Laos Aims for Enhanced Investment Quality through Reformed Management

Vientiane: The First National Meeting on Investment Promotion and Management, convened on August 11-12, laid out strategic measures to modernize investment administration in Laos. The initiative aims to boost transparency and attract higher-quality domestic and foreign investments. According to Lao News Agency, the meeting was graced by the presence of Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone and chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Saleumxay Kommasith, who is also the Standing Government Member and Chairman of the Investment Promotion and Management Committee (IPMC). The assembly reviewed the country's investment performance, examined the implementation of Decree No. 530/PM, and outlined future priorities. Attendees included ministers, provincial authorities, and business representatives. Deputy Prime Minister Saleumxay Kommasith highlighted the increasing significance of private investment as a source of capital and technical expertise. Since 1989, Laos has approved 5,394 domestic and foreign investment projects, va lued at US$65.5 billion. China stands as the largest foreign investor with 970 projects worth US$15 billion, followed by Vietnam with 441 projects valued at US$12.7 billion, and Thailand with 686 projects worth US$6.9 billion. In the first seven months of 2026, the country approved 34 concession and controlled-activity projects, totaling US$8.5 billion, marking a 68% increase year-on-year. Over US$1 billion in capital has been successfully imported during this period. Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone emphasized the need for more efficient, transparent, and professional investment procedures. He also called for stronger oversight of approved projects and decisive action against any violations. The meeting reached a consensus on the revision of Decree No. 530/PM and the acceleration of amendments to the Investment Promotion Law, ensuring alignment with new administrative structures. It also endorsed the strengthening of the IPMC as the central body for coordinating and advising investment approvals, particu larly for concession and controlled activities. The aim is to steer private investments toward achieving the 2026-2030 target of 409.47 trillion kip.