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Laos reopens and prepares for international tourists with few restrictions

May 12, 2022 • 2 min read

Laos is now fully reopened to foreign visitors ©Art65395/Shutterstock

It's one of Southeast Asia 's most isolated countries but after more than two years of border closures, Laos has opened up to all international tourists this week.

The landlocked country, which borders Thailand , Vietnam , Cambodia , and, China to the north, was one of the final Southeast Asian countries to welcome tourists back.

Throughout most of its border closures, foreigners were only permitted to visit Laos for essential reasons, before it cautiously reopened to tourists from select countries in January. But this week, the popular backpacking destination took a huge step forward by opening its borders to all international tourists... with some restrictions.

How to pack like a pro for a backpacking trip in 2022

Laos entry rules

If you're fully vaccinated, you'll need to present proof. You don't need a booster but you must have completed the required recommended dose of a primary vaccine schedule which usually means two doses, or in the case of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, one dose. The final required dose should have been administered at least 14 days before departure.

If you're unvaccinated or only partially vaccinated, you'll need to take a pre-departure PCR or antigen COVID-19 test within 48 hours of departure and present the negative result upon arrival.

All test and vaccine certificates must be uploaded to this mobile application before travel.

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You'll also be required to take out medical insurance that covers COVID-19 treatment, just in case you contract the virus on your trip, in which case you'd be responsible for the costs of your own medical treatment.

Children under 12 are exempt from vaccination and testing requirements.

Electronic visa applications for Laos are now open and eligible travelers can apply online. The Laos tourism board said approval usually takes about one business day, but it's still a good idea to apply well in advance of your trip.

Can tourists explore Laos without restrictions?

Before this week, tourists who visited Laos were only permitted to do so as part of a pre-booked tour and they had to stay in certified hotels. But those rules have been scrapped and tourists are free to roam places like the capital Vientiane , checking out its riverside markets and street food venders; the ancient city of Luang Prabang in the north of the country; and the backpacker resort of Vang Vieng , generally as they would have pre-pandemic.

Face masks are still required in some places and officials in some areas with higher virus activity may implement stricter curbs.

The state-run Vientiane Times newspaper said, per ABC News , that the decision to reopen Laos was based on falling virus case numbers. Deputy Health Minister Snong Thongsna confirmed the average daily number of new infections is less than 200 now, after falling from 2,000 in February.

This article was first published May 12, 2022 and updated May 12, 2022.

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Boosting Tourism in Laos: New Visa Policies, Railway Routes, and Service Enhancements

In July, Laos introduced visa exemptions for tourists from Austria, Belgium, Denmark, China, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Finland, and Greece to boost its tourism industry. Citizens of these countries can enjoy a 15-day visa-free entry into Laos.

Further, citizens of these countries can apply for a multiple-entry visa to enter Laos with the duration of the stay increased from 30 to 60 days. Thai visitors holding a “Border Pass” or “Temporary Border Pass,” an identification document used instead of a passport or ID as per agreements between two countries, can now stay in Laos for up to ten days, an extension from the previous limit of three days.

Tourism key to Laos’ economic growth

Before the pandemic, tourism accounted for 12 percent of Laos’ GDP.  Since Laos reopened its borders to international tourists in April 2022, the industry has experienced a gradual yet steady recovery, bolstered by the introduction of new passenger routes on the Lao-China Railway , which connects Kunming in China to Vientiane in Laos.

The government aims to host at least 4.6 million foreign visitors to the country this year, with just over 1 million recorded during the first three months of 2024.

Lao-China railway boosting tourism

Laos’ tourism sector has been significantly boosted by the Lao-China railway, which was inaugurated in December 2021. The 414 km railway runs between the capital Vientiane and the town of Boten on the Laos-China border.

This US$6 billion project (equivalent to one-third of Laos’ GDP) is backed by China as part of its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and is a linchpin of the deepening ties between the two countries. 

In 2023, the route has carried some 110,962 cross-border passenger trips, including 55,532 inbound passengers and 55,430 outbound passengers, in addition to transporting a cumulative 4.22 million tons of freight.

Laos upgrading tourism standards

To increase visitor arrivals, the government and stakeholders are increasing efforts to enhance the country’s tourism standards. This includes improving visitor amenities and services provided by hotels and restaurants.

The government is also investing in infrastructure to improve connectivity, particularly for road repairs. Further, tour operators are offered training programs to impart new skills to their employees to enhance their services. The programs provide a blend of classroom teaching and practical field exercises. The government also hopes this will help reduce the occurrence of illegal foreign tour guides in the country.

The visa exemptions, the strategic Lao-China Railway, and ongoing efforts to upgrade tourism standards all point towards a brighter future for the industry. With the government’s ambitious goal of attracting 4.6 million foreign visitors this year, these initiatives are crucial for sustaining the momentum and ensuring that tourism remains a key driver of Laos’ economic growth.

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Laos’ tourism boom nets 2.3 million foreign visitors in 7 months

Tourism in Laos has rebounded, with an increase of 18 per cent compared to the same period last year, generating more than US$700 million in revenue.

Siladda Souliyong

Vientiane Times

View all posts by Siladda Souliyong →

Deputy Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism Mrs Darany Phommavongsa addresses a tour guide training course on September 9. PHOTO: VIENTIANE TIMES

September 10, 2024

VIENTIANE – Tourism in Laos has rebounded, with more than 2.3 million foreign visitors coming to the country in the first seven months of this year, an increase of 18 percent compared to the same period last year, generating more than US$700 million in revenue.

Meanwhile, the number of Lao tourists exceeded 2 million people, an increase of 78 percent, generating more than US$332 million in revenue, Deputy Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism Mrs Darany Phommavongsa told attendees at the start of a national tour guide training course in Vientiane on Monday.

The course is taking place from September 9 to November 29 and has 89 participants, of whom 44 can speak English, 36 speak Thai, 10 can speak in Chinese, seven can use Korean, five speak French, four are familiar with the Vietnamese language, and one speaks Spanish.

The course aims to produce a cohort of tour guides equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills and able to demonstrate respect for Laos’ culture and the country’s many attractions, both historical and religious.

Tour guides will also receive training in ethical standards and be taught how to satisfactorily lead groups of people to various places and provide them with a high level of service.

Mrs Darany said tourism is on an upward trend this year and is making a steady recovery after the Covid pandemic.

Tourism-related businesses have gained confidence in the stability of the tourism industry and are accelerating the expansion of new markets, focusing on green tourism and greater participation by local people.

However, more qualified personnel must be provided to support the growth of tourism and address the shortage of skilled workers in this field, especially tour guides.

The training course aims to teach participants about the special attributes needed to provide an acceptable standard of service so that visitors have a good experience, are impressed, and want to return to Laos, Mrs Dalany said.

In a bid to bolster tourist numbers during Visit Laos Year 2024, the government has approved visa-free entry for tourists from certain countries and has increased the number of days that visitors from these countries can remain in Laos, with the new rules to be in force from July 1 to December 31.

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Follow our news, recent searches, laos reopens to tourists and other visitors from abroad, advertisement.

BANGKOK: The landlocked Southeast Asian nation of Laos reopened to tourists and other visitors on Monday (May 9), more than two years after it imposed tight restrictions to fight COVID-19 .

Thipphakone Chanthavongsa, head of the government’s agency for controlling COVID-19, announced on Saturday the reopening date, the last in a three-phase plan, state news agency KPL reported. She said vaccination certificates or virus tests will still be required for Lao citizens and foreigners entering the country.

Travelers 12 years of age or older without vaccination certificates must be able to show negative rapid antigen tests taken within 48 hours of departure for Laos.

As part of the easing of restrictions, entertainment venues including karaoke parlors will be able to reopen, but must comply with COVID-19 control regulations. All border crossings were reopened.

The country hosted a record 4.79 million foreign visitors in 2019 before the pandemic began. The number fell to 886,400 in 2020, the latest year for which statistics are available.

The website of the state-controlled Vientiane Times newspaper quoted Deputy Health Minister Snong Thongsna as saying the decision to reopen the country was based on the falling number of COVID-19 cases in Laos and worldwide.

It added that the average number of new infections reported daily has declined from almost 2,000 in February and March to less than 200 now.

Laos, with an estimated 7.7 million people, is one of Asia’s poorest nations. It has had 208,535 confirmed coronavirus cases, including 749 deaths, since the pandemic began, according to the health ministry.

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• Research & Analysis

Laos launches visit Laos year 2024 tourism campaign ahead of ASEAN chairmanship

In November, the Government of Laos formally introduced its Visit Laos Year 2024 tourism campaign to attract as many as 4.6 million tourists and generate $712 million in revenue next year. The program includes  at least 75 scheduled cultural activities and traditional festivals on both nationwide and local levels. Laos authorities have also improved facilities and technical support for travelers interested in hiking, camping, ziplining, climbing, and ballooning.  Ahead of the 2024 campaign, Laos has made efforts to strengthen tourism cooperation with other countries. In March, Laos signed an MOU with Cambodia to promote bilateral tourism and simplify tourist immigration procedures on their shared border. In October, Laos Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism, Suanesavanh Vignaket emphasized people-to-people exchange with Japan to complement the efforts of the Visit Laos Year 2024 campaign. Meanwhile, the new semi-high-speed railway between Vientiane and Yunnan Province in China is boosting Chinese tourism in Laos, particularly to the former royal capital and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Luang Prabang.  The 2024 tourism campaign is part of a broader 2021-2025 vision to improve the standard of tourism personnel, infrastructure, and sites in Laos. These priorities will be highlighted in the upcoming ASEAN Tourism Forum in January, with Laos’ chosen theme of sustaining ASEAN’s future with “Quality and Responsible Tourism.” 

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The rebound of lao pdr tourism at the beginning of 2023.

• 23 Mar 2023

The reopening of Lao PDR’s borders drew 1.3 million international tourists to the country in 2022. Key source markets were Thailand, Vietnam, China, South Korea, and the United States . With positive signs of tourism recovery, the country is expecting  1.4 million international visitors in 2023, including an estimated 368,000 Chinese arrivals. Declaring 2023-2024 the “Lao Tourism Year” , the government is determined to speed up the completion of major infrastructure projects such as roads and airports to facilitate tourism while also tackling a labor shortage in the tourism and hospitality industry. This step will lead to Laos PDR hosting the ASEAN Tourism Forum in January 2024. In fact, it was the only Southeast Asian country that made The Telegraph ’s top 20 destinations travelers must visit this year .

To further boost tourism, Lao PDR continues to offer visa exemption s to tourists from 16 countries. Citizens of ASEAN member countries get a visa-free entry for up to 30 days, while citizens of Japan, South Korea, Switzerland, Luxembourg, Russia, and Mongolia are eligible for visa-free stays of up to 15 or 21 days, depending on the country. Meanwhile, Lao Airlines is restarting  direct flights  to enhance connectivity with Da Nang, Vietnam after 10 years, starting on 30 March. The airline has also been working with travel agencies in Lao PDR and Vietnam to develop travel programs for Laotians to visit Da Nang. This year, the airline will also launch new routes from Pakse to major cities in China to attract more visitors, as Pakse International Airport allows  30-day visa on arrival for several countries. Furthermore, Lao Skyway has worked to improve domestic travel connections by adding additional flights between  Vientiane and Xayaboury every Thursday morning.

China remains one of the most important markets for Lao PDR, and traveling between the two countries is now easier than ever thanks to the high-speed train that launched at the end of 2021. The 1,035-kilometer-long line, including 422km of rugged, mountainous landscapes, links Kunming in China’s Yunnan Province, and the capital of Vientiane. In its first year of operation, the train transported 8.5 million passengers and 11.2 million tons of freight .

It also significantly reduced travel times between renowned destinations in Laos PDR. It now takes just over two hours to travel from Vientiane to Luang Prabang. In the first two months of 2023, the railway attracted 417,400 passengers , an increase of 256.2 percent over the same period last year. It also set a record of  10,000 travelers per day  in the first week of March. The recent launch of the digital LCR Ticket application has also made reservations much easier for tourists. The Prime Minister of Lao PDR has requested the Ministry of Public Works and Transport to set up immigration checkpoints at train stations along the Laos-China Railway to accommodate the increasing demand for rail travel.

Regarding international cooperation, the prime ministers of Lao PDR and Cambodia recently discussed the potential to build a  high-speed railway  connecting the two countries and others in the region, aiming to enhance tourism flow through a long-term strategic partnership. The two countries also recently signed a joint tourism promotional campaign called “Two Countries, One Destination” , aiming to increase connectivity through new flights and cruises, simplify immigration procedures at border crossings, improve tourism workforce standards, encourage tourism businesses to organize travel programs to attract more Chinese tourists, and foster investment in tourism through roadshows to increase bilateral tourism.

In addition, Lao PDR is one of the target countries of the Tourism for Development Fund , which offers 10 years of sustainable tourism support from the TUI Care Foundation in partnership with UNWTO. The program amplifies Lao PDR’s potential to boost economic growth and poverty alleviation through sustainable tourism development. It will focus on building the capacity of local communities to improve their livelihoods, conserve, and regenerate nature, and create market-based solutions that benefit tourism destinations.

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Investment Milestone Celebrated in Vientiane’s Thatluang Lake Zone

On 19 August, an investment handover ceremony was held at the Pan-Asia International Laos’ headquarters in the Thatluang Lake Special Economic Zone in Vientiane. 

The ceremony marked the successful completion of the first phase of a USD-400-million investment between Laos Pan-Asia International (Forest City Project) and International Holding Hamdaoui Capital Trading Group.

International Holding Hamdaoui Capital Trading Group, a global financial services provider, brings extensive expertise in financial marketing, market research, portfolio management, and corporate expansion, among other economic services. This cooperation aims to leverage their capabilities to drive forward real estate, infrastructure, and green energy projects in Laos.

The collaboration between Laos Pan-Asia International (Forest City Project) and International Holding Hamdaoui Capital Trading Group is expected to launch new market opportunities and drive sustainable growth through new approaches.

Construction of the Pan Asia International and Forest City projects commenced on 5 November, 2019. In just under five years, the Pan Asia International Office Building 8, Residential Buildings 9 and 10, and Apartment Building 6 have reached their final heights. Similarly, Forest City Apartment Building 5 and Residential Buildings 6 and 7 have also been topped out.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/08/21/investment-milestone-celebrated-in-vientianes-thatluang-lake-zone/

The Best of Laos: Must-Visit Spots According to Lonely Planet

Laos might not be the first name that comes to mind when planning a Southeast Asian adventure, but Lonely Planet’s latest roundup proves it’s a country brimming with hidden treasures.

Often overlooked, Laos offers a variety of natural landscapes, cultural experiences, and off-the-beaten-path destinations. From ancient archaeological sites to peaceful river journeys,  Lonely Planet’s latest list  of the top ten places to visit highlighted some of the best spots to explore across Laos. According to the tourism magazine:

1. Luang Namtha : Ideal for adventures and outdoor activities. The Nam Ha National Protected Area provides opportunities for trekking, kayaking, and cultural experiences with local ethnic groups.

2. Vang Vieng : Known for its natural landscapes, Vang Vieng is perfect for tubing along the river, rock climbing, or taking in the views from a hot air balloon.

3. Plain of Jars : This archaeological site in Xieng Khouang features hundreds of large stone jars scattered across a plateau. Their origin remains a mystery, making it a fascinating place for history buffs.

4. Phongsali : Located in northern Laos, Phongsali is a quiet, off-the-beaten-path destination. Here, tourists can enjoy mountain views and see traditional life among local ethnic groups. The area is also known for its tea plantations, making it a peaceful escape from more crowded spots.

5. Luang Prabang : A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its mix of traditional temples and colonial architecture.

6. The Mekong River : Tourists can experience local life and scenic views on a slow boat journey down the Mekong. The trip can be a relaxed way to see rural Laos and visit small riverside villages.

7. Si Phan Don : Also known as the “Four Thousand Islands,” this area in southern Laos boasts a laid-back atmosphere and several local waterfalls.

8. Elephant Conservation Center : Located near Nam Tien Lake in Xayabouly Province, this center focuses on protecting Laos’ elephants. Visitors can learn about conservation efforts and observe the elephants in a natural setting.

9. Nong Khiaw : A small town surrounded by mountains and the Nam Ou River. It’s a typical spot for hiking and kayaking while exploring local villages.

10. Vieng Xai : These caves, used as a refuge during the “Secret War,” offer a look into Laos’ wartime history. Touring the caves provides insight into this period and the challenges faced by those who lived there.

Lonely Planet’s list brings Laos into focus. Each listed location offers a unique experience, from adventure and relaxation to cultural discovery.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/08/21/the-best-of-laos-must-visit-spots-according-to-lonely-planet/

Laos Launches Plan to Bring Tigers Back by 2035

The Lao government has announced the 2025-2035 National Tiger Recovery Action Plan, a major initiative developed in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry and WWF-Laos. This plan aims to restore and protect tiger populations in Laos.

The first meeting to discuss the plan took place in Vientiane on 15-16 August. The gathering included provincial forestry officials, law enforcement agencies, and international conservation organizations. Participants reviewed strategies for managing and monitoring tiger populations and explored the feasibility of reintroducing tigers to their natural habitats.

Oupakone Alounsavath, Deputy Director General of the Department of Forestry, highlighted that the plan aligns with Laos’ Wildlife Law. He emphasized that the initiative will address habitat destruction from development and strengthen Laos’ commitment to biodiversity conservation.

According to WWF-Laos, the action plan will provide a comprehensive conservation strategy focused on recovering wild tiger populations, regulating tiger farms, and combating illegal tiger trade. The plan aims to improve management practices in national protected areas and parks, with the goal of revitalizing Laos’ tiger populations.

Despite being one of 13 countries with tiger habitats, Laos has seen a significant decline in tiger numbers, primarily due to poaching and habitat loss.

In  a 2019 study , researchers claimed that tigers might now be extinct in Laos, reporting that snares have been devastating for Laos’ wildlife. These snares, often set by poachers, kill a wide range of animals, including tigers. The last confirmed sighting of tigers in Laos was in 2016, when only two individuals were recorded. These tigers have since been lost, the researchers believe.

The decline in Laos mirrors the broader struggles of the Indochinese tiger, with healthy populations now limited to Thailand, and very few remaining in China, Vietnam, and Myanmar. Despite global tiger populations showing an increase of about 40 percent since 2015, Laos has seen no such recovery, according to the study.

The research also identified the local extinction of leopards and declining populations of other predators and prey species.

While experts suggest that  tigers could potentially repopulate Laos  if snaring is controlled, current conditions remain dire.

The 2025-2035 National Tiger Recovery Action Plan represents a key step towards rewilding and restoring tiger populations to the forests of Laos, with hopes of witnessing tigers roam the country once more.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/08/19/laos-launches-plan-to-bring-tigers-back-by-2035/

Vietnam’s Investment in Laos Hits USD 5.5 Billion

Vietnamese investment in Laos has reached a total of USD 5.5 billion across 256 projects.

These figures were released on 18 August at a conference in Nghe An Province, Vietnam, which reviewed the progress of the Vietnam-Laos cooperation plan for 2024 and set strategic directions for the 2021-2025 bilateral cooperation agreement.

Since 2021, Laos has granted investment licenses for Vietnamese projects totaling USD 869.9 million. In the first half of 2024, Laos approved six new Vietnamese projects, amounting to USD 339 million. These projects span sectors such as mining, electricity, and health care, according to Phet Phomphiphak, Lao Minister of Planning and Investment and chairman of the Laos-Vietnam Cooperation Committee.

The disbursed capital by Vietnamese enterprises in Laos has reached approximately USD 2.8 billion.

Trade between the two countries has also surged, with bilateral trade hitting a 11.1 percent increase from the previous year.

Both nations are actively pursuing new cooperative projects, including the Vientiane-Hanoi Expressway and the Vientiane-Tha Khek-Tan Ap-Vung Ang Railway. They are also focusing on the development of Vung Ang Ports I, II, and III.

Phet Phomphiphak highlighted the importance of improved cooperation between Vietnamese and Lao ministries to better manage investments, resolve issues, and oversee joint ventures. Vietnamese Deputy Minister of Planning and Investment Tran Quoc Phuong also mentioned the proactive coordination between both countries despite global challenges.

Looking ahead, Vietnam and Laos plan to focus on implementing high-level agreements and advancing infrastructure projects, with a strong emphasis on human resource development and innovations in high-tech manufacturing, mining, and e-commerce.

Both nations are also committed to boosting bilateral trade, enhancing connectivity, and improving energy cooperation by connecting power grids between Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/08/19/vietnams-investment-in-laos-hits-usd-5-5-billion/

Laos Launches New Job Search Website to Address Labor Market Challenges

On 14 August, Laos unveiled a new job search website, developed by the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare (MOLSW) with support from the ILO-China Partnership Program. The initiative, first launched in 2023, is part of the “Project to Strengthen Skills Development in Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar through South-South and Tripartite Cooperation,” and aims to tackle ongoing labor market issues.

Laos has faced economic and societal challenges due to a low minimum wage, which has not kept pace with inflation or the depreciating kip. Despite recent wage adjustments, many businesses struggle to meet wage demands, leading to  labor shortages  and a trend of workers seeking opportunities abroad.

To address these challenges, MOLSW, in collaboration with an enterprise partner, launched the website to improve labor market efficiency. The site, managed by the Department of Employment, provides comprehensive information on job regulations, services, legislation, and freelance opportunities, making it a valuable resource for job seekers.

The new website launch follows a  job festival  held in Vientiane on 22 March, where 1,800 positions across 56 companies were advertised, highlighting the country’s struggle with workforce retention. The new website is designed to enhance job accessibility, providing tools and resources for users in both central and local areas.

By improving job placement and offering access to opportunities domestically and internationally—particularly in countries like Thailand, South Korea, and Japan—the website is expected to boost employment rates and support economic growth.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/08/16/laos-launches-new-job-search-website-to-address-labor-market-challenges/

Laos Marks 74th Mass Media Day with Focus on Digital Media Challenges, AI Integration

On 13 August, Laos celebrated the 74th Anniversary of Mass Media and Publishing Day with a series of discussions aimed at examining the evolving role of media in the country. The events, which included meetings and seminars, addressed key issues such as combating fake news, the impact of social media, and the leveraging of artificial intelligence in the modern newsroom.

In preparation for the event, the Ministry of Culture, Information, and Tourism (MCIT) along with the Lao Journalists Association hosted a seminar on 8 August focused on combating misinformation on social media, with aims to cultivate a more informed press corps capable of effectively countering fake news. The goal was to develop a more informed press corps capable of effectively countering fake news. Deputy Minister Phosy Keomanivong, who attended the seminar, emphasized the need for better public-private sector cooperation and closer ties with international media to attract investment and maintain stability in the media sector.

Prior to this seminar, the MCIT organized another forum on 2 August, hosted by the LJA and MCIT with support from the European Union and the International Care Organization, discussions included the role of artificial intelligence in journalism, including AI’s potential in news verification, translation, and content creation, aiming to equip journalists with necessary skills and strategies for digital monetization

Speaking at the forum was Savankhone Razmountry, President of the Lao Journalists’ Association (LJA), who acknowledged the dual nature of social media. While it enhances the speed of information dissemination, it also brings risks related to the spread of misinformation. 

The LJA president urged Lao journalists to stay updated with modern media systems, verify sources, and ensure alignment with government interests.

Other speakers featured Aditta Kittikhoun, Senior Partner at  RDK Group , who highlighted the critical need to grasp Facebook’s algorithms, given the platform’s dominant role in distributing news in Laos. He pointed out that although Lao media uses Facebook for distribution, the platform also presents significant competition.

“If you want to use AI tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, or Claude effectively, first understand the primary AI impacting you daily—Facebook’s evolving algorithms. For media to embrace digitalization, they must think like Facebook, aligning with its machine learning logic that captures attention through user data,” he said. “Though many see Facebook as a tech company, it’s more accurately Laos’s largest media company. While Lao media relies on Facebook for distribution, it’s also their biggest competitor.”

Adding depth to Aditta’s emphasis on AI, Thanousone Phonamart, President of the Lao ICT Association, explored the foundational technologies behind AI and their applications on an international scale. Bounheng Southichack, Managing Director of Lao Youth Radio, provided insights into how various AI tools are being integrated into different aspects of newsroom operations, enhancing efficiency and content creation. Minaxay Philavong, Director General of the Lao National Internet Center, discussed the legal frameworks surrounding fake news, emphasizing the challenges and responsibilities that come with regulating information in the digital age.

Somsavath Phongsa, Director General of the Mass Media Department at the MTCI, noted the significant impact of social media on information dissemination, leading to misinformation and public confusion. He emphasized the need for the media to address these challenges by improving practices and educating the public.

The mass media director also stated that many media professionals in Laos are still grappling with challenges such as the effective use of digital tools and understanding target audiences. He suggested improving human resources to meet the demands of the digital era and highlighted the advantages of digital media, including its speed and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional media.

The forum concluded with a call for media professionals to uphold high standards, continually expand their skills, and adhere to media laws and regulations.

Media and Publishing Day is a significant occasion for the media, publishing, and distribution sectors, highlighting their essential contributions to the nation’s progress. Throughout the journey toward independence and the development of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party has recognized the crucial role of information in driving social and economic advancement. In this context, media, publishing, and distribution—particularly through the Party’s newspaper and various forms of print and digital media—have played a vital role in promoting national unity and supporting the country’s development goals.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/08/15/laos-marks-74th-mass-media-day-with-focus-on-digital-media-challenges-ai-integration/

Get Ready to Drive: Laos Launches New ‘DoT Smart’ App

To enhance road safety and streamline driver’s license preparation, the Lao government has unveiled the DoT Smart App, an innovative mobile application designed to transform the driving test process across the country.

This initiative, launched under the theme “Improve the Driver’s License System in Laos,” is a collaborative effort funded by the United Nations Road Safety Fund (UNRSF) and supported by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) and the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP).

The project, which commenced in January 2022 and ended in June this year, has been approved by Laos’ Ministry of Public Works and Transport through a formal agreement with UNRSF.

The  DoT Smart App  is poised to revolutionize how driving test candidates prepare for their exams. The app offers a host of features designed to assist users in their preparation, including access to traffic knowledge online, practice with simulated tests, the ability to book test dates, and receive instant results. Additionally, the app will send notifications for driver’s license expiration, ensuring that users remain compliant with driving regulations.

To ensure the app’s effectiveness, the ministry of transport has implemented an E-driving system to assess the accuracy and efficiency of practical driving tests.

Savannakhet Province has been selected as the pilot area for this new system, providing valuable insights into its performance before a broader rollout.

The introduction of the DoT Smart App is expected to ease the process of obtaining a driver’s license, making it more accessible and efficient. By providing comprehensive resources and practical tools, the app aims to not only enhance individual preparation but also contribute to broader traffic safety goals, reducing accidents and fatalities on Lao roads.

As the pilot program in Savannakhet unfolds, the Lao government anticipates a gradual expansion of the app’s use, with the ultimate goal of widespread adoption across the country.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/08/14/get-ready-to-drive-laos-launches-new-dot-smart-app/

New Phase Boosts Laos-China Clean Energy Project

To advance regional clean energy collaboration, Laos and CGI Energy Technology Co., Ltd. have signed an agreement to launch Phase II of the Northern Clean Energy Connection Project. 

The ceremony , held in Vientiane on 8 August aimed to highlight both parties’ commitment to the “One Belt, One Road” initiative and to enhance their strategic energy partnership.

Laos’ Deputy Prime Minister Saleumxay Kommasith and the Chinese Ambassador to Laos, Fang Hong, witnessed the signing. 

The agreement marks a significant step in expanding Laos’ clean energy infrastructure, with a focus on integrating wind, solar, and water storage energy solutions across three northern provinces: Oudomxay, Phongsaly, and Luang Namtha.

Phase II builds on the initial phase of the project, which saw the deployment of solar energy capacity. Under the new agreement, CGI Energy will advance solar energy development with a target of 580 MW in Luang Namtha and 420 MW in Oudomxay.

Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Energy and Mine, Thongphat Inthavong, highlighted the project’s importance in strengthening the relationship between northern Laos and southern China. He further stressed the role of the initiative in promoting sustainable, green energy solutions and reducing carbon emissions in the region.

Phase II is set to strengthen the Laos-China energy partnership and advance regional clean energy efforts.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/08/13/new-phase-boosts-laos-china-clean-energy-project/

Laos to Establish Tug-of-War as National Sport Under New Leadership

Laos’ Tug-of-War Federation is set to revive the sport under new leadership, with plans to elevate it nationally and increase its regional presence in the coming year.

At a press conference on 6 August, the federation unveiled its new management team, led by former Minister to the Prime Minister’s Office, Alounkeo Kittikhoun, with backing from the Ministry of Education and Sports.

The newly appointed team will oversee key aspects of the sport, including fundraising, organizing competitions, marketing, and building international relations. Alounkeo also mentioned plans to develop a comprehensive manual on tug-of-war rules and competition procedures. This guide will be distributed in schools to promote the sport in schools, to increase student participation.

The immediate priority for the team is to prepare a group of strong competitors for a tug-of-war contest in Thailand next month. Additionally, they plan to organize a national-level tug-of-war event in Laos later this year.

Deputy Minister of Education and Sports Kingmano Phommahaxay expressed confidence in the new leadership. He emphasized the importance of working with international and regional organizations to boost the sport’s popularity.

Looking ahead, the federation aims to include tug-of-war in the National Games in Vientiane Capital in 2025 and participate in the Southeast Asia Games hosted by Thailand.

Tug-of-war was once part of the Olympic Games but has since been removed. Established in 2016, the Lao Tug-of-War Federation has seen previous success in regional competitions, including a third-place finish at the ASEAN Tug-of-War Championship in Pattaya, Thailand.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/08/09/laos-to-establish-tug-of-war-as-national-sport-under-new-leadership/

Laos Welcomes Over 2 Million Visitors in First Half of 2024

Laos has seen a surge in tourism during the first six months of Visit Laos Year 2024, with over 2.1 million tourists visiting the country, marking a 26 percent increase in visitors compared to the same period in 2023.

The latest figures from the Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism (MICT) show the primary source markets for Lao tourism remain consistent with previous years. 

Thailand leads the way, contributing 680,153 visitors, or 32.25 percent of the total. Vietnam follows with 512,042 visitors, making up 24.28 percent, and China is close behind with 510,083 tourists, accounting for 24.18 percent of all arrivals. South Korea also made a significant contribution, with 134,246 visitors representing 6.36 percent of the total. These four countries together comprise an overwhelming 87 percent of all tourists to Laos.

On the Western front, the United States sent 37,752 tourists, accounting for 1.79 percent of the total, while France contributed 28,814 tourists (1.37 percent), and the United Kingdom sent 24,430 visitors (1.11 percent). 

Other notable sources include Russia, Japan, Germany, Cambodia, and Australia, each contributing less than 1 percent of the total. Collectively, these eight nationalities make up just 7.53 percent of all tourist arrivals.

To support continued growth in tourism for the second half of the year, MICT organized an  intensive two-month training course , from 6 May to 19 July, to raise the standards of Lao tour guides to meet ASEAN benchmarks. The course combined theoretical and practical sessions to enhance their qualifications, insights, and skills, with a focus on multilingualism and professionalism to better serve tourists.

In July, the UK-based travel guide website Lonely Planet named Luang Prabang Province as one of the seven  best places to visit in Southeast Asia for 2024 . The recognition came due to the city’s dedication to preserving its ancient temples and spiritual heritage.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/08/08/laos-welcomes-over-2-million-visitors-in-first-half-of-2024/

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