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The tourism industry in Laos is developing rapidly, with several five-star resorts open or expected to open in the coming years. The major tourist destination is the world heritage site and ancient capital of Luang Prabang, but other areas including Champasak province and Vang Vieng also attract visitors, especially Chinese and Korean tourists.  Tourism’s relative share of GDP averaged 12.5 percent from 2016-1019, before the onset of the COVID-19 global pandemic.  Since Laos reopened its borders to international tourists in April 2022, the industry has seen a slow but steady recovery, buoyed by the new passenger routes on the Lao-China Railway running from Kunming in the PRC to Vientiane in Laos. Since December 2021, the Lao-China Railway has carried over 701,600 passengers between stations inside Laos. Tourism and travel contributions to GDP have not yet been tallied for 2022 or 2023, but over 1.67 million tourists visited Laos between January and June 2023, compared to only one million tourists between January and September 2022.

Information on Luang Prabang

Lao Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism:

  • Ecotourism Laos: World Heritage Sites
  • Knoema: World Travel and Tourism  
  • Economist Intelligence Unit: Laos Country Report  

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Tourism in Laos 

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Tourism in Laos is big business for the nation. But what is the appeal of this tourist destination and how is tourism managed here? Read on to find out…

Tourism in Laos

Laos, with its serene landscapes and timeless traditions, remains one of Southeast Asia’s most untouched treasures. Nestled amidst rugged mountains and the meandering Mekong River, this country offers a retreat into a world where ancient temples meet natural wonders. In this article, we’ll journey through the diverse attractions and cultural experiences that make tourism in Laos a truly unique and enchanting voyage.

Geography of Laos

Tourism in Laos 

Laos is a landlocked country located in Southeast Asia, bordered by Myanmar to the northwest, China to the northeast, Vietnam to the east, Cambodia to the south, and Thailand to the west. It covers an area of approximately 236,800 square kilometres and has a population of around 7 million people.

The topography of Laos is characterised by high mountains, plateaus, and valleys. The Mekong River, one of the longest rivers in the world, runs through the western and southern parts of the country and serves as a major transportation route. The river valley is home to the majority of Laos’ population and the country’s capital city, Vientiane.

The northern part of Laos is dominated by the Annamite Range, a chain of mountains that forms the border with Vietnam. The highest peak in Laos, Phou Bia, is located in this region. The central part of the country is a plateau, which includes the Plain of Jars, a unique archaeological site where hundreds of large stone jars are scattered across the landscape.

The southern part of Laos is characterised by the Mekong River and its numerous tributaries, which form a vast network of wetlands, forests, and rice fields. This region is home to several national parks, including the Xe Pian National Protected Area and the Dong Phou Vieng National Biodiversity Conservation Area, which are important habitats for a variety of endangered species.

Overall, Laos is a country with diverse and stunning natural landscapes, from rugged mountains to lush river valleys, and is home to a rich cultural heritage that reflects the country’s complex history and ethnic diversity.

The tourism industry in Laos

Laos is a country with great potential for tourism, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and historical significance. The tourism industry in Laos has been growing steadily in recent years, with the country receiving around 4.6 million visitors in 2019, compared to 1.8 million in 2010.

One of the main attractions for tourists in Laos is its stunning natural scenery, which includes rugged mountains, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests. The country’s numerous national parks, such as the Nam Ha National Protected Area and the Phou Hin Poun National Biodiversity Conservation Area, offer opportunities for hiking, trekking, and wildlife watching.

Laos also has a rich cultural heritage, with over 100 ethnic groups living in the country, each with their own unique customs, traditions, and beliefs. The country’s many temples, such as the famous Wat Xieng Thong in Luang Prabang, offer visitors a glimpse into Laos’ rich Buddhist history and architecture.

Other popular tourist activities in Laos include river cruises on the Mekong River, visiting traditional handicraft villages, such as the silk weaving village of Vang Vieng, and exploring the country’s historical sites, such as the Plain of Jars.

The tourism industry in Laos is relatively underdeveloped compared to its neighbours, but the government is actively promoting the sector and investing in infrastructure to attract more visitors. However, there are still challenges to be addressed, such as improving transportation links and ensuring sustainable development of tourism activities to protect the country’s natural and cultural resources.

Overall, Laos is a country with great potential for tourism, offering visitors a unique and authentic travel experience that is both enriching and memorable.

Tourism in Laos 

Statistics about tourism in Laos

Here are a few key statistics about tourism in Laos:

  • In 2019, Laos received approximately 4.6 million international tourist arrivals, which was a 9% increase from the previous year.
  • The largest source markets for tourists to Laos in 2019 were Thailand, Vietnam, China, South Korea, and Japan.
  • Tourism contributed around 10% of Laos’ GDP in 2019, generating approximately $861 million in revenue.
  • The tourism industry in Laos employed around 150,000 people in 2019, representing approximately 2.4% of the country’s total employment.
  • The average length of stay for international visitors to Laos was around 8 days in 2019.
  • The most visited destinations in Laos in 2019 were Luang Prabang, Vientiane, and Champasak.
  • The most popular tourist activities in Laos in 2019 were sightseeing and cultural activities, followed by nature and adventure activities.
  • The average daily expenditure of international visitors to Laos was around $125 in 2019.
  • The majority of accommodation options in Laos are budget guesthouses and mid-range hotels, with limited availability of luxury hotels.
  • The government of Laos has set a target of attracting 5 million international visitors annually by 2025, and is investing in infrastructure and tourism development to achieve this goal.

Tourist attractions in Laos 

Laos has a variety of popular tourist attractions, ranging from natural wonders to cultural and historical sites. Here are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Laos:

  • Luang Prabang: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a charming town located in the northern part of Laos. Luang Prabang is known for its well-preserved architecture, colourful temples, and beautiful natural scenery. The town is also famous for its night market, which offers a wide range of local handicrafts and souvenirs.
  • Vang Vieng: This small town in central Laos is known for its stunning karst mountains and beautiful natural scenery. Visitors to Vang Vieng can enjoy activities such as kayaking, caving, and rock climbing, as well as exploring the town’s many caves and waterfalls.
  • Plain of Jars: This archaeological site is located in the northeastern part of Laos and features hundreds of giant stone jars scattered across the landscape. The jars are believed to have been used in ancient funerary practices, but their true purpose remains a mystery.
  • Wat Phu: This Khmer temple complex is located in the southern part of Laos and dates back to the 5th century. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and features a series of beautiful carvings and sculptures.
  • Mekong River: The Mekong River is one of the most iconic natural landmarks in Laos, and visitors can enjoy boat tours along the river, as well as visiting traditional fishing villages and exploring the many small islands along the way.
  • Kuang Si Falls: This stunning waterfall is located just outside Luang Prabang and features turquoise blue pools that are perfect for swimming. Visitors can also take a short hike to the top of the waterfall for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Bolaven Plateau: This highland region in southern Laos is known for its stunning natural scenery, including waterfalls, coffee plantations, and hill tribe villages. Visitors can enjoy hiking, cycling, and motorbike tours through the area.
  • That Luang: This gold-covered Buddhist stupa is one of the most important religious sites in Laos and is located in the capital city of Vientiane. The stupa is believed to contain a relic of the Buddha and is surrounded by a complex of temples and shrines.

These are just a few of the many popular tourist attractions in Laos, which offer visitors a unique and authentic travel experience that is both enriching and memorable.

Tourism in Laos 

Most popular types of tourism in Laos

Laos offers a variety of tourism activities that cater to different interests and preferences. Here are some of the most popular types of tourism in Laos:

  • Cultural tourism: Laos has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its numerous temples, historical sites, and traditional festivals. Visitors can explore the ancient capital city of Luang Prabang, which is known for its well-preserved architecture and colourful temples, or visit the Plain of Jars, an archaeological site that features hundreds of giant stone jars scattered across the landscape. Traditional festivals, such as the Boun Bang Fai rocket festival and the Boun That Luang festival, also offer visitors an opportunity to experience the unique culture and traditions of Laos.
  • Nature and adventure tourism: Laos is known for its stunning natural scenery, including lush rainforests, beautiful waterfalls, and scenic rivers. Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, such as trekking, kayaking, caving, and rock climbing, in places like Vang Vieng, the Bolaven Plateau, and the Nam Ha National Protected Area.
  • Ecotourism: Laos has a wealth of biodiversity and is home to numerous species of flora and fauna, some of which are endangered. Visitors can explore the country’s diverse ecosystems, such as the Nam Et-Phou Louey National Protected Area, and participate in activities such as wildlife spotting, bird watching, and eco-friendly tours.
  • Community-based tourism: Community-based tourism is a growing trend in Laos, as it offers visitors an opportunity to experience the local way of life and support sustainable development in rural communities. Visitors can stay in homestays or guesthouses run by local families, participate in traditional activities such as rice farming and weaving, and learn about local customs and traditions.
  • Spiritual tourism: Buddhism is the dominant religion in Laos, and the country is home to numerous temples and monasteries. Visitors can participate in meditation retreats, attend religious ceremonies, and learn about the Buddhist way of life at places like Wat Phu, That Luang, and the Buddha Park.

These are just a few examples of the types of tourism that are popular in Laos, and visitors can find a range of activities and experiences that suit their interests and preferences.

Economic impacts of tourism in Laos

Tourism is an important sector of the economy in Laos, contributing significantly to the country’s GDP, job creation, and foreign exchange earnings. Here are some of the economic impacts of tourism in Laos:

  • GDP contribution: According to the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), the direct contribution of tourism to Laos’ GDP was 2.2% in 2019. However, when the indirect and induced impacts are taken into account, the total contribution of tourism to GDP was estimated to be around 8.2%.
  • Job creation: Tourism is a major employer in Laos, particularly in the service sector. According to the WTTC, the travel and tourism sector in Laos directly supported 165,000 jobs in 2019, which represents around 2.9% of total employment in the country. When the indirect and induced impacts are considered, tourism is estimated to have supported around 550,000 jobs, or around 9.6% of total employment.
  • Foreign exchange earnings: Tourism is a significant source of foreign exchange earnings for Laos, with international visitors spending money on accommodation, food, transportation, and souvenirs. According to the Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism, international tourism receipts in Laos reached $904 million in 2019, representing around 6.3% of total exports.
  • Regional development: Tourism has the potential to support regional development in Laos, particularly in rural areas. Community-based tourism initiatives and homestays, for example, can provide income opportunities for local communities and support the preservation of cultural heritage and the environment.
  • Infrastructure development: The growth of tourism in Laos has also led to the development of infrastructure such as airports, roads, and hotels, which can have positive spillover effects on other sectors of the economy.

However, it’s important to note that tourism can also have negative economic impacts, such as increasing the cost of living for locals, creating wealth disparities, and contributing to environmental degradation if not managed sustainably. Therefore, it’s essential to ensure that tourism development is sustainable and benefits all stakeholders, including local communities and the environment.

Social impacts of tourism in Laos

Tourism can have both positive and negative social impacts on the host communities in Laos. Here are some examples of the social impacts of tourism in Laos:

Positive impacts:

  • Cultural exchange and preservation: Tourism provides an opportunity for visitors to learn about the local culture, traditions, and way of life, and for locals to share their knowledge and experiences. This can help promote cultural exchange and understanding, and also support the preservation of cultural heritage.
  • Job creation and income generation: Tourism can create employment opportunities for locals, particularly in the service sector. This can help to reduce poverty and improve the standard of living in local communities.
  • Community development: Tourism can also contribute to community development, particularly in rural areas, by providing income opportunities and supporting the development of local infrastructure and services such as homestays, restaurants, and transportation.
  • Environmental conservation: Tourism can create incentives for the conservation of natural and cultural resources, particularly when it is designed to promote sustainable tourism practices and responsible tourism behaviour.

Negative impacts:

  • Culture change and erosion: Mass tourism can lead to the commercialization of culture and the erosion of local traditions and customs, as locals may alter their behaviour or traditions to cater to tourist demands.
  • Social inequality: Tourism can create income disparities and wealth gaps between locals and tourism businesses, particularly when multinational corporations or foreign investors dominate the industry.
  • Social problems: Tourism can lead to an increase in social problems, such as crime, drug use, and prostitution, particularly in areas where the industry is poorly regulated.
  • Overcrowding: The high volume of tourists can lead to overcrowding and the degradation of natural and cultural resources, particularly in sensitive ecosystems and heritage sites.

Therefore, it is important to promote sustainable tourism practices and responsible tourism behaviour to mitigate negative social impacts and ensure that tourism benefits all stakeholders, including local communities.

Environmental impacts of tourism in Laos 

Tourism can have significant environmental impacts, both positive and negative, on the host communities and natural ecosystems in Laos. Here are some examples of the environmental impacts of tourism in Laos:

  • Environmental awareness and conservation: Tourism can create incentives for the conservation of natural resources and the protection of wildlife and ecosystems, particularly when it is designed to promote sustainable tourism practices and responsible tourism behaviour.
  • Natural resource management: Tourism in Laos can contribute to better management of natural resources such as water, land, and forests, particularly in areas where tourism is the main economic activity.
  • Conservation financing: Tourism can generate revenues for the conservation of natural and cultural resources, particularly through entry fees, taxes, and donations.
  • Alternative livelihoods: Tourism in Laos can provide alternative livelihood opportunities for local communities, reducing pressures on natural resources, such as fishing or hunting.
  • Pollution: Tourism in Laos can contribute to air, water, and soil pollution, particularly when the infrastructure and services are poorly regulated, and when the waste management systems are inadequate.
  • Resource depletion: Overuse of natural resources such as water, energy, and land can lead to depletion, particularly in areas with high tourist density.
  • Habitat degradation: Tourism in Laos can lead to habitat degradation and fragmentation, particularly when it involves the construction of hotels, roads, and other infrastructure in sensitive ecosystems.
  • Wildlife disturbance: Tourism in Laos can disrupt natural habitats and wildlife, particularly when tourists engage in activities such as wildlife watching or hiking.

Therefore, it is important to promote sustainable tourism practices and responsible tourism behaviour to mitigate negative environmental impacts and ensure that tourism benefits all stakeholders, including local communities and the environment. This can be achieved through measures such as minimising waste, reducing energy consumption, promoting conservation, and supporting local economies.

Tourism in Laos 

FAQ’s for tourism in Laos 

Now that we know a bit more about tourism in Laos, lets finish off this article by answering some of the most frequently asked questions on this topic:

Do I need a visa to enter Laos as a tourist?

Yes, tourists from most countries will need a visa to enter Laos. The cost and length of the visa will depend on the country of origin and the length of stay.

What is the best time to visit Laos?

The best time to visit Laos is between November and February, when the weather is cool and dry. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and crowds.

Is Laos a safe destination for tourists?

Laos is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. However, tourists should exercise caution, particularly when it comes to petty crime and road safety.

What is the local currency in Laos?

The local currency in Laos is the Lao kip (LAK). However, US dollars and Thai baht are also widely accepted in tourist areas.

What are the must-see tourist attractions in Laos?

Some of the must-see tourist attractions in Laos include Luang Prabang, the Plain of Jars, Vientiane, and the Kuang Si Waterfall.

What are the popular outdoor activities in Laos?

Some of the popular outdoor activities in Laos include trekking, kayaking, caving, and rock climbing.

Is English widely spoken in Laos?

English is not widely spoken in Laos, particularly outside of tourist areas. However, many locals in the tourism industry will have some basic English skills.

What is the local cuisine in Laos?

The local cuisine in Laos is characterised by its use of fresh herbs, vegetables, and spices. Some popular dishes include laap (a spicy meat or fish salad), khao soi (noodles in a coconut curry soup), and sticky rice.

What is the dress code for visiting temples in Laos?

Visitors to temples in Laos should dress modestly, covering their shoulders and knees. It is also customary to remove shoes before entering a temple.

How can I get around in Laos?

Tourists can get around in Laos by bus, tuk-tuk, taxi, or private transportation. Domestic flights and boat trips are also available for longer distances. However, note that road conditions can be poor and traffic can be chaotic, particularly in urban areas.

Tourism in Laos: To conclude

Laos, a hidden jewel of Southeast Asia, weaves together untouched landscapes with deep-rooted traditions. From the serene Mekong riverbanks to ancient temple spires, it offers a retreat into a world less travelled. As interest in tourism in Laos grows, travellers depart with memories of a land where time seems to pause, promising an allure that resonates long after the journey ends.

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Worlddata.info

Tourism in Laos

Development of the tourism sector in laos from 1995 to 2020.

Tourists per year in Laos

Revenues from tourism

Tourism receipts in Laos per year

All data for Laos in detail

Comparison: quality of life

Laos - Tourism Infrastructure and Resorts Laos - Tourism Infrastructure/Resorts

The tourism industry in Laos is developing rapidly, with several five star resorts open or expected to open in the coming years.  The tourism industry experienced an unexpected drop in 2017 but is gradually recovering in 2018 and seeing more arrivals of international tourists and non-ASEAN tourists, who typically spend relatively greater amounts of money, according to the World Bank.  However, although the travel and tourism sector saw significant growth in 2015 and 2016, tourism’s relative share of GDP substantially fluctuated in recent years at 13.7 percent at the end of 2017. The major tourist destination is the world heritage site and ancient capital of Luang Prabang, but other areas such as Champasak Province and Vang Vieng are also attracting more visitors, especially Chinese and Korean tourists.  The 2021 opening of the China-Laos Railway is expected to dramatically increase the number of tourist arrivals from China.  

Web Resources

Information on Luang Prabang

Lao Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism:

Ecotourism Laos: World Heritage Sites

Knoema: World Travel and Tourism

Economist Intelligence Unit: Laos Country Report

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Laos factsheet

Discover the total economic contribution that the Travel & Tourism (T&T) sector brings to this economy and the world in this data-rich, two-page factsheet.

Discover the total economic contribution that the Travel & Tourism sector (T&T) brings to this region and the world in this data-rich, two-page factsheet

Discover the direct economic contribution that the Travel & Tourism (T&T) sector brings to this city in this data-rich, two-page factsheet

Factsheet details

This factsheet highlights the importance of T&T to this economy across many metrics, and features details such as:

  • Contribution of the sector to overall GDP and employment
  • Comparisons between 2019 and 2022
  • Forecasts for 2023 and 2033
  • International and domestic visitor spending
  • Proportion of leisure vs business spending
  • Top 5 inbound and outbound markets

This factsheet highlights the importance of T&T to this region across many metrics, and features details such as:

  • Contribution of the sector to overall GDP and employment in the region and globally

This factsheet highlights the importance of T&T to this city across many metrics, and features details such as:

  • Contribution of the sector to overall GDP and employment in the city
  • Comparisons between 2019, 2020 and 2021, plus 2022 forecast
  • Proportion of the T&T at city level towards overall T&T contribution at a country level
  • Top 5 inbound source markets

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tourism sector in laos

Lao News Agency

Lao News agency

Laos’ tourism recovery and sustainability, a priority for Plan International Laos and partners

tourism sector in laos

(KPL) The Department of Trade Promotion under the Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MoIC), and Plan International signed a Memorandum of Understand to support Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) in the Lao tourism industry in Vientiane on Dec 15.

This will be implemented through the “SUSTOUR Laos” project which is funded by the European Union.

The project aims to improve the sustainability of the Lao tourism industry by integrating MSMEs into tourism industry supply chains through promotion and certification of sustainable consumption and production practices of local MSMEs.

“This is an important initiative in supporting the long-term recovery of a sustainable tourism sector and contribute to Laos National Green Growth Strategy, 9th Five-Year National Socio-Economic Development Plan, and the National Tourism Strategy which will focus on capacity building and promoting entrepreneurs to adopt sustainable consumption and production practices, efficient use of natural resources, and become a socially responsible business,” said Director General of the Department of Trade Promotion Xaysomphet Norlasing.

The SUSTOUR Laos project is implemented by Plan International and key partners, the Department of Trade Promotion of MoIC, and the European Centre for Ecological and Agricultural Tourism (ECEAT).

Plan International Laos, with funding from the European Union and Plan International Germany, has committed to implement the SUSTOUR Laos project in 11 districts across Luang Prabang, Vientiane (province), and Vientiane.

Running until mid-2024, the project will include the roll-out of the Travelife sustainability programme among local tourism industry MSMEs.

“The MoU for this project is very timely as Laos prepares for reopening to tourism in the coming months. The project will play an essential role in supporting economic recovery of the country from the unprecedented global pandemic that has an adverse effect on the global and domestic tourism sector, and contribute to the green transition of the sector,” expressed the EU Ambassador, Ina Marčiulionytė.

The project will develop and implement sustainability initiatives within the Lao tourism supply chain and improve conditions for tourist-host communities by adopting sustainable consumption and production practices among Lao tourism MSMEs, including travel agencies, tour operators, accommodations and their suppliers.

The project also aims to improve their operations, services, and products to become more socially, economically, and environmentally friendly and attract the growing demand of sustainable tourism among international and domestic tourists. Adoption of sustainable practices will be certified and awarded by the Travelife certification standard developed by ECEAT and recognized internationally as the leading sustainability certification system in the tourism industry.

“Plan International is both honoured and appreciative of the opportunity to be a lead organization in the SUSTOUR Laos project with the Department of Trade Promotion; the European Union and project partners. This project will create opportunities with our government partners and MSMEs and support the sustainable recovery of the tourism industry which has been significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The project will help to develop our pathway to a greener economy and improve sustainable community based tourism practices by working closely with community members and MSMEs to reduce the social and environmental impacts of tourism. This is an important contribution in building back better and stronger,” remarked Mr. Sengsantisith Sanasisane, the Interim Country Director and Deputy Director of Operations, Plan International in Laos.

The project will generate market demand for sustainable business practices by raising awareness of sustainable MSMEs among consumers, specifically tourists (domestic and international) and international travel agents. This will ultimately benefit Lao businesses in the tourism industry that are adopting sustainable practices with a competitive advantage resulting in increased income and employment opportunities.

“We at the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LNCCI) express our commitment and vision to create a conducive and highly competitive business environment that contributes significantly to the sustainable business growth of the Lao PDR, especially support MSMEs access to finance, Lao product marketing development, international economic integration, and sustainable investments to achieve their goals, skills development for quality which can make a huge contribution to the sustainable economic growth in the Lao PDR,” said Mr. Oudet Souvannavong, President of LNCCI.

In cooperation with government partners and representatives from the private sector, the project will seek to advocate for sustainable consumption and production practices in public and private institutions and will work closely with public and private sector representatives to address challenges and improve opportunities for sustainable tourism practices, including supporting the sustainable recovery of the tourism industry as the country begins to reopen for international tourism.

“We want to see more businesses adopting Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) perspectives into their business operations to enhance the image and increase the competitiveness in the Lao tourism industry. In this effort, international development partners can support the development of CSR criteria into the national tourism standard. EXO Travel Laos believes in responsible tourism businesses that benefit local communities, protect the environment, and respect local cultures and animal rights. These values are reflected in tourism products of the company and we ensure that CSR is integrated into our core business value, and translated into the company’s working culture,” said EXO Travel Laos Managing Director Duangmala Phommavong.

Lao House Market Fair to promote tourism

Lao House Market Fair to promote tourism

3/4/2024 1:53:57 PM

(KPL) The Lao House Market Fair will be held at the Song Lao House (Thatluang Temple), Vientiane between March 7 and 10.

Champassak expects to welcome a larger number of visitors

Champassak expects to welcome a larger number of visitors

3/4/2024 1:02:08 PM

(KPL) Champasck is a southern province of the Lao PDR and a transportation hub of the country.

Laos receives UNESCO World Heritage certificate for Lao people’s naga motif weaving

Laos receives UNESCO World Heritage certificate for Lao people’s naga motif weaving

3/1/2024 3:38:09 PM

(KPL) Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism Suansavanh Viyaket received in Paris, France, a UNESCO certificate of the inscription of the traditional craft of Naga motif weaving in Lao communities on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity on Feb 28.

Wat Xiengkhuane, well-known to domestic and foreign visitors

Wat Xiengkhuane, well-known to domestic and foreign visitors

2/27/2024 2:34:33 PM

(KPL) Wat Xiengkhuane, or also known by its English name Buddha Park, has become a favorite tourist destination of Vientiane, the capital city of the Lao PDR.

Vientiane Province to attract over 900,000 visitors this year

Vientiane Province to attract over 900,000 visitors this year

2/26/2024 3:20:05 PM

(KPL) Vientiane Province has long become a popular destination for domestic and foreign visitors and is now looking forward to welcome 900,000 visitors by the end of this year.

ຂ່າວ KPL Laos News

Tourism industry fuels economic growth in Laos

  • 5 June 2018
  • tourism fuels economic growth in Laos

The Lao tourism industry is not only playing a significant role in boosting economic growth, but is also creating a huge number of job opportunities for local people, experts have noted. 

The United Nations’ World Travel and Tourism Council unveiled its latest report recently, which indicated that tourism has directly resulted in 114,000 jobs being created in Laos. This is expected to rise to 121,000 jobs in 2028, which will represent about 3 per cent of total employment.

More…

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tourism sector in laos

To Rescue Its Devastated Tourism Sector, Laos Looks to China

Editor’s Note: This is the second article in a three-part series exploring the impact of the Laos-China Railway, a major project under China’s Belt and Road Initiative that connects cities across Laos and southwest China. Read Part 1 .  

LUANG PRABANG, Laos — Winding mountain roads, sudden landslides, and unexpected halts on desolate stretches of highway. That was the daunting eight-hour bus journey from Laos’ capital, Vientiane, to Luang Prabang, the country’s UNESCO-listed tourist epicenter. 

In April, however, the travel dynamics in this part of Southeast Asia subtly began to shift. Since then, locals and tourists alike have swapped the treacherous roads for the comfort of the Laos-China Railway. 

Linking Kunming in southwestern China’s Yunnan province to Vientiane, more than 1,000 kilometers away, was once a two-day journey, but is now covered in a mere fraction of that time. And Luang Prabang? Two hours away.

Spanning Laos’s challenging terrain, the LCR, a flagship project under China’s Belt and Road Initiative, comprises 167 bridges and traverses 75 tunnels, effectively bypassing all the obstacles that once hindered rapid transit. 

And a ticket on the LCR, priced at just 72 yuan ($10), stands in stark contrast to flights, which cost seven times as much. 

Johnny, a tourism company employee from Luang Prabang, tells Sixth Tone that before the railway, he seldom traveled to Vientiane. Now, he visits monthly, often to help his family in the capital or sometimes just to reconnect with old friends.

But the LCR does more than just reduce travel time; for the first time, disparate regions of the country are now interconnected, streamlining the flow of labor, resources, and industries. 

While the long-term potential of the LCR is likely to unfold over the years, a more immediate and palpable impact Laos is banking on is the revival of its tourism sector, which accounts for over 10% of the country’s GDP. 

During the pandemic, tourism, like elsewhere across the globe, was dealt a crushing blow. In 2020, tourist arrivals plummeted by 81.5%, resulting in fewer than 890,000 visitors. And revenues shriveled to roughly 23% of the previous year’s figures. 

On average, almost half the people employed in tourism faced layoffs , with numerous hotel employees shouldering unpaid leave or salary reductions. 

Yet, this year marked a turning point. As pandemic restrictions receded, Laos’ borders reopened, and global travel began to surge again.

Fresh data paints a promising picture of this resurgence. In the first four months of 2023, Laos’ Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism reported that Thailand, Vietnam, and China together brought in over 878,000 visitors. While in 2022, most travelers used personal vehicles, this year, 85% of tourists opted for the LCR when heading to Luang Prabang. 

With this momentum, the Lao government has its sights set high. Using the LCR as a cornerstone of its strategy, they aim to draw in at least 1.4 million foreign tourists this year, particularly focusing on tourists from China. 

Yet, while the LCR’s potential is undeniable, experts caution that relying solely on the railway might not guarantee sustainable prosperity for Laos. 

For the country to reap the benefits of tourism, some say it’s imperative to address underlying challenges by strengthening ties between the tourism sector and the broader economy, focusing on training skilled workers, and reducing barriers to foreign investment.

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As the LCR pulls away from Vientiane, making one of its five daily departures, the urban vistas quickly transition to sweeping expanses of farmlands and forests. Alongside the tracks, cattle graze contentedly, fish ponds catch the sunlight, and endless paddy fields, rivers, and creeks roll out. 

The train itself bears remarkable similarities to the Chinese high-speed railway, from its aerodynamic design to the layout of the interiors and even the precise movements of the attendants at compact booths, selling snacks like banana chips, sandwiches, and assorted drinks.

Behind this attention to detail is an intensive training regime. Before officially assuming their roles on the train, members of staff undergo several months of training. Some Chinese educational institutions have even developed specialized vocational training programs for Lao students, specifically tailored for the LCR. 

On board the train, Chinese consultants mentor attendants and guide young Lao technicians through maintenance and troubleshooting. Some Chinese staff even made Laos their temporary home, living in collective dormitories in Vientiane’s suburbs for over a year.

“Without China’s involvement, Laos could never have realized such a railway,” says Johnny. 

Hu Sheng, a driver with the railway’s engineering team from 2017 to 2019, tells Sixth Tone that he lived in makeshift iron houses in the mountains, alongside a diverse group of coworkers. He now sells fish and makes short videos about his life in Laos. 

“My colleagues came from various backgrounds: Some were Chinese with long stints in Laos, others were fresh recruits from China, local Lao workers, and there were even a few from Vietnam,” he says. 

Hu, who hails from central China’s Hunan province and has lived in Laos for 13 years, played an essential part in facilitating communication between the team and the local Lao communities. Given the remoteness of the construction sites, many nestled deep amid the hills, connectivity was a constant challenge. After ensuring his team was safely at the worksite, Hu often drove his truck to areas where he could catch a signal, patiently waiting there to receive further orders.

On this journey to Luang Prabang, a glance around revealed that most of the passengers were locals, underscoring just how quickly the LCR has woven itself into the fabric of their everyday lives. 

A few rows away, 27-year-old Phetsadalin and her mother were returning home from a visit to Vientiane’s most prominent hospital. Before this train, Phetsadalin says, the daunting bus journey to Vientiane would often discourage them from seeking medical services in the capital, forcing them to rely on facilities closer to Luang Prabang.

Nearby, Hannah, an American working for the World Bank who’d lived in Laos for nine years, was visiting for the first time since the pandemic. Traveling with her baby, she says the new railway intrigued her. 

In under two hours, Luang Prabang beckoned. As the erstwhile royal capital and a UNESCO World Heritage site, the city — devoid of traffic lights, taxis, and skyscrapers — has perennially drawn those seeking to escape the urban rat race. 

Numerous temples dot its landscape, quaint cafés host conversations with globetrotters, and along the Mekong River, boatmen entice tourists in fluent English with river tour offers. 

Luang Prabang’s appeal and newfound connectivity have not gone unnoticed on Chinese social media platforms. Throughout 2023, searches related to Laos have surged on Baidu, the country’s top search engine, particularly among middle-aged and elderly tour groups.  

And on platforms like Xiaohongshu, a favorite among the urban young, dozens of content creators have enthusiastically documented journeys across Laos. 

Amid the uptick in interest from China and neighboring countries like Vietnam and Thailand, the Lao government is banking on the railway to catalyze a tourism revival. To this end, Laos has positioned it as a top economic priority, while the World Bank projects that by 2030, tourists will dominate the majority of all rail traffic. 

Lost and found

Across Luang Prabang, the nation’s premier tourism hub, signs of that revival are gradually increasing. Hotels are reinstating former staff members and onboarding new talent, occasionally offering higher salaries. 

Noy, a receptionist, told Sixth Tone that though July isn’t considered a peak tourist season, her hotel saw remarkable progress. Almost all 30 rooms were reserved, a significant increase from the typical 10-room bookings during low seasons.

“There were even more tourists before May,” says Vanmee, a 39-year-old van driver, who lives near the airport. Given the surge at the railway station, he predominantly shuttles visitors from there. 

Amid the 2022 economic downturn that arose due to the pandemic, he shifted to driving vans for additional income. Though his family owned a gas station, economic challenges, including Laos’ dependence on imported gasoline and a depreciating currency, escalated their operational costs.

“In the high season (September-April), I can sometimes earn over 40 million kip per month ($2,050), and during the low season (when there are monsoons), it’s around 7 million,” he says, underscoring that his earnings are above average.

While some like Vanmee navigate their way through the new norm, others rue lost opportunities. 

“2020 was poised to be a landmark year for tourism in Laos, had it not been for the pandemic,” says Li Runzhi, the general manager of Lao Happy International Development, a tourism company. 

For that year alone, they had anticipated over 1.5 million Chinese tourists. And with the introduction of the LCR and more direct flights to Laos, they estimate it could have surged to almost 6 million visitors.

“When the tourism company first registered in Laos in 2014, there were barely any Chinese tourists in Laos,” says Li. “China had just announced the BRI, and there were talks about the pan-Asian railway network. We found that there were many Korean tourists but barely any Chinese travelers. It seemed that Laos was a ‘blue ocean’ of tourism,” Li said.

Over the next few years, Li’s intuition in recognizing Laos as an untapped tourism market brimming with potential proved prescient. 

While Thailand continues to retain its position as the primary source of tourists, the tide is slowly turning in favor of Chinese arrivals. Just before the pandemic, Chinese tourist numbers doubled, eclipsing the 1 million mark in 2019 and even surpassing arrivals from Vietnam. 

Capitalizing on the recent surge in tourism, driven in part by the LCR and renewed global interest, the Lao government is charting an ambitious path forward. Under the “Visit Laos Year 2024” campaign, Laos hopes to attract at least 4.6 million visitors, targeting a revenue of $712 million — figures reminiscent of the successes achieved in 2019.

Balancing act

While the national government charts ambitious plans, the recovery process is unfolding more gradually on the ground in Luang Prabang. 

The pandemic significantly altered the workforce dynamics of this historic city, with many locals transitioning to other sectors or seeking opportunities in places like Bokeo, known for the Golden Triangle — a region where the borders of Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar intersect. 

At the moment, Luang Prabang has a pressing need for more skilled workers, not only to accommodate more tourists but to foster long-term growth and sustainability. Phouphet Kyophilavong, an associate professor at the National University of Laos, underlined this predicament in his 2017 research. 

Speaking to Sixth Tone, Kyophilavong argued that expanding tourism in isolation would not ensure lasting economic advancement for Laos. He added that strengthening the link between tourism and other economic avenues, training more skilled workers, and softening barriers to foreign investments were equally essential, along with visa policy reforms. 

To this end, the Lao government and private enterprises have launched training programs for skilled workers. Li’s company, in partnership with both Lao and Chinese authorities, has initiated similar training programs for Chinese tour guides and tourism managers. 

However, these efforts are still insufficient. The company still finds it necessary to assign at least one Chinese tour guide alongside local staff for their tour groups, as the latter’s proficiency in Chinese and expertise don’t yet match the required standards.

Yet, amid these challenges lies the potential to diversify tourism. 

Also aboard the LCR to Luang Prabang was a small tour group designed for family education. Their choice of Laos stemmed from its distinctiveness and relatively untapped status as a Chinese tourist destination. 

A guide from China, who had previously visited Laos, says, “I sought out a country that few others had explored because I thought the novelty was cool.” This emerging interest is further underscored by the China International Mountain Tourism Alliance’s choice to host its annual conference in Laos this year. 

While emerging tourism experiences point towards a brighter future, not all industry players are experiencing an immediate resurgence. For example, Li’s company, once boasting a workforce of around 250, is now managing fewer than 20. 

According to Li, the absence of direct flights from a broader range of Chinese cities could limit the railway’s influence to only the southwestern regions of China neighboring Laos. This could potentially exclude a substantial tourist base from the more affluent eastern provinces, hindering full recovery and reach.

Additionally, with flight costs surging by 30%, the elevated travel expenses might deter potential tourists.

For many Chinese enterprises venturing out, navigating the business landscape of Laos is not merely about tapping into economic opportunities but also understanding and appreciating a cultural tapestry vastly different from theirs. 

Having spent years in Laos, Li’s sentiments about life and work there are complex. “I find the people here incredibly warm-hearted. There’s a distinct absence of overwhelming financial pressures, and a remarkable openness and absence of rigid power and wealth hierarchies,” says Li. “These very qualities, I believe, are what draw tourists here. And they’re also the very reasons why I’ve developed a deep affection for Laos.”

Years in Laos have given Li a nuanced perspective on life and work in the country. “The warmth of the people here stands out. They’re free from the weight of intense financial pressures, and seem untouched by rigid power dynamics or wealth hierarchies,” says Li. “I believe these very qualities not only attract tourists but have also endeared me deeply to Laos.”

“They value freedom, especially in the workplace,” says Li. “Criticize Lao employees too severely, and they could choose to leave immediately. While many in China are used to tight deadlines, such a rhythm doesn’t resonate in Laos. The very concept of Key Performance Indicators seems alien here.” 

Having spent so much time in Laos, Li says he’s now more sensitive to their nuances, and has perhaps even adopted some. “Yet, more often than not, I find myself striving to bridge the gap. Truly embracing their way of life and work is quite the challenge.”

Editor: Apurva.

(Header image: Monks walk past a temple in Luang Prabang, Laos, July 2023. Wu Huiyuan/Sixth Tone)

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The Laotian Times

A new report by the World Bank indicates the impact on the tourism industry in Laos of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Data from the World Bank report showed a steady rise in domestic and international travel from 2016-2020, before coming to a sudden halt as an effect of the pandemic.

tourism sector in laos

Before the strict domestic and international travel restrictions in 2020, Laos’ tourism market was steadily rising from inbound travelers hailing from neighboring nations such as Thailand and Vietnam.

The domestic tourism industry in the country saw a rise from nearly 2 million people in 2016 to just under 3 million by 2018. However, by 2020, the number of domestic tourists had dropped to 1.5 million, a near 50 percent decrease.

Whereas international tourism saw an even more prevalent drop. In 2019, international tourism peaked when Laos welcomed well over 3 million tourists. In contrast, the following year saw around 500,000 tourists enter the country, an approximately 83 percent drop.

Impact of the Pandemic on Laos’ Tourism Industry

The series of nationwide lockdowns initiated in 2020 saw many businesses temporarily cease operations. The effect of which saw many remain closed after restrictions were lifted and a sudden jump into widespread unemployment.

According to the Lao Tourism Covid-19 Recovery Roadmap 2021-2025 report , 65 percent of businesses in Vientiane Capital reduced their employees. But the impact of Covid-19 was seen most heavily in Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng, where more than 80 percent of the enterprises cut over half of their employees as tourism businesses drove the local economy.

Women were the most heavily affected during this time, as the impact laid heavy on tourism, wholesale, and retail trades, along with other tourism-related service industries.

Before the pandemic, skills development in the Lao tourism workforce was growing. Data from the Ministry of Education and Sports in Laos indicated that over half of the tourism-related workforce held a formal qualification in 2020, and the tourism and hospitality-specific qualifications doubled to 6.7 percent in 2021.

The skilled workforce in the tourism sector experienced growth; however, the pandemic and its repercussions prompted individuals to seek higher-paying employment opportunities, particularly in Thailand, where the monthly wage was three times higher than in Laos.

The transportation sector, as related to tourism, also took a hit during the pandemic. As a result of canceled or reduced flight routes, Lao Airlines recorded a loss of more than 50 percent in revenue and passengers from January to June 2020.

In 2019, before the pandemic, tourism stood as one of Laos’ primary generators of foreign exchange earnings. Surpassed only by the mining and electricity sectors, the tourism industry played a crucial role in fueling economic growth.

Positive Trends and Recovery Post-Pandemic 

One of the main factors contributing to the tourism recovery is the availability of international mobility and travel. As it continues on its path to recovery, Laos is now witnessing an encouraging trend. Foreign airlines and partner countries are beginning to establish direct routes.

Lao Airlines and Vietjet, Vietnam’s leading low-cost airline, recently formalized a collaboration that will see a direct flight route between Vientiane Capital, Laos, and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, by February 2024.

Thai Airways and Ural Airlines , a Russian based airline, have also recently resumed direct flights to Laos’ capital between Bangkok and Vladivostok, respectively.

With a similar objective in mind, the Lao government is also actively pushing for improvements in hotel accommodations, tourism resources, products, transportation, and medical facilities, prioritizing quality, safety, and visitor satisfaction.

In the first half of 2023, the country welcomed 1.6 million visitors, an indication that the country is becoming more attractive to both foreign and domestic tourists. The government has further set ambitious goals in the tourism sector with the launch of the “ Visit Laos 2024 ” campaign.

Anticipated as a trigger for economic growth, the campaign aims to attract 2.4 million foreign visitors and generate USD 401 million in revenue.

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Tourism industry  fuels economic growth in Laos

Tourism industry  fuels economic growth in Laos

The Lao tourism industry is not only playing a significant role in boosting economic growth, but is also creating a huge number of job opportunities for local people, experts have noted. 

The United Nations’ World Travel and Tourism Council unveiled its latest report recently, which indicated that tourism has directly resulted in 114,000 jobs being created in Laos. This is expected to rise to 121,000 jobs in 2028, which will represent about 3 per cent of total employment. As a whole, tourism and related services have generated more than 385,000 jobs in the country, helping to improve per-capita income for the Lao people, particularly the poor. The country’s deputy minister of information, culture and tourism, Ounthuang Khaophanh, said recently that tourism was one of the top five income earners for Laos, driving economic growth and contributing to poverty alleviation.  In addition, tourism has resulted in the improvement of services and infrastructure including roads, as well as the construction of new hotels, restaurants, airports and other facilities. According to a report in The Asean Post, improving the tourism sector will certainly help the country gain much needed additional revenue. “The growth of the tourism sector would also be key in developing tourist related infrastructure such as airports and road links,” stated The Asean Post. In 2017, the total contribution from travel and tourism to Laos’ gross domestic product (GDP) was around US$2 billion (Bt64 billion), which accounted for 13.7 per cent of total GDP. This figure is expected to rise to US$3.3 billion by 2028. Given that tourism plays a significant role for the Lao economy, the government launched the “Visit Laos Year 2018” campaign to attract more tourists. All provinces are holding activities as part of a nationwide effort to bring at least 5 million tourists to the country and generate revenue of about US$900 million.    The government expects that tourist arrivals will exceed 6 million by 2020 and generate income in excess of US$993 million, as well as creating more job opportunities. Although Laos is a small country with a population of just 6.5 million people, the Asian nation is one of the fastest growing economies in East Asia and the Pacific according to the World Bank, recording an average growth rate of about 7 per cent per year.

Improving Laos has fascinating tourist attractions in all provinces, ranging from areas of natural beauty to cultural and historical sites. However, the main challenge for the nation’s tourism industry is the lack of road access to many of these sites. Over past decades the government has invested a huge amount in improving tourist sites and road access and facilitating investment by the private sector in the tourism industry, all with the goal of boosting tourist numbers. But the government is aware that even more money needs to be pumped into infrastructure development to further boost tourism growth and the continued growth of the Lao economy.

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Post-Covid-19 Economic and Health Recovery in Laos

Photo: Mladen Antono/AFP/Getty Images

Photo: Mladen Antono/AFP/Getty Images

Table of Contents

Report by Daniel F. Runde , Romina Bandura , and Shannon McKeown

Published January 19, 2022

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  • The Lao economy was hit especially hard by the Covid-19 pandemic and is likely to see slower GDP growth rates for 2022. The informal sector and small businesses have fared the worst and will require greater capital to recover financially.
  • While the Lao government was able to vaccinate 50 percent of the population by the end of 2021, it will need to address pervasive healthcare infrastructure issues and improve access to rural areas to inoculate the rest of the population and prevent further disease outbreaks.
  • Opportunities have emerged for greater digitization in the economic and education sectors, which could help propel recovery efforts further and generate more sustained economic growth for Laos going forward.

The Covid-19 pandemic has disrupted people’s livelihoods and tested healthcare systems around the world, and Laos is no exception. Its economy was hit particularly hard given its reliance on tourism, trade, and services. The country’s GDP growth is unlikely to reach pre-Covid-19 levels soon: while the World Bank predicts a 4.5 percent GDP growth rate for 2022, this remains well below pre-pandemic rates, which ranged from 6 to 8 percent for most of the past decade. The pandemic has also exacerbated structural problems in the Lao healthcare sector, which warrants investment and reform. As the Lao government shifts from a “zero Covid-19” policy to “living with Covid-19,” the United States and other donors can accompany these efforts by supporting small businesses and investing in long-term resilience in the healthcare sector.

As the Lao government shifts from a “zero Covid-19” policy to “living with Covid-19,” the United States and other donors can accompany these efforts by supporting small businesses and investing in long-term resilience in the healthcare sector.

Economic and Health Impacts of Covid-19

As the Covid-19 pandemic unfolded, the Lao government implemented the country’s first national lockdown on April 1, 2020 (after its first Covid-19 case was detected on March 24, 2020 ), followed by a second lockdown on April 22, 2021. The government established the National Taskforce Committee for Covid-19 Prevention and Control to coordinate response efforts, including implementing social distancing, providing testing, conducting surveillance, and imposing restrictions. The Ministry of Health built Emergency Operations Centers in each province to provide hospital, surveillance, and testing services. In the long term, to prevent future outbreaks and buttress the health sector, the government also endorsed the National Covid-19 Preparedness and Response Strategic Plan 2020–2025. As a result of these efforts, in 2020 Laos had the lowest number of all Covid-19 cases in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and one of the lowest in Asia. As of January 12, 2022, there have been just over 122,241 confirmed Covid-19 cases and 471 deaths in Laos since the start of the pandemic, according to the World Health Organization (WHO)—most of which are part of the country’s most recent outbreak.

Successive lockdowns impacted the population’s ability to make a living and access healthcare services. As a result, many households experienced a loss of income and increased food insecurity. A WHO-administered study revealed that nearly 50 percent of families surveyed reduced their spending on food or their food consumption.

Economically, Laos had its slowest GDP growth rate in 30 years as a result of the pandemic. Tax revenue fell by 37.6 percent by November 2020, while public debt increased to 69 percent of GDP, mainly due to infrastructure projects. Both Moody’s and Fitch Ratings downgraded the country’s sovereign credit rating in August 2020, constraining its financing opportunities. The country’s dominant sectors—tourism, handicrafts, and manufacturing—witnessed significant loss in revenue, exacerbated by the fact that Laos is a landlocked country. Some tourist destinations lost over 70 percent of revenue between March and June 2020; the handicrafts sector is expected to contract by 60 percent; and the manufacturing industry had a growth decline from 6.7 percent in 2019 to 5.8 percent in 2020. These sectors are predominantly female , and thus the pandemic has had a disproportionately negative impact on Lao women. In addition, a significant share of the Lao workforce is engaged in informal work, making them more vulnerable to economic shocks. A 2017 survey of the Lao labor force found that, out of 1.8 million employed individuals, about 1.5 million (83 percent) were in an informal working situation.

At the same time, over half of all micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs)—which provide roughly a third of Lao households’ income—experienced a fall in revenue. The United Nations predicts that over 70 percent of Lao MSMEs will not survive without economic improvement in the next six months. Furthermore, the unemployment rate increased to 25 percent in July 2020, and over 200,000 migrant workers (the majority of whom are female) returned to Laos, leading to a loss of between $125 and $136 million in remittances. The Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LNCCI) estimates that businesses in Laos will need one and a half years to recover from the 2020 lockdown—and two more years from the 2021 one.

Covid-19 also impacted the Lao government’s ability to provide basic services such as education and healthcare. Even before the pandemic, the health system struggled with limited government funding, outdated infrastructure, and a lack of qualified medical personnel. The pandemic strained the already weakened system and derailed progress of other vaccinations, such as for measles, diphtheria, and polio.

Today, many Lao citizens are weary of extended lockdowns, and the government is struggling to balance public health priorities against the need to allow economic activities to resume unfettered. At the same time, the government of Laos has limited fiscal space to offer citizens and businesses relief from the economic effects of the pandemic. The government primarily relied on deferrals on tax obligations , which unfortunately further reduces its ability to raise revenue and provide public services. The Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare also provided supplies to 4,500 returned migrant workers to offset their families’ loss of remittances, made possible by a grant from the International Labor Organization (ILO).

The Road to Recovery

While significant obstacles to economic recovery remain, there have been positive developments in recent months. The government has announced that creating “quality and productive” jobs is at the top of its agenda, particularly in the agriculture and tourism sectors. Laos also released its 9th National Socio-Economic Development Plan (2021–2025) and a new Agricultural Development Strategy (ADS 2025), which aims to boost food security, economic growth, industrialization, and modernization through sustainable agriculture. The ADS 2025 has four main targets: increasing agricultural production, improving quality to enhance agricultural competitiveness, enforcing standards and regulations, and guaranteeing food security. The strategy also includes a plan to encourage domestic and foreign investment in large-scale projects.

Agriculture was one of the industries least hurt by the pandemic—in fact, the sector absorbed 10 percent of workers who had been laid off in manufacturing and trade—and will be a key driver of Laos’s economic recovery. Electricity, mining, and manufacturing exports have also begun to rebound since the trade slowdown last year, and new mining licenses and earnings from electricity exports are expected to facilitate recovery. The Lao economy is expected to grow 3.6 percent in 2021, which is lower than in previous years but still an increase from earlier estimates.

Bilateral and multilateral partners have accompanied the government of Laos on its path to recovery. The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) announced a $2 million grant to support vaccine rollout in September 2021, provided $600,000 in medical equipment in March 2021, and has donated over 1 million Johnson & Johnson vaccines through the Covid-19 Vaccines Global Access (COVAX) initiative (see textbox). USAID has particularly focused on helping Laos achieve universal healthcare access, focusing on vulnerable populations.

In addition to healthcare support, USAID has implemented long-term programs to encourage economic reform, strengthen the rule of law, promote environmental and biodiversity conservation, and expand access to health and education. During the Indo-Pacific Business Forum in October 2021, the United States also held a Laos-specific forum with the LNCCI and the Ministry of Industry and Commerce on how increased digitization could support recovery from Covid-19, especially among MSMEs.

Multilateral institutions are also very active in the health and economic space in Laos. The United Nations provides support to Laos via its Covid-19 Response and Recovery Fund . The Asian Development Bank approved a $20 million loan in May 2020 for the Lao health sector to purchase personal protective equipment (PPE), lab equipment, and testing kits, and $9 billion via the Asia Pacific Vaccine Access (APVAX) facility , although the government of Laos has yet to access it. Laos received significant aid to address recent measles, diphtheria, and polio outbreaks , as well as endemic tuberculosis, malaria, and HIV. In November 2020, the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria announced a co-financing agreement with the World Bank to invest $36 million toward achieving universal health coverage in Laos by 2025. Prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, the WHO partnered with the Lao Ministry of Health to launch a cholera vaccination campaign after major floods in 2018.

Development partners have also provided economic and legal support for agriculture, green tourism, e-commerce, and human-trafficking prevention initiatives. The World Bank and the Lao government agreed to scale up a USAID-backed Competitiveness and Trade Project in October 2021 to help businesses recover from the effects of the pandemic; the World Bank will provide an additional $6.5 million grant to complement the government’s provision of relief to vulnerable firms. The World Bank and ILO also initiated business-loan options and encouraged the Lao government to expand tax exemptions to support the economic recovery.

Laos’s Vaccination Progress

Laos does not produce Covid-19 vaccines domestically and has mainly relied on donations to vaccinate its population. The country receives vaccine shipments both through bilateral partners (such as China and Russia ) and through the COVAX facility , which began operations on March 20, 2021. Among the brands of vaccines distributed are Pfizer–BioNTech, Johnson & Johnson, Oxford–AstraZeneca, Sinopharm, and Sputnik. Since the beginning of the pandemic, USAID and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have together provided Laos nearly $10 million in vaccines and cold-chain storage supplies to support the fight against Covid-19.

As of January 12, 2022, 51 percent of the population is fully vaccinated and 63 percent of the population has received at least one dose. While 87 percent of Lao have indicated their willingness to be vaccinated, there is still some lingering distrust of Covid-19 vaccines. New social media campaigns have sprung up to counter misinformation and promote vaccination, particularly among Lao youth.

Covid-19 Recovery: Opportunities for U.S. Engagement

As the Lao government, multilateral stakeholders, and the international donor community work together to reach vaccine targets, there are several areas where the United States can engage to help the country recover from the pandemic. On the health front, because Laos is a small country of 7 million, it would be relatively easy for the United States to ramp up donations of quality Covid-19 vaccines in the coming year. This would result in a quick win for the United States and help build trust among the Lao population. In the medium term, the “living with Covid-19” policy will give the United States the opportunity to support the healthcare system through increased testing, booster shots, and greater human resources.

On the economic front, there is an opportunity to help the economy and businesses become more resilient , including by developing new agricultural value chains, diversifying the energy mix, and building MSME capacity in digitalization. Similarly, the World Bank has recommended that Laos move forward with business reforms and trade facilitation, including by “increasing the ease of doing business, lowering transport and logistics costs, and supporting improved product quality.”

U.S.-Led Vaccine Diplomacy

U.S. assistance with vaccinations, which has garnered a positive reception, can serve as a building block for future bilateral engagement with Laos. The United States should continue to help the Lao government with vaccine delivery, targeting the most vulnerable groups who have yet to receive a dose. The country’s urban areas have higher vaccination rates compared to rural areas, which are less accessible and less interconnected. To bridge this urban-rural vaccine divide, USAID could work with local partners to support mobile vaccination teams in rural areas. USAID could also work with local partners to combat disinformation and vaccine hesitancy, which will continue to be important as the government works to achieve its 2021 vaccination target.

U.S. assistance with vaccinations, which has garnered a positive reception, can serve as a building block for future bilateral engagement with Laos.

Laos is also behind in its routine healthcare and is not likely to meet its vaccination targets of 90–95 percent for many of the most common communicable diseases. Covid-19 responses clearly crowded out the sector’s already limited financial and human resources, while society-wide containment measures added to the challenge of accessing or providing healthcare. USAID should use its comparative advantage in this field to help the Lao government fully resume routine vaccinations.

Supporting Healthcare Infrastructure

The Lao healthcare sector, already lacking many services and depending strongly on assistance, has been very reliant on donations of vaccines and equipment. While Laos has been able to distribute these donations, there is still a gap in testing capacity, medical supplies, and human resources—as well as the absence of a solid coordination mechanism among ministries and levels of government. These critical constraints are further exacerbated by the weaker capacities at the sub-national level.

Improvements to Laos’s healthcare infrastructure will make it easier to properly store and distribute Covid-19 vaccines. USAID should continue to support efforts to strengthen the country’s cold-chain system and logistics capacity so the country is more prepared for vaccine delivery in the future. These investments will allow the health system to administer the vaccines in a highly efficient manner. Mobile clinics could serve as pop-up vaccination sites in less accessible areas and as future points of healthcare for rural and low-income communities. In the longer term, as the pandemic becomes a part of life and the Lao government adopts a “living with Covid-19” policy, the government will need to plan for vaccine costs (and associated recurring costs) in a more sustainable way.

Financing MSMEs

To recover from the pandemic, people also need jobs to support their livelihoods. MSMEs, the backbone of economic activity in Laos, were the worst hit by Covid-19. Many of these MSMEs are in the tourism sector, which is likely to revive as the rate of vaccination improves and the country begins to open, presenting an opportunity to bolster economic output. Yet additional financing is necessary to support the economic recovery of MSMEs.

The Lao banking sector is currently not providing much capital to small businesses, impeding their ability to grow and pay off debt. Similarly, aid from the government is both very low in volume and tends to target larger businesses. MSMEs will need greater access to finance and debt-relief mechanisms to help promote a sustainable economic recovery. Moreover, there should be more credit facilities offering de-risked lending to non-traditional businesses that might not have the full capital to guarantee their loans. USAID’s comparative advantage in working with the private sector and supplying loan-portfolio guarantees through its Development Finance Corporation could help secure funding and investment for MSME recovery efforts in Laos.

Expanding Digital Connectivity

At the same time, the pandemic has highlighted the need for the government, individuals, and firms to digitize. Currently, only 39 percent of the population of Laos has access to the internet. Furthermore, MSMEs in Laos are largely “offline,” with only about 4 percent of businesses reporting use of information technology, and only 9 percent having access to loans and other sources of financing. Costs remain comparatively high, which has discouraged new mobile and broadband-internet subscriptions.

“COVID has had an enormous impact on the Lao economy and Small and Medium Enterprises. It has accelerated efforts by businesses to digitize. Banks have launched digital services to enable flexible payment arrangements for their customers.” – President of LNCCI, Mr. Oudet Souvannavong

This lack of digital access has disproportionately hurt students in remote areas, as well as

students with disabilities. There is also a severe lack of teachers and limited capacity to adapt to online learning.

USAID’s first-ever digital strategy , launched in 2020, presents an opportunity to expand digital capacity for Lao MSMEs, make e-commerce more inclusive, and make broadband access cheaper and more widespread. This strategy lays out how the agency will adapt its operations to the digital age, focusing on promoting the responsible use of digital technology abroad and providing technical assistance to strengthen open, interoperable, reliable, and secure digital infrastructure. USAID’s efforts also aim to advance and reinforce democratic norms, principles, and forms of governance in the digital ecosystem. This makes the agency well positioned to support the construction of digital platforms and the further digitization of existing economic sectors in Laos.

Daniel F. Runde is senior vice president, director of the Project on Prosperity and Development and Americas Program, and holds the William A. Schreyer Chair in Global Analysis at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) in Washington, D.C. Romina Bandura is a senior fellow with the CSIS Project on Prosperity and Development and Project on U.S. Leadership in Development. Shannon McKeown is a research assistant with the CSIS Project on Prosperity and Development.

This brief is made possible by the support of the American people through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The contents of this report are the sole responsibility of CSIS and do not necessarily reflect the views of USAID or the United States government.

CSIS Briefs are produced by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), a private, tax-exempt institution focusing on international public policy issues. Its research is nonpartisan and nonproprietary. CSIS does not take specific policy positions. Accordingly, all views, positions, and conclusions expressed in this publication should be understood to be solely those of the author(s).

© 2022 by the Center for Strategic and International Studies. All rights reserved.

Daniel F. Runde

Daniel F. Runde

Romina Bandura

Romina Bandura

Shannon mckeown, programs & projects.

The Borgen Project

Nature-Based Tourism in Laos

Nature-Based Tourism in Laos

About Nature-Based Tourism

Tiger Trail Travel defines ecotourism as “ tourism activity in rural and protected areas that minimizes negative impacts and is directed towards the conservation of natural and cultural resources, rural socio-economic development and visitor understanding of, and appreciation for, the places they are visiting.” According to the World Bank, Lao’s “lush nature and rich culture offer an opportunity to develop nature-based tourism, which can generate revenue, create green jobs and livelihood opportunities and lay the groundwork for greener economic growth.”

The Overall Issue

The Asian Development Bank advocates “raising competitiveness and strengthening the links between agriculture and tourism” in order for the Lao PDR to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. An ADB report found that tourism in Laos also supported growth in several sectors including livestock, fisheries and organic vegetables, potentially creating new “agricultural value chains.” Travel due to the COVID-19 pandemic forced around 180 tourism businesses the ADB surveyed to temporarily close, furloughing 70% of workers. Support for the tourism sector could include financial assistance and increases in vaccination, and reopen travel with “transparent, effective, and clear communication of health and safety protocols.”

Measures Laos Can Implement

The World Bank has found that the Lao PDR has beautiful landscapes of rainforests, waterfalls and mountains, all of which offer an opportunity to generate revenue and green jobs through greener economic growth. The World Bank claims, “in the next decade, nature-based tourism could grow in Laos from 4.3% of 2019 GDP and 3.5% of jobs to the global average of about 10% of GDP and 10% of jobs.” Laos has around 15% of the country set aside for conservation purposes on 23 national reserves, having more than 1,200 villages with 840,000 people residing within the boundaries. Additionally, because of international demand, Laos has the opportunity to develop nature-based tourism, as well as have “policies that enable responsible private investment and effective conservation.”

The World Bank gives two recommendations for strengthening nature-based tourism in Laos such as facilitating private investment and managing protected areas. To facilitate private investment, they suggest reducing barriers to tourism businesses for investment, creating regulations pertaining to small businesses in the tourism industry, establishing regulations and procedures in protected areas and giving “vocational training in nature-based tourism and innovating market development, and hospitality.” For managing protected areas, they suggest creating and finalizing plans for those areas, elevating the skills of departments protecting those areas, managing waste in protected areas and establishing a system involving fees and revenues around protected areas.

What Laos is Doing

The Global Climate Change Alliance Plus Initiative recognizes tourism has been a large part of Laos’ economy since the mid-2000s and the country has a lot of untouched nature. GCCA+ reported that for nature-based tourism in Laos, innovations have occurred that include the banning of chemical cleaning products in order to preserve water, wildlife and plants. Some local markets sell only organic foods to local restaurants, creating full-time jobs such as sustainability managers. GCCA+ also recognizes other organizations such as LuxDev, “which runs a ‘ skills for tourism’ programme in Laos.” LuxDev recognizes that by having local and young people involved in the sustainable tourism industry in Laos, everyone benefiting is less likely to trash the environment.

LuxDev is an organization that “manage[s], monitor[s], and support[s] Luxembourg developing efforts in Laos,” after first setting up an office in Vientiane in 2016. It is an agency that supports skills development in Laos’s tourism sector, helping the poorer and more vulnerable groups in remote areas of Lao PDR.  

Looking Ahead

Laos has many options to enhance its tourism industry, especially in a region so rich and prosperous in nature. Through strong nature-based tourism in Laos, more people will see the country’s beauty, thereby creating more jobs and further helping the agricultural sector. With a stronger focus on tourism, Laos’s economy can continue to grow.

– Jerrett Phinney Photo: Flickr

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Cambodia-Laos-Vietnam investment and tourism trade fair kicks off in Laos

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VIENTIANE (Xinhua): The Cambodia-Laos-Vietnam (CLV) Trade, Investment and Tourism Fair, taking place in Laos' southern Attapeu province from Monday to Friday, got off to a fun start with a colorful concert that portrayed the artistic talents of the three countries.

The fair aims to bolster cooperation in trade, investment and tourism in the Development Triangle Area, broaden opportunities to find markets for products, and for participants to form business and trade partnerships, Lao National Radio reported on Thursday.

In addition, the event serves to strengthen cooperation and cultural exchange among the three countries.

The event features 118 booths from Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam.

The fair showcases locally-made goods exhibited by producer groups and agricultural product processors, as well as handicrafts made by local people, with the aim of improving product quality within the CLV development triangle.

The products on display mostly come from the agriculture, industry, finance and banking sectors. - Xinhua

Tags / Keywords: International , Trade Fair , Tourism , Cambodia-Vietnam-Laos , Attapeu province in Laos

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CRK Routes Asia 2024 win to boost PH int’l tourist arrivals

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The recent award accorded by Routes Asia 2024 to Clark International Airport (CRK) will further boost the country’s international tourist arrivals this year, according to the Department of Tourism (DOT).

CRK was named as the Routes Asia 2024 winner under the 5 Million Passengers Category.

“We are grateful for the recognition bestowed upon Clark International Airport at the Routes Asia Marketing Awards. Winning in the Under 5 Million Passengers category underscores the Marcos Administration’s commitment to excellence in route development marketing. This achievement reflects the dedication of the travel and air transport team and the resilience of CRK, showcasing its remarkable growth and positive impact on the aviation and tourism industries,” Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said. She sits as the vice chairman of the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB). Among Frasco’s first directives is for the DOT to lobby for the full maximization of the country’s regional gateways, including Clark.

tourism sector in laos

Secretary Frasco further noted that “unlike its ASEAN counterparts such as Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia, which benefit from cross-border travel, connectivity remains the paramount challenge for the Philippines. Thus, the Department has been proactive in working with the transportation department and other concerned stakeholders to increase the country’s connectivity. We are in full support of maximizing the use of other international gateways outside of Manila such as Clark and Cebu for the purpose of expanding direct flights, either commercial or chartered, not only toward the Philippines’ key destinations but also to the emerging destinations across the country.”

Specifically, the DOT introduced programs and initiatives such as visa reforms and airport enhancements that will encourage more travelers to visit the country, including the rollout of the Philippine Experience Program (PEP), as well as familiarization tours and regional expos to entice not only tourists but also potential investors.

“Receiving the Routes Asia Marketing Award is not just a triumph for Clark International Airport, it is also a testament to the collaborative efforts of the travel and tourism industry team and the unwavering support from the aviation community. This award fuels our commitment to continue pushing for the enhancement of connectivity and delivering top-notch airport services to our passengers through the healthy collaboration of our government air transportation agencies and private sector partners,” the tourism chief added.

tourism sector in laos

According to CRK, the award accorded by Routes Asia 2024 “follows CRK’s exceptional performance in 2023, when it demonstrated significant growth by efficiently handling nearly two million passengers.”

“This outstanding achievement presents a remarkable 160 percent increase from the preceding 12 months, manifesting the airport’s resilience and robust recovery amid challenging circumstances,” CRK added in a statement.

Among the local routes catered to by the airport include the country’s prime destinations Palawan, Cebu, Boracay, among others.

This year, the DOT is targeting to register 7.7 million international tourist arrivals as baseline.

Dive tourism contributes P73 billion to PH economy in 2023: Frasco

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Thailand's employment rises in Q4 on increased tourism

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COMMENTS

  1. PDF 2021 Statistical Report on Tourism in Laos

    2021 Statistical Report on Tourism in Laos Source of data: Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism, Tourism Development Department. 2 Since 1995, data on international tourists have been collected only from embarkation / disembarkation cards of the immigration department. Data on regional tourists were collected from tabulations sent to the Tourism

  2. Laos

    The tourism industry in Laos is developing rapidly, with several five-star resorts open or expected to open in the coming years. The major tourist destination is the world heritage site and ancient capital of Luang Prabang, but other areas including Champasak province and Vang Vieng also attract visitors, especially Chinese and Korean tourists. ...

  3. PDF TOURISM DEVELOPMENT PLAN LAO PDR 2021

    activities that are relevant to the tourism sector. It is part of the wider information, culture and tourism development plan for 2021-2025 and the vision to 2030. The plan is designed to guide and break through the implementation of the Lao PDR's tourism activities aimed at developing sustainable tourism and promoting economic growth.

  4. Tourism In Laos

    The tourism industry in Laos. Laos is a country with great potential for tourism, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and historical significance. The tourism industry in Laos has been growing steadily in recent years, with the country receiving around 4.6 million visitors in 2019, compared to 1.8 million in 2010.

  5. Development and importance of tourism for Laos

    In 2021, Laos generated around 5.70 million US dollars in the tourism sector alone. This corresponds to 0.037 percent of its the gross domestic product and approximately 0 percent of all international tourism receipts in Southeast Asia. Worldwide comparisons: › International tourism › List of safest travel countries Back to overview: Laos

  6. PDF 2019 Statistical Report on Tourism in Laos

    2019 Statistical Report on Tourism in Laos Source of data: Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism, Tourism Development Department. 2 Since 1995, data on international tourists have been collected only from embarkation / disembarkation cards of the immigration department. Data on regional tourists were collected from tabulations sent to the Tourism Development

  7. PDF 2020 Statistical Report on Tourism in Laos

    Table 23: Tourist Arrivals to Laos, Revenue from Tourism, Average Length of Stay by Time Trend from 1993-2025 30 Table 24: Tourist Arrivals Forecast by Season from 2020 to 2025 31 Table 25: Number of Laos Travel Agents 2016-2020 32 Table 26: Number of Tourist Sites in Laos in 2020 32

  8. Laos

    The tourism industry in Laos is developing rapidly, with several five star resorts open or expected to open in the coming years. The tourism industry experienced an unexpected drop in 2017 but is gradually recovering in 2018 and seeing more arrivals of international tourists and non-ASEAN tourists, who typically spend relatively greater amounts of money, according to the World Bank.

  9. Agriculture and Tourism Key to Lao PDR's Sustainable and Shared

    Tourism was growing fast in the Lao PDR before the pandemic. International tourist arrivals reached 4.1 million in 2018, contributing 12% of the country's gross domestic product. However, average spending for each international tourist in the country was the lowest in Southeast Asia at $200, pointing to a need to upgrade tourism infrastructure.

  10. Laos

    Laos. Released on May 09, 2023. Laos factsheet. Discover the total economic contribution that the Travel & Tourism (T&T) sector brings to this economy and the world in this data-rich, two-page factsheet. Discover the total economic contribution that the Travel & Tourism sector ...

  11. Boosting Lao's tourism sector

    Boosting Lao's tourism sector. With more than 3.3 million travellers in 2012, Lao People's Democratic Republic is experiencing a significant increase in tourist arrivals. Out of the many destinations, the town of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site, has become a special attraction for visitors from all over the world. "The ...

  12. Travel & Tourism Economic Impact

    WTTC's latest annual research shows: In 2022, the Travel & Tourism sector contributed 7.6% to global GDP; an increase of 22% from 2021 and only 23% below 2019 levels. In 2022, there were 22 million new jobs, representing a 7.9% increase on 2021, and only 11.4% below 2019. Domestic visitor spending increased by 20.4% in 2022, only 14.1% below ...

  13. Why Laos Should Fully Reopen to Tourism (and Save the Economy)

    In 2019, tourism contributed 10% to the world's GDP; in Laos, the industry made up 12% of the country's GDP. Tourism and related industries employed nearly 400,000 people and were a sustainable way to improve per-capita income for the population - particularly the poor - when compared with extractive sectors like mining or timber.

  14. Laos' tourism recovery and sustainability, a priority for Plan

    Lao gov't urges public, private sectors to jointly promote tourism. 2/15/2024 1:52:07 PM (KPL ) The Lao government has advised the public and private sectors to form closer links to improve tourist attractions, visitor facilities, and services at hotels and restaurants. Tourism Laos strongly raises tourist target for this year. 2/14/2024 10 ...

  15. Efforts Underway to Enhance Tourism Standards in Laos

    The Lao government, along with stakeholders in the tourism sector, is increasing efforts to elevate tourism standards with the aim of attracting more visitors to the country. During a meeting held on 13 February to review the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism's achievements in 2023 and outline plans for 2024, Lao Deputy Prime ...

  16. Tourism industry fuels economic growth in Laos

    The Lao tourism industry is not only playing a significant role in boosting economic growth, but is also creating a huge number of job opportunities for local people, experts have noted. The United Nations' World Travel and Tourism Council unveiled its latest report recently, which indicated that tourism has directly resulted in 114,000 jobs being created

  17. To Rescue Its Devastated Tourism Sector, Laos Looks to China

    In the first four months of 2023, Laos' Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism reported that Thailand, Vietnam, and China together brought in over 878,000 visitors. While in 2022, most travelers used personal vehicles, this year, 85% of tourists opted for the LCR when heading to Luang Prabang.

  18. Tracing Toll of Covid-19 Pandemic on Tourism Industry in Laos

    4850. Tourism in Luang Prabang Province, Laos. (Photo: Nu) A new report by the World Bank indicates the impact on the tourism industry in Laos of the Covid-19 pandemic. Data from the World Bank report showed a steady rise in domestic and international travel from 2016-2020, before coming to a sudden halt as an effect of the pandemic. Before the ...

  19. New railway from China boosts tourism in Laos' ancient capital

    KENYA AKAMA, Nikkei staff writer February 11, 2024 10:00 JST. LUANG PRABANG, Laos -- In the scenic ancient capital of Luang Prabang, tucked away in the northern part of Laos, the local tourism ...

  20. Tourism industry fuels economic growth in Laos

    "The growth of the tourism sector would also be key in developing tourist related infrastructure such as airports and road links," stated The Asean Post. In 2017, the total contribution from travel and tourism to Laos' gross domestic product (GDP) was around US$2 billion (Bt64 billion), which accounted for 13.7 per cent of total GDP.

  21. Post-Covid-19 Economic and Health Recovery in Laos

    The government has announced that creating "quality and productive" jobs is at the top of its agenda, particularly in the agriculture and tourism sectors. Laos also released its 9th National Socio-Economic Development Plan (2021-2025) and a new Agricultural Development Strategy (ADS 2025), which aims to boost food security, economic ...

  22. Nature-Based Tourism in Laos

    The World Bank claims, "in the next decade, nature-based tourism could grow in Laos from 4.3% of 2019 GDP and 3.5% of jobs to the global average of about 10% of GDP and 10% of jobs.". Laos has around 15% of the country set aside for conservation purposes on 23 national reserves, having more than 1,200 villages with 840,000 people residing ...

  23. MIGIP Laos

    The project creates jobs and income opportunities in the tourism sector, thereby contributing to poverty reduction. Edit locations. invalid. Pakse, Laos. 15.1171823. 105.8159045. Laos. Project duration. 2017 - 2020. ... After 8 years of supporting sustainable tourism in Southern Laos, Swisscontact held a project closing event on December 23 ...

  24. Cambodia-Laos-Vietnam investment and tourism trade fair ...

    The Cambodia-Laos-Vietnam (CLV) Trade, Investment and Tourism Fair, taking place in Laos' southern Attapeu province from Monday to Friday, got off to a fun start with a colorful concert that ...

  25. CRK Routes Asia 2024 win to boost PH int'l tourist arrivals

    The recent award accorded by Routes Asia 2024 to Clark International Airport (CRK) will further boost the country's international tourist arrivals this year, according to the Department of ...

  26. Thailand's employment rises in Q4 on increased tourism

    Thailand's employment rose 1.7% in the final quarter of 2023 from a year earlier, helped by the tourism sector, after a 1.3% year-on-year increase in the previous quarter, the state planning ...