Accra: Lao PDR, which is chairing the ASEAN Women Entrepreneurs Network (AWEN) for the 2026-2027 term, is gearing up to host the 2026 ASEAN Women Entrepreneurs Network Forum and Awards on October 2, 2026, in Vientiane. The announcement was made during a press conference on September 10 at the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LNCCI), led by Ms. Chanthachone Vongsay, Vice President of LNCCI and President of the Lao Women Business Association (LWBA).
According to Lao News Agency, the forum and awards ceremony will be held at the Amari Vientiane Hotel, bringing together women entrepreneurs from ASEAN member states. The event aims to provide a platform for regional exchange and to recognize outstanding women entrepreneurs for their business achievements and contributions to social and economic development.
Ms. Chanthachone highlighted that candidates for the awards would be evaluated based on established criteria, including business growth, systematic expansion, and contributions to social development within their respective countries. The event has garnered support from the Ministry of Industry and Commerce and the Lao Women’s Union, aligning with efforts to promote women’s economic empowerment and entrepreneurship.
AWEN serves as a regional network that fosters cooperation and women’s economic empowerment across ASEAN, with its chairmanship rotating among member states every two years. The Lao Women Business Association acts as the official Lao representative to AWEN.