ Party of Korea.
President Kim Jong Un described the Lao leader’s visit as a “profoundly historic milestone” and voiced confidence that the trip would elevate traditional relations between the two nations. He also extended his best wishes for Laos’ preparations for the 12th National Congress of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party in 2026.
President Thongloun expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality shown by the Korean leadership and people. He extended congratulations to the DPRK on the WPK’s 80th anniversary and thanked North Korea for its historical support during Laos’ revolutionary struggle and ongoing national development.
Both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation in areas such as education, cultural exchange, and Party-building efforts, while maintaining regular exchanges at various leadership levels. The leaders also held frank discussions on regional and international issues of mutual concern, in a gesture underscoring their ideological and diplomatic alignment.
Timed with Key Diplomatic Anniversaries
The visit not only celebrated the WPK’s founding but also marked the 60th anniversary of the first meeting between Lao revolutionary leader Kaysone Phomvihane and DPRK founder Kim Il Sung. Additionally, this year commemorates the 50th anniversary of the establishment of formal diplomatic ties between Laos and North Korea in 1974.
President Kim later hosted a state banquet in honour of President Thongloun and the Lao delegation. The group also visited important landmarks around Pyongyang, further strengthening mutual understanding and cultural ties.
International Spotlight on DPRK
Thongloun’s visit came amid heightened international attention on North Korea, as Pyongyang prepares for what is widely expected to be a large-scale military parade on 10 October . South Korean military sources have suggested the parade could take place at night, involving tens of thousands of personnel in a high-profile display of military strength.
Although the Lao state media confirmed the visit dates as October 7–8, North Korean sources had initially implied President Thongloun might attend the 10 October celebrations themselves.
While the final schedule remains partially unconfirmed, his early visit makes him the first foreign leader publicly welcomed by the DPRK for the WPK’s anniversary, a symbolic gesture that underlines Laos’ unique relationship with North Korea.
Other foreign dignitaries are expected to arrive in Pyongyang for the celebrations, including Dmitry Medvedev, Deputy Chairman of Russia’s Security Council. Reports also suggest that Vietnamese Communist Party chief To Lam may visit the DPRK later this month, potentially marking the first such trip by a Vietnamese leader in nearly two decades, though this remains unconfirmed.
A Rare Diplomatic Spotlight
At a time when North Korea remains largely cut off from much of the world, President Thongloun’s visit offers a rare look at Pyongyang’s efforts to reconnect with its oldest allies. For Laos, the trip highlights its steady approach to foreign policy.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/10/09/lao-north-korean-leaders-hold-historic-talks-in-state-visit-to-pyongyang/
New Eco-Tourism Project Aims to Protect Wildlife, Boost Jobs in Luang Namtha
Luang Namtha Province is set to transform Xang Boten village into a conservation-focused tourist destination through the newly launched Xang Boten Tourism Project, a joint initiative between the Lao government and a Chinese company.
Key features of the project include an elephant care and rehabilitation center, educational facilities, and a variety of eco-friendly accommodations such as resorts, homestays, and campsites. Visitors will also be able to enjoy adventure activities like forest treks, tree houses, and canopy bridges, as well as explore local craft shops, restaurants, and a zoo.
Designed to offer a wide range of experiences, the initiative places a strong emphasis on environmental protection and community involvement. It builds on Luang Namtha’s existing tourism strengths, with the goal of ensuring that the benefits of tourism are shared equitably with local communities.
By focusing on sustainable and immersive experiences, the province aims to position itself as a premier destination for conservation tourism.
The project is not only expected to create jobs and boost the local economy, but also supports Luang Namtha’s long-term vision of balancing natural resource conservation with community well-being.
The partnership agreement was officially signed on 19 September by representatives from the Governor’s Office of Luang Namtha, the Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism, and the Chinese firm involved in the project.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/09/25/new-eco-tourism-project-aims-to-protect-wildlife-boost-jobs-in-luang-namtha/
Young Luang Prabang Artisan Wins Global Award for Lao Embroidery
Lao handicrafts shone brightly on the global stage, as a unique embroidery technique by a young Lao artisan won the Youngest Artisan award at this year’s International Festival of Handicrafts in Kokand, Uzbekistan.
The festival, held from 19 to 21 September, brought together 250 international participants from over 70 countries. Its aim was to gather talented craftspeople to showcase their national patterns and applied arts.
One Lao artisan stood out for his remarkable contribution, and his deep-rooted connection to his heritage.
Khounphithack Latesavat, a 29-year-old business owner of Muenna Lao Silk in Luang Prabang, has a passion for incorporating Lao traditions into clothing, including the Sinh (traditional Lao skirt), shirts, and Lao shoulder scarf.
This was Khounphithack’s second attempt at the competition, having previously won second runner-up in 2022. But this time, he came prepared, both creatively and mentally, determined to elevate his work to a new level.
“I wanted to finish what I’ve started, and I’ve learned what my mistakes are, so I fixed them to win the competition this time,” he said.
Crafting Fashion from Luang Prabang’s Spirit
At the heart of Khounphithack’s designs lies his hometown: Luang Prabang.
For the fashion show round, he chose to tell a story of Laos through landmarks that represent its soul.
The first set, called “15 Naga Families”, was inspired by the Naga figures at the town’s Royal Palace, which are a symbol of faith and belief in the spiritual animal that protects the people and the city from harm.
The set was dyed with a natural pigment called klang, which gives it a deep red shade similar to the Royal Palace logo and the symbols of past Lao kings. It was then decorated with a special gold-thread embroidery technique called ding kham, where silver and gold threads are woven together to create intricate patterns.
The second set, “Kinnary-Inspired Traditional Silk Shirt,” was inspired by the Kinnary, a graceful, bird-like female figure from Lao folklore often seen on the walls of Wat Xieng Thong. It was made from high-quality handwoven silk and adorned with detailed gold and silver embroidery, along with diamonds and gemstones.
The sleeves followed the traditional Luang Prabang style, keeping the shirt authentic while giving it a unique and refined appearance.
The last set, “12 Zodiacs,” was inspired by the animals painted on the walls of temples in Luang Prabang. For this design, Khounphithack and his team wove the fabric in a sunflower pattern.
It features 12 colored fabrics woven into the base of the cloth, with each of the 12 zodiac animals embroidered using traditional techniques. Gold and silver threads, along with patterns like square keys and long locks, created a sharp and elegant depiction of each zodiac animal.
“Every minute is priceless on the stage, so I brought these three historic and significant places as a small advertisement about Laos as it is a country with beauty and vulnerability to visit,” Khounphithack said.
Preparation and Passion Elevate Lao Silk Globally
The path to success for the one and only representative from the “Land of a Million Elephants” was not easy. He described the moment before showcasing his handicrafts to the foreign audience:
“It was very tough. I had to prepare so many things, like designing patterns, preparing clothes for the fashion show, shooting a lookbook, and presenting my work in English,” he emphasized.
Despite the hard work, he never forgot the reason he started this journey: to support local products and promote tourism in a way that preserves their uniqueness and ensures they remain sustainable over time.
As the competition was very “intense”, Khounphithack started thinking about the best technique he could use for his work. He came up with a 3D technique that could bring a lively dimension to the patterns. He also blended ancient Lao embroidery with advanced European techniques.
Khounphithack ultimately believed that understanding the judges’ tastes was key to winning the competition.
By using soft-toned colors, he aimed to make the patterns more accessible, helping the judges more easily grasp the essence of Lao culture and appreciate the fabric’s texture.
“The pattern, I tried to adapt it in an international way. It might look simple and common in Laos, but for foreigners, I made it eye-catching for them,” he said.
“Lao silk handicraft reflects not only a tradition but also how people live, how they dress, and how they practice their way of life. It reflects the kind of living that Lao people value and their prosperity in art and culture.”
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/09/24/young-luang-prabang-artisan-wins-global-award-for-lao-embroidery/
Vientiane-Boten Expressway Set for Completion by 2030, Says Deputy Prime Minister
The Vientiane-Boten Expressway, linking Laos’s capital to Boten in Luang Namtha Province, is expected to be completed by 2030, Deputy Prime Minister Saleumxay Kommasith announced during a welcoming ceremony for Xu Hao, Vice Governor of China’s Yunnan Province, on 24 September in Vientiane.
Boten, located on the Laos-China border opposite the Chinese town of Mohan, will be connected to Vientiane through this major infrastructure project, which forms part of the broader Laos-China cooperation framework.
The expressway will extend from the existing Vientiane-Vang Vieng section, Laos’s first expressway, which opened in December 2020, covering 109 kilometers, onward to Luang Prabang, Oudomxay, and finally Boten.
The segment from Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang has completed its survey and preliminary design phase, while the section from Oudomxay to Boten received government approval for construction in mid-2024.
Deputy Prime Minister Saleumxay highlighted the strategic importance of the expressway in enhancing connectivity, boosting trade, and strengthening people-to-people exchanges.
Together with the Laos-China Railway, the expressway will significantly improve transport efficiency, shorten travel times, and facilitate the movement of goods and people, delivering substantial benefits to both nations.
The Vientiane-Vang Vieng section alone has reduced travel time from about 3.5 hours to just one hour, greatly enhancing tourism and commerce.
The full Vientiane-Boten Expressway will span approximately 440 kilometers and, once completed, will operate under a 50-year Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/09/25/vientiane-boten-expressway-set-for-completion-by-2030-says-deputy-prime-minister/
Vientiane Province to Upgrade Tourism Sector with USD-7-million Deluxe Hotel Project
Authorities in Vang Vieng are moving forward with plans to develop the district into a higher-end tourism destination, with a USD 7 million investment in a new 5-star hotel project.
The planned hotel will be 11 storeys high and built on a site covering 8,164 square metres in Meuangxong village, Vangvieng district.
Local officials said the development is intended to serve growing visitor numbers while also creating employment opportunities for nearby residents.
The project was developed through a joint venture between the Vientiane Provincial Planning and Investment Department and the Vientiane International Cultural and Tourism Fortune Link Company Limited.
Under the agreement, the company will have a 50-year concession to build and operate the hotel, with construction expected to take three years.
At the end of the concession period, ownership of the land and building will revert to the provincial government. The agreement also allows for an extension, provided the investor complies with all legal and regulatory requirements.
The developer is required to follow national investment and environmental regulations and to ensure the project delivers measurable benefits to the local economy.
Vang Vieng has seen increasing tourist interest in recent years. The district recorded 1.4 million visitors in 2024 and aims to attract 2 million in 2025, targeting revenue of around LAK 1,700 billion (USD 78.6 million). In addition to infrastructure upgrades, local authorities are promoting annual events like the Nang Sangkhan and Sweet Orange festivals to draw more visitors.
Known for its adventure tourism, Vang Vieng was recently listed among Asia’s top eight destinations for solo backpackers in 2025 by The Times of India
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/09/23/vientiane-province-to-upgrade-tourism-sector-with-usd-7-million-deluxe-hotel-project/
Laos–China Railway Drives Surge in Trade, Travel Across Borders
Since its launch in December 2021, the Laos-China Railway has significantly enhanced Laos’s connectivity and economic activity. The Lao section alone has transported more than 2.6 million passengers, while the entire line has served over 59 million travelers, including 580,000 cross-border passengers.
Daily train services in Laos have increased from just four at the start to 18 per day, improving convenience for both domestic and international travel. The Vientiane–Kunming service, introduced in April 2023, has quickly gained popularity. Monthly passenger traffic along the full line has grown from 600,000 at launch to over 1.6 million, indicating strong and rising demand.
Freight transport has also expanded rapidly. According to China Railway Kunming Bureau Group Co.,Ltd, by September 2025, the line had carried over 67.6 million tons of cargo, including 15 million tons of cross-border shipments.
Laos is now linked to 19 countries and regions, creating an efficient two-way trade corridor.
Major Lao exports include tropical fruits, cassava, rubber, and minerals, while Chinese exports to Laos include electronics, vehicles, solar panels, and daily essentials.
Cargo categories have grown from just a few at launch to over 3,300 types of goods, and new logistics services, including the “Lancang–Mekong Express” and China-Laos Railway + China-Europe Express. freight trains have cut delivery times to Europe to as little as 15 days.
Economic Impact and Future Plans
Looking ahead, efforts are focused on increasing train capacity, modernizing logistics, and improving cross-border services, as a golden channel.
As a key Belt and Road Initiative project, the Laos – China Railway is helping Laos transform from a “landlocked” to a “land-linked” country, connecting it more efficiently with Southeast Asia, China, and Europe.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/09/23/laos-china-railway-drives-surge-in-trade-travel-across-borders/
Laos, Timor-Leste Implement 30-Day Visa-Free Travel
Laos and Timor-Leste have implemented a 30-day visa waiver for citizens holding ordinary passports, effective 15 August. The agreement allows people of both countries to travel visa-free for up to 30 days.
The two countries first signed a visa exemption agreement covering official and diplomatic passports on 8 October 2024. They expanded the agreement in May this year to include ordinary passport holders.
On the same day in 2024, both governments also signed a long-term deal on the exchange of land and property to establish embassies in each other’s capitals, further strengthening bilateral ties.
Timor-Leste has been an observer of ASEAN since November 2022 and is set to become the bloc’s 11th member at the 47th ASEAN Summit this October in Kuala Lumpur.
The announcement was made by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who currently holds ASEAN’s 2025 Chairmanship.
In July, Laos and Belarus signed an agreement allowing citizens with national passports to travel between the two countries visa-free.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/09/22/laos-timor-leste-implement-30-day-visa-free-travel/