Economic issues take centre stage at Lao govt meeting with provincial governors

The Star

16-07-2025

VIENTIANE: Pressing economic issues including high electricity prices, the 40 per cent increase in US tariffs on Lao exports, and the regulation of fuel and consumer goods prices are among the key topics under discussion at the meeting between the government cabinet and provincial governors.
The two-day meeting, taking place at the National Convention Centre from July 15-16, has gathered leaders of the administrative branches to deliberate on priority development areas and address ongoing economic and social challenges.
On the agenda are also plans to upgrade border checkpoints, strengthen defence and public security, and preparations for major road development projects slated for 2026 and beyond.
Participants are reviewing the government's mid-year performance, discussing upcoming strategic tasks, and evaluating the implementation of Party resolutions.
Talks will also cover the export of agricultural produce, use of the product promotion Fund, and broader efforts to support socio-economic recovery amid ongoing global uncertainties and the impact of recent natural disasters.
Delegates have engaged in open dialogue and joint consultations to assess the government's performance over the first half of 2025, while shaping the direction for the remainder of the year.
High on the discussion list are the implementation of the 12 priority tasks outlined in Resolution No. 10 of the XI Party Central Committee and progress made in fulfilling the resolutions adopted at the National Assembly's recent 9th Ordinary Session.
In addition, participants are examining international and regional developments and their implications for Laos, with an emphasis on crafting appropriate and timely policy responses.
In his opening address, Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone reaffirmed the government's dedication to fulfilling the resolution adopted by the XI Party Congress and concluding the 9th five-year National Socio-Economic Development Plan.
He also stressed the significance of ongoing events to mark three historic milestones, namely the 70th anniversary of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party, the 50th anniversary of the Lao PDR, and the 105th anniversary of the birth of President Kaysone Phomvihane.
The prime minister highlighted the ongoing reorganisation of the government's administrative apparatus at both the central and local levels, along with preparations for the three-tier Party Congresses that will lead up to the XII Party Congress in early 2026.
Reflecting on the increasingly complex global landscape, Prime Minister Sonexay noted that Laos, like many countries, has faced setbacks such as flooding in several provinces, resulting in loss of life and disruption to livelihoods.
Nevertheless, he praised the country's steady progress under the strong leadership of the Party Central Committee's Politburo and the government's proactive efforts.
Notable gains have been made in addressing economic and financial challenges, ensuring steady national growth, achieving socio-economic targets, and preserving political stability and social order.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Sonexay called on all participants to study the agenda topics thoroughly and to provide well-considered, actionable recommendations that would ensure the effective implementation of the meeting's resolutions.
Those in attendance include deputy prime ministers, cabinet members, provincial governors, the Mayor of Vientiane, representatives of Party and state organisations, ministry-equivalent bodies, the Lao Front for National Development, legislative and judicial entities, the State Inspection Authority, the State Audit Organisation, and other representatives of mass organisations. - Vientiane Times/ANN