Tonpheung: The Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone (GTSEZ) in Tonpheung District, Bokeo Province, recently hosted a meeting to welcome diplomats and representatives of international organizations accredited to Laos. The event was attended by high-ranking officials including Brigadier General Aen Ounanongnouk, Deputy Minister of Public Security; Brigadier General Soukphachan Silapheth, Deputy Governor of Bokeo Province; and Mr. Khueanphet Vongchan, Deputy Governor of Bokeo Province and Deputy Head of the GTSEZ Management and Administration Committee.
According to Lao News Agency, Mr. Khamsuang Vilaiphone, Acting Head of the GTSEZ Management and Administration Authority, provided insights into the zone's strategic location in Tonpheung District, situated at the tri-border area of Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar. Initially established as the ASEAN-Golden Triangle Comprehensive Economic and Tourism Development Zone, the project covers 827 hectares and was upgraded to a Special Economic Zone following investor proposals and government approval.
The concession period for the GTSEZ has been extended to 99 years under a Prime Ministerial decree, allowing development and investment across 13 main areas, including trade, industry, tourism, IT, and healthcare. The zone hosts around 65,000 residents from over 30 nationalities, with Lao nationals making up 35 percent of the population. It attracts an estimated 500,000 to 600,000 tourists annually and has contributed 828 billion kip to the state budget since its establishment in 2009.
Mr. Gao Long, Vice President of the GTSEZ Administrative Board, highlighted the progress made over 18 years by the Dok Ngiew Kham Group, the developer of the zone. He emphasized the group's commitment to adhering to Lao laws and policies while fostering development in various sectors. The zone aims to promote economic development, peace, and shared prosperity through innovation, efficiency, and cooperation.