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DW
8 hours ago
- Business
- DW
Can tourism help Laos escape poverty? – DW – 06/03/2025
Laos is one of Southeast Asia's poorest countries. But it most-visited city Luang Prabang is thriving, thanks to tourism. Can the rest of the country follow its lead? Luang Prabang, in the north of Laos, is experiencing something of an economic boom. When the author of this article last visited in 2012, the city's central street and roadway, Sisavangvong Road, did not have many foreign tourists, and most of Westerners were backpackers just passing through to either Thailand or Vietnam. The hospitality scene felt limited. But things are different today. Handicraft markets have popped up at the south end of the now-bustling road, near tight alleys leading from the Wat Pa Phai Buddhist temple. Further down Sisavangvong, many international travelers and tourists can be seen dining and drinking in quirky bars and restaurants. Even the adjacent streets have improved, with fancy eateries, cocktail bars, and travel agents ready to serve its international clientele. The city and the surrounding province attracted over 2 million visitors last year Image: Tommy Walker/DW Official figures show a 162% increase in visitors year over year as of April 2025. Luang Prabang has also been named by Lonely Planet as Asia's top place to visit for 2025. Thousands of families escape poverty in Luang Prabang The Laotian province aimed for 900,000 visitors last year — it got over 2 million, generating some $560 million (€491 million) in revenue. Thanks to the money flowing into the city, officials say that over 16,000 families have moved out of poverty, which is 98.3% of the city's total population. In March this year, Mayor Viengthong Hatsachan said improvements to the infrastructure, including roads, transport and utilities, have made Luang Prabang poverty free . Nearly all of Luang Prabang's population are no longer considered poor Image: Tommy Walker/DW In Laos, the criteria for being free from poverty include stable employment, a permanent home, secondary-level education and access to basic health care, clean water and energy. Laos pressured by inflation, public debt But Laos, with its 7.8 million inhabitants living mostly in rural environments across a territory that is bigger than the UK, still struggles to raise living standards. As of 2023, official data shows that nearly 17% of its families were living in poverty, but assessments by international organizations suggest the actual rate could be higher when considering factors like access to education and health care, among others. The Southeast Asian country is ruled by a single party, the Lao People's Revolutionary Party, and UN benchmarks classify it as one of the world's 44 Least Developed Countries (LCDs). Laos economy struggles amid inflation and falling investment To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video And last year it was reported Laos had a total public debt of $13.8 billion, which was 108% of the country's GDP. It's currency, Lao Kip, also depreciated to record lows against the US dollar and Thai Baht, making it harder to pay back any debt. The country is heavily reliant on agriculture, with a large proportion of the population working the fields or engaged at other points of the food production chain. Laos has also invested heavily in hydropower, aiming to become the "battery" of supplying electricity to countries in Southeast Asia. However, these investments have been costly, with Laos deep in debt with Chinese energy firms. On the other hand, thanks to Chinese investment, Laos now boasts a high-speed train line connecting its capital Vientiane to the Chinese border, and there are also discussions of linking Vientiane with Cambodia. Can Laos use tourism to get rich? The rise of Laos' ancient capital Luang Prabang brings hope that the entire country could follow in its footsteps and boost tourism earnings to alleviate poverty. But analysts warn that not all visitors bring new business to the local population. For example, over a million Chinese tourists visited Laos in 2024. However, many of those are so-called "zero-dollar" tour groups that pay low rates and only spend money in Chinese-associated businesses, almost entirely bypassing the local economy. "While the new high-speed railway connecting China to Laos has increased arrivals, it has not translated into meaningful economic benefits for the local Lao population," says Professor Worrawoot Jumlongnark from Thailand's Mahasarakham University. Laos: A country in the grip of the Chinese? To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video For others, like Inthy Danesavanh, chairman at the Inthira Group and an eco-tourism specialist in Laos, boosting tourism is a key piece of the puzzle, in addition to improving agriculture. "Luang Prabang province is along the line of the Laos-Chinese railway, and we can focus more on agriculture, and exports, and the railway can export to the huge Chinese market and this can bring benefit to the local people," he said. "And I strongly believe in tourism because Laos is surrounded by five countries with bigger populations. It's more than 200 million tourists a year traveling around Laos, next to Laos. I think tourism, agriculture, and logistics, focusing on good roads and access, I think the three sectors have a future for Laos to get rid of this poverty," he told DW. Edited by: Darko Janjevic
DW
10 hours ago
- Business
- DW
Can all of Laos rise from poverty like its Prabang City? – DW – 06/03/2025
Luang Prabang in northern Laos used tourism to become virtually free of poverty. But Laos is still one of the poorest countries in Southeast Asia. Luang Prabang, in the north of Laos, is experiencing something of an economic boom. When the author of this article last visited in 2012, the city's central street and roadway, Sisavangvong Road, did not have many foreign tourists, and most of Westerners were backpackers just passing through to either Thailand or Vietnam. The hospitality scene felt limited. But things are different today. Handicraft markets have popped up at the south end of the now-bustling road, near tight alleys leading from the Wat Pa Phai Buddhist temple. Further down Sisavangvong, many international travelers and tourists can be seen dining and drinking in quirky bars and restaurants. Even the adjacent streets have improved, with fancy eateries, cocktail bars, and travel agents ready to serve its international clientele. The city and the surrounding province attracted over 2 million visitors last year Image: Tommy Walker/DW Official figures show a 162% increase in visitors year over year as of April 2025. Luang Prabang has also been named by Lonely Planet as Asia's top place to visit for 2025. Thousands of families escape poverty in Luang Prabang The Laotian province aimed for 900,000 visitors last year — it got over 2 million, generating some $560 million (€491 million) in revenue. Thanks to the money flowing into the city, officials say that over 16,000 families have moved out of poverty, which is 98.3% of the city's total population. In March this year, Mayor Viengthong Hatsachan said improvements to the infrastructure, including roads, transport and utilities, have made Luang Prabang poverty free . Nearly all of Luang Prabang's population are no longer considered poor Image: Tommy Walker/DW In Laos, the criteria for being free from poverty include stable employment, a permanent home, secondary-level education and access to basic health care, clean water and energy. Laos pressured by inflation, public debt But Laos, with its 7.8 million inhabitants living mostly in rural environments across a territory that is bigger than the UK, still struggles to raise living standards. As of 2023, official data shows that nearly 17% of its families were living in poverty, but assessments by international organizations suggest the actual rate could be higher when considering factors like access to education and health care, among others. The Southeast Asian country is ruled by a single party, the Lao People's Revolutionary Party, and UN benchmarks classify it as one of the world's 44 Least Developed Countries (LCDs). Laos economy struggles amid inflation and falling investment To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video And last year it was reported Laos had a total public debt of $13.8 billion, which was 108% of the country's GDP. It's currency, Lao Kip, also depreciated to record lows against the US dollar and Thai Baht, making it harder to pay back any debt. The country is heavily reliant on agriculture, with a large proportion of the population working the fields or engaged at other points of the food production chain. Laos has also invested heavily in hydropower, aiming to become the "battery" of supplying electricity to countries in Southeast Asia. However, these investments have been costly, with Laos deep in debt with Chinese energy firms. On the other hand, thanks to Chinese investment, Laos now boasts a high-speed train line connecting its capital Vientiane to the Chinese border, and there are also discussions of linking Vientiane with Cambodia. Can Laos use tourism to get rich? The rise of Laos' ancient capital Luang Prabang brings hope that the entire country could follow in its footsteps and boost tourism earnings to alleviate poverty. But analysts warn that not all visitors bring new business to the local population. For example, over a million Chinese tourists visited Laos in 2024. However, many of those are so-called "zero-dollar" tour groups that pay low rates and only spend money in Chinese-associated businesses, almost entirely bypassing the local economy. "While the new high-speed railway connecting China to Laos has increased arrivals, it has not translated into meaningful economic benefits for the local Lao population," says Professor Worrawoot Jumlongnark from Thailand's Mahasarakham University. Laos: A country in the grip of the Chinese? To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video For others, like Inthy Danesavanh, chairman at the Inthira Group and an eco-tourism specialist in Laos, boosting tourism is a key piece of the puzzle, in addition to improving agriculture. "Luang Prabang province is along the line of the Laos-Chinese railway, and we can focus more on agriculture, and exports, and the railway can export to the huge Chinese market and this can bring benefit to the local people," he said. "And I strongly believe in tourism because Laos is surrounded by five countries with bigger populations. It's more than 200 million tourists a year traveling around Laos, next to Laos. I think tourism, agriculture, and logistics, focusing on good roads and access, I think the three sectors have a future for Laos to get rid of this poverty," he told DW. Edited by: Darko Janjevic
The Star
27-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
Khammuan province celebrates Laos' historic year with ambition and action
VIENTIANE: The year 2025 is a time of pride and reflection for Laos, as the country celebrates the 70th anniversary of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party, the 50th anniversary of the Lao PDR, and the 105th birth anniversary of President Kaysone Phomvihane. Located in the geographic heart of Laos, Khammuan province is honouring these milestones not only with celebration, but with concrete progress. In a recent interview, Governor Vanxay Fongsavanh shared how the province is transforming national pride into lasting development by creating jobs, attracting investment and showcasing its natural beauty to both locals and the world. Situated in central Laos, where National Roads 13 and 12 intersect, Khammuan has become a vital logistics hub—connecting provinces and neighbouring countries alike. Under its current five-year socio-economic development plan, the province is focusing on three priority sectors: agriculture and forestry, energy and mining, and tourism and services. 'We're building on what makes Khammuan strong,' said Governor Vanxay. 'By focusing on our natural resources and strategic location, we are driving real development.' One of the province's flagship developments is the Asia Potash International Investment project, a large-scale foreign enterprise focused on potash fertiliser production and the development of a smart industrial park. The project is Chinese-owned. According to the company, it currently employs about 5,000 local workers and 2,000 foreign nationals. It plans to hire an additional 1,500 labourers. 'The plant produces around three million tonnes of potash a year,' the Governor said. 'It's a major contributor to the economy of Khammuan province and to national development.' Meanwhile, agro-processing industries are on the rise—turning local crops into high-value products and drawing strong interest from domestic and foreign investors. Several companies have already begun surveys and pilot operations. 'We're actively promoting agro-processing,' the Governor said. 'These ventures are helping to diversify our economy and create rural employment.' Khammuan is making concerted efforts to create a business-friendly environment. The provincial administration is easing land access, addressing bureaucratic hurdles and assisting investors with local workforce recruitment through community engagement. 'Investors are coming from many countries, with China being our largest partner,' Governor Vanxay said. 'Chinese companies are investing in industry, agriculture, and tourism.' In 2024, Governor Vanxay led a trade mission to Shanghai province in China, resulting in over US$850 million in new investment through more than ten signed Memoranda of Understanding. The province aims to expand its investment promotion efforts to other regions of China this year. One tangible result of this partnership is the recently opened Khammuan International Hospital, a Chinese-funded facility that strengthens healthcare services for both residents and foreign workers. Tourism continues to be one of Khammuan's most promising sectors. From dramatic limestone caves to pristine waterfalls, the province boasts a wealth of natural and cultural treasures. According to Governor Vanxay, Khammuan has identified 210 potential tourist sites, with 23 already open to visitors. A new attraction, Khun Khong Lang Lake, is set to open in June and is expected to draw increasing numbers of both Lao and foreign tourists. Another emerging highlight is Phou Pha Marn, developed by Green Discovery led by eco-tourism pioneer Inthy Deuansavanh. Nestled among striking karst landscapes, this site offers adventure experiences such as zip-lining, canopy walks, rock climbing, and hiking—all designed to showcase the landscape while preserving its natural integrity. 'Our province is rich in natural beauty and culture,' said Governor Vanxay. 'We're proud to share that through festivals, cultural events, and responsible tourism.' As Laos marks a year of national reflection, Khammuan stands out as a province not only celebrating its heritage but also shaping the country's future. 'This year, Laos is celebrating three historic occasions. Khammuan has been preparing and intensifying efforts to create even greater successes to mark these meaningful days,' Governor Vanxay said. - Vientiane Times/ANN
Barnama
20-05-2025
- Business
- Barnama
Tops News Headlines In Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand & Vietnam : May 20
President Prabowo Subianto on Monday welcomed the launch of new flight routes connecting Bangkok and Phuket to Surabaya and Medan saying the increased air connectivity would help strengthen economic ties and boost two-way tourism. Rights activists and historians gathered at the House of Representatives complex in Senayan, Jakarta, on Monday to demand lawmakers reject the government's controversial bid to rewrite Indonesian history, warning it could whitewash the nation's darkest chapters and serve the political interests of President Prabowo Subianto and past regimes. LAOS FOR NEW LAO PARTY LEADERSHIP -- VIENTIANE TIMES The Lao People's Revolutionary Party held a meeting on Monday to prepare for the 12th National Party Congress, which will take place next year to elect a new party leadership to lead the country from 2026 to 2030. FIRM TO DEVELOP SKILLED GAMING WORKERS -- VIENTIANE TIMES Laos is teaming up with a United States-based gaming firm, AA Slots, to develop skilled technicians for the gaming industry. The partnership aims to transform Laos into a production and distribution centre of electronic gaming equipment in Southeast Asia. MYANMAR HONEY EXPORTS HIT OVER 200,000 METRIC TONNES -- THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR Myanmar exported 236.9 metric tonnes of honey worth RM1.5 million (US$355,000) in April. Domestic honey production is estimated at about 4,000 metric tonnes annually, with 60 percent being exported while the remainder is for local consumption. MAJOR IMPORTER OF MYANMAR RICE -- THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR China imported over 61,500 metric tonnes of rice and broken rice in April, making it the major rice importer from Myanmar. The country exported 2.48 million metric tonnes of the commodity, earning RM4.73 billion (US$1.1 billion) in the last financial year. SINGAPORE WONG SET TO UNVEIL MAJOR CABINET CHANGES AS 4G TEAM, NEW FACES STEP UP -- THE STRAITS TIMES Fourth-generation (4G) ministers are expected to take over hefty portfolios held by the 3G in the upcoming Cabinet reshuffle, which is also set to bring new blood into the ranks of government. MALONE LAM CHARGED IN US WITH HEADING UP CRYPTOCURRENCY CRIME RING THAT STOLE MILLIONS -- CNA US authorities have charged Singaporean Malone Lam with heading up a 13-member crime ring that allegedly stole hundreds of millions of dollars of cryptocurrency. THAILAND 1. THAILAND DEFENDS CASINO PLAN, EYES LAS VEGAS-STYLE RESORTS DESPITE "GREY" NATION FEARS -- THE NATION Deputy Finance Minister dismisses criticism as global entertainment giants express interest in ambitious project. 2. BOI APPROVES RAFT OF NEW INCENTIVES TO SUPPORT SMEs -- BANGKOK POS The Board of Investment (BoI) has approved new measures to better support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which are facing tough competition and the impact of US President Donald Trump's stiff tariffs. VIETNAM RANKED NINTH BEST ART, CULTURE CITY -- VIETNAMPLUS Time Out magazine, based in the United Kingdom, has ranked Hanoi ninth among the world's 20 greatest cities for art and culture in 2025. Paris, Florence, and Edinburgh took the top three spots. Hanoi has been recognised as the most affordable city for art and culture. GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE TAKING SHAPE IN HO CHI MINH -- VIETNAMPLUS Vietnam's KOGI Group, Japan's Mazda Oil Corporation, and several investors from the Middle East have signed a deal worth RM26 billion (US$6 billion) to develop green energy infrastructure. This project will include an oil refinery, a storage complex, and a plant for green engine components, all located in Ho Chi Minh City. -- BERNAMA BERNAMA provides up-to-date authentic and comprehensive news and information which are disseminated via BERNAMA Wires; BERNAMA TV on Astro 502, unifi TV 631 and MYTV 121 channels and BERNAMA Radio on FM93.9 (Klang Valley), FM107.5 (Johor Bahru), FM107.9 (Kota Kinabalu) and FM100.9 (Kuching) frequencies. Follow us on social media : Facebook : @bernamaofficial, @bernamatv, @bernamaradio Twitter : @ @BernamaTV, @bernamaradio Instagram : @bernamaofficial, @bernamatvofficial, @bernamaradioofficial TikTok : @bernamaofficial
The Star
10-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
Laos launches digital ID cards for all its citizens
Artwork from Laotian Times VIENTIANE (Xinhua): In a major step toward digital transformation, Laos is preparing to launch modern digital identity cards for citizens across the country. The initiative is part of the Lao government's broader strategy to build a digital government, economy, and society, which is in line with the Lao People's Revolutionary Party's modernization vision, Lao News Agency has reported. The Lao Ministry of Public Security is leading the project, focusing on developing digital infrastructure, strengthening IT capabilities among security personnel, and updating legal frameworks to support the new system. The project includes the construction of a centralised Citizen Data Centre, the integration of population data, and the transformation of this data into a secure, digital format. The ministry has also prioritized training and technical preparation to ensure a smooth transition. - Xinhua
