Geneva:The Prime Minister has outlined the government’s priorities for the last quarter of 2026, emphasizing the implementation of the 2026 National Socio-Economic Development Plan, State Budget Plan, and Annual Monetary Plan. This announcement was made during a session chaired by National Assembly President Sonexay Siphandone.
According to Lao News Agency, the government is committed to achieving the targets set under the 2026 National Socio-Economic Development Plan and following the directives of the National Assembly. Key areas of focus include agriculture, infrastructure, minerals, public finance, and energy.
In the agricultural sector, efforts will be made to boost dry-season production to counteract the detrimental effects of recent flooding. This will involve repairing and expanding irrigation systems and ensuring the timely supply of seeds, livestock, and fertilizers.
Infrastructure repairs, particularly on flood-damaged roads connecting economic corridors, national highways, production areas, and tourist destinations, will be expedited. Major projects like the Vientiane-Boten Expressway, Pakxan-Lao-Vietnam Border Expressway, and Thakhek-Lao-Vietnam Border Railway are also prioritized.
In the mineral sector, there will be enhanced monitoring and inspection of mineral production and exports. The government aims to promote domestic processing of resources such as gold, copper, potash, and bauxite, aligning with the new mineral development policy.
Tourism promotion will be strengthened to increase both domestic and international visitor numbers, targeting 4.46 million international arrivals.
Regarding public finance, the government plans to expand domestic revenue collection, adopt modern systems like electronic invoicing, broaden the Value Added Tax base, and improve financial management while strictly controlling administrative spending.
Monetary measures will remain flexible to maintain stability in monetary and foreign exchange markets, with a focus on managing foreign currency earnings from exports and investment and expanding the Lao Foreign Exchange market.
In the energy sector, strategies will be implemented to mitigate the impact of fuel price fluctuations, diversify supply sources, and reduce reliance on a single supplier. Additionally, there will be promotion of alternative energy sources and increased use of electric vehicles.
