Vientiane:The Lao Government has conducted a comprehensive review of the country's economic performance, security situation, and development priorities. During this review, the government approved in principle several draft resolutions and decrees focused on digital transformation, diplomatic import privileges, and environmental and forest protection funding.
According to Lao News Agency, the outcomes were announced by Khampha Phimmasone, Deputy Minister and Deputy Head of the Prime Minister's Office, during a press briefing on October 23. This followed the government’s regular monthly plenary session held on October 22-23 under the leadership of Prime Minister Saleumxay Kommasith.
The meeting saw participation from deputy prime ministers and cabinet members, with provincial governors, mayors, and local administrative representatives attending via video conference. The government emphasized that political stability, public security, and social order were maintained despite ongoing regional and global uncertainties.
Throughout the reporting period, authorities addressed significant issues, dismantling 322 drug-related cases, disrupting 11 scam syndicates, and confiscating 136 illegal firearms. Actions were also taken against illegal mineral extraction in Vientiane Capital and Xieng Khouang Province, resulting in the seizure of 50 excavators and related heavy equipment.
The government reported state revenue collection reaching 87% of the annual target, with budget expenditure at 67%. Average inflation remained at 7.8%, while financing for domestic and foreign budget deficits hit 66% of the annual target. Over 18,000 workers received vocational skills training, and more than 17,000 found legal employment opportunities domestically and abroad.
Despite these efforts, challenges such as drug trafficking, petty crime, traffic congestion, and urban waste management persist. The Ministry of Public Works and Transport has been directed to prioritize strategic economic corridors, cross-border routes, and roads serving agricultural areas in the 2026-2027 Road Fund plan. The cabinet also approved in principle a draft resolution on science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation, with the Ministry of Technology and Communications tasked with refining related targets and resource allocation.
In foreign affairs, preparations are underway for high-level delegations attending the 49th ASEAN Summit and related summits in Manila, Philippines, and the 12th CLMV Summit and 11th ACMECS Summit in Vietnam. These measures aim to strengthen economic management, maintain security, improve public services, and advance national development priorities.