AGP Executive Report

SCO Summit in Bishkek: Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith is set to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) leaders’ meeting and the “SCO Plus” summit on September 1, with major regional leaders including Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin, Narendra Modi and others also expected. EDL Leadership Change: Électricité du Laos (EDL) has appointed Souksavart Sosouphanh as Managing Director and CEO, following life sentences for four former EDL executives in a hydropower-linked corruption case. Education & Language Access: Laos’ Ministry of Education and Sports, with Australia’s BEQUAL program, released 50 new animated audio stories to boost Spoken Lao learning for Grade 1 students nationwide. Green Energy for Schools: China-aided “Green Energy TO Zero-Carbon Library” opened in Luang Prabang, combining solar power, storage and EV charging at Luang Prabang Peace Secondary School. Children’s Investment Ahead of LDC Graduation: UNICEF’s Asia-Pacific director urged sustained funding for children as Laos approaches Least Developed Country graduation in November. Cybercrime Push in the Region: ASEAN leaders discussed the rise of transnational crime, including online scams, and how networks exploit cross-border gaps. Laos–China Cooperation: Laos and Zhejiang agreed to deepen ties in priority areas such as environmental protection, agriculture, AI and UXO clearance. Rare Earth Angle: A new analysis highlights Laos and Myanmar as emerging upstream sources of heavy rare earths that India wants to secure for magnets and clean-tech supply chains.

SCO Diplomacy: President Thongloun Sisoulith is set to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Bishkek on September 1, with leaders including Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin also expected, plus a follow-up “SCO Plus” dialogue. Regional Security & Crime: Laos is stepping up enforcement against online crime and gambling, raiding two Vientiane hotels and detaining 68 suspects while seizing computers, phones and SIM cards. Humanitarian Diplomacy: Laos is finalising preparations for the 3rd Review Conference of the Convention on Cluster Munitions (Sept 13–18), aiming to strengthen its role in UXO-related humanitarian work. Education & Skills: The Lao-German Technical College will fully waive tuition and other fees for female students in 2026–2027 to boost access to technical and industrial training. Health at the Border: At Lao Bao, border guards provided emergency care to a US tourist after symptoms of a possible mild stroke during entry procedures. Vietnam–Laos Ties: Vietnam’s PM reiterated that strengthening special solidarity with Laos remains a top priority, with plans to remove obstacles for bilateral investment and business. Energy & Infrastructure Watch: Vietnam and China Eximbank talks highlight the Lao Cai–Haiphong railway as a key priority, with financing structure details drawing attention.

Cybercrime Crackdown: Lao authorities raided two Vientiane hotels in Hadxayfong, detaining 68 suspects and seizing computers, phones, tablets and SIM cards as part of a crackdown on internet crime and online gambling. Cluster Munitions Prep: Laos’ national steering committee held its final meeting ahead of the 3rd Review Conference of the Convention on Cluster Munitions, set for Sept 13–18, with 500+ delegates already registered online. Education Access: The Lao-German Technical College will fully waive tuition and other fees for female students across all majors for 2026–2027, aiming to boost women’s entry into technical and industrial fields. Women’s Skills & Jobs: UNICEF and JICA are strengthening education cooperation in Laos, supporting broader human development goals. Energy Reliability: A new 330MW coal plant in Xieng Khouang was signed for construction by 2029, aimed at improving northern power supply during the dry season. Regional Diplomacy: President Thongloun Sisoulith will attend the SCO Plus Dialogue Summit in Bishkek (Aug 31–Sept 1) and then visit Kazakhstan (Sept 3–4). People-to-People: Singapore marked its 61st National Day and 25 years of development partnership with Laos in Vientiane.

EV Boom and Oil Shock: A new International Energy Agency report says EVs and plug-in hybrids are set to hit record highs, with EVs rising sharply worldwide as oil prices spiked after the U.S.-Iran conflict and Strait of Hormuz disruptions. Lao-Vietnam Finance and Infrastructure: Vietnam and Laos are pushing ahead on cooperation priorities, including a major focus on transport links and finance, with talks highlighting the Lao Cai–Haiphong railway as a strategic corridor. SCO Plus Diplomacy: President Thongloun Sisoulith will attend the SCO Plus Dialogue Summit in Bishkek (Aug 31–Sep 1) and then visit Kazakhstan to deepen cooperation. Anti-Scam Crackdown Focus: Regional reporting points to a shift from raids to targeting the finances behind Southeast Asia’s scam networks, noting how operations keep relocating. Regional Ties and Condolences: Laos sent condolences to Nepal after deadly floods and to China after a disaster in Xizang, while Singapore marked its National Day and 25 years of development partnership with Laos in Vientiane. Youth and Community: Laos marked International Youth Day 2026 with the Lao Youth Union and UNFPA, spotlighting education, jobs, health, and youth participation.

Cyber Crackdown: Laos’ Public Security Minister inspected anti-cybercrime and online gambling operations in Vientiane, where raids in Lakhin and Houayhom villages led to two arrests and the seizure of laptops, SIM cards, SIM boxes and related equipment. Tourism Push: A Lao delegation joined ITE 2026 in Ho Chi Minh City for B2B meetings to expand new tourism markets, while Laos also backed regional tourism cooperation through ACMECS and CLMV/“One Journey, Three Destinations” style efforts. Cluster Munitions Meeting: Laos says it is ready to host the CCM Third Meeting of States Parties in Vientiane on Sept 13–18, aiming to boost international support for UXO clearance. Foreign Borrowing Tightened: Laos issued new Bank of Laos rules requiring central bank approval for certain foreign loans and limits based on borrowers’ currency income, with penalties for unauthorized borrowing. Water Supply Pressure: Vientiane’s water enterprise reported strong first-half profits but still faces a daily supply gap; new plants are planned to add capacity by 2028. Sinkhole Compensation: Vientiane set aside LAK 147.93 billion for residents affected by potash-linked ground subsidence in Thongmang village.

Border & trade costs: Laos’ Ministry of Finance held talks on fixing mismatched transit freight fees at Thanaleng Dry Port and toll collection at the Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge, aiming for uniform, transparent rules and smoother revenue management. Disaster watch: A magnitude 4.3 earthquake was recorded in Laos early Thursday, about 283 km northeast of Rim Khong (Chiang Khong, Thailand), with no initial damage reported. Diplomacy: Laos and DR Congo discussed setting up official diplomatic relations and future cooperation, including within the Francophonie framework. Regional tourism: Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam agreed to strengthen trilateral tourism under “One Journey, Three Destinations,” while Laos also pushes tourism links with India for the 70th anniversary of ties. Education ties: A second computer room opened at Vietnam’s language training center, boosting Lao learners’ access to Vietnamese study. Health & development: Laos rolled out plans for the Green Primary Health Care Project across five provinces, with ADB support. Cybercrime: Laos continues efforts to crack down on cybercrime, including handing over foreign suspects.

ASEAN Spotlight: ASEAN’s 59th anniversary was marked with music and culture, including performances featuring Lao Duangden, as regional leaders push deeper integration. Myanmar Crisis: The UN warned human rights in Myanmar has hit a “new low,” citing illegal mining and scam centres driving brutal abuse. Lao Migration Enforcement: Laos deported 260 undocumented Myanmar nationals across the Mekong to Shan State, reflecting rising pressure and crackdowns. Anti-Corruption & Oversight: Laos is rolling out new anti-corruption reforms and boosting inspection cooperation with Vietnam, including plans for shared digital oversight tools. UXO Clearance Boost: Laos and MAG launched a new UXO survey and clearance phase in Xieng Khouang, backed by US$15 million from the US through Nov 2027. Health & Development: A Green Primary Health Care project action plan was disseminated in Vientiane with ADB support, targeting five provinces. Economy & Laws: Laos Cabinet approved 12 draft laws amid 7.6% inflation and set September priorities. Connectivity & Investment: A Lao hydropower consultancy contract worth US$200,000 was awarded for the Nam Phak Downstream project.

Anti-Money Laundering Boost: Laos and Luxembourg have added EUR 2.4 million to a rule-of-law and good-governance programme, extending support through 2027 to strengthen Laos’ AML/CFT framework and legal capacity. UXO Clearance in Xieng Khouang: A new phase of UXO survey and clearance starts in Xieng Khouang, with US$15 million from the US via MAG running to Nov 2027, targeting millions of square metres for surveying, clearance, and community risk education. Education Partnership: UNICEF Lao PDR and JICA signed a cooperation MoC to improve learning outcomes, strengthen education systems, and support early childhood education. Flood-and-Cost Context: Laos’ cabinet-level monthly meeting focused on flood relief, fuel and commodity prices, as the government sets September priorities. Lao-Vietnam Oversight Ties: A senior Lao anti-corruption delegation met Vietnam’s inspectorate in Hanoi to discuss corruption prevention, digital transformation of inspection work, and training. Myanmar Warning: The UN said human rights in Myanmar have hit a “new low,” citing brutal abuse of minorities and illicit economies, including illegal mining. Regional Diplomacy: Laos’ acting National Assembly president arrived in Cambodia for an inter-parliamentary speakers’ conference.

Inspection & anti-corruption ties: A high-level Lao delegation led by Vanhsay Phongsavanh met Vietnam’s inspectorate leadership in Hanoi to deepen cooperation on inspections, corruption prevention, digital transformation, and training. Public health: Laos reported 4,371 cumulative dengue cases nationwide as of Aug 24, with 42 new cases and no deaths, urging prompt care and mosquito-control. Food safety: Xayaboury District suspended pork slaughter, sale and consumption after African Swine Fever was confirmed in Ban Nam Tuan, affecting restaurants and pork vendors until further notice. Malaria push: A Vientiane MoU signed between Laos’ communicable disease unit and PSI Laos aims to integrate malaria surveillance and response into the national system from Aug 2026 to Feb 2028. Governance & priorities: The Lao Cabinet reviewed August performance and set September tasks, including faster flood recovery, border security, and stronger action against cybercrime and drugs. Economy & infrastructure: Laos-linked regional connectivity continues as Vietnam raised investment for the Lào Cai–Hà Nội–Hải Phòng railway to US$11.05b.

Public Health: Laos reported 4,371 cumulative dengue fever cases nationwide as of Aug 24, with 42 new cases and no deaths. Vientiane Capital led with 706, followed by Sekong (530), Oudomxay and Vientiane Province (459 each), and Khammouane (424). Health authorities urged people with fever to avoid self-medication and seek care early, while stepping up mosquito-control by removing standing water. Rural Development: Laos is preparing to implement its National Agenda on Rural Development and Poverty Eradication, with a draft action plan and budget targets reviewed in a Aug 24–26 meeting; key programmes are set to start in early 2027 through 2030. Women’s Skills: The Lao Women’s Union received vocational training equipment worth 800,000 yuan from China’s All-China Women’s Federation, supporting training in tailoring, beauty/cosmetology, and food preparation, with some gear going to provincial centres. Diplomacy & Solidarity: Vietnam’s Hanoi and Vientiane Front committees agreed to strengthen cooperation for 2026–2030, including a memorandum and shared experience on people-to-people activities. Regional Weather Watch: Laos-linked monsoon conditions are contributing to heavy rain risk across parts of the region, with authorities urging residents to stay alert to hazards.

India–Laos Diplomacy: India’s MoS for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita will visit Vietnam, Laos and Palau from Aug 26 to Sept 2, including meetings in Vientiane on Aug 28-29 to mark 70 years of India–Laos diplomatic ties and review cooperation projects. Flood & Cost Pressures: Laos’ monthly government meeting in Vientiane focused on flood relief, fuel and commodity prices, and disaster preparedness, with flash floods reported in eight provinces. Women & Youth Support: The Lao Women’s Union met Türkiye’s ambassador to expand training and support for women, youth and children, including small business and vocational programs. Cross-Border Tourism: Khammouane and Thailand’s Nakhon Phanom are working to turn the Mekong border area into a destination with “one journey, two countries” short-trip routes. Private-Sector Disaster Aid: Businesses donated LAK 19 billion for natural-disaster recovery and restoring damaged infrastructure. Finance & Energy: Laos’ first international bond deal by EDL-Generation (USD 300m) was advised by Sidley Austin and Linklaters, marking a milestone for Laos’ corporate fundraising. Cybercrime Crackdown: Laos continues intensifying cybercrime enforcement, including handovers of foreign suspects. Tourism Spotlight: Laos was named one of seven “must-visit” destinations for 2027 by GeoEx, highlighting Luang Prabang and broader Mekong and highland experiences. Infrastructure Update: Vietnam’s National Assembly approved raising investment for the Lao Cai–Hanoi–Hai Phong railway to about USD 11.05b, targeting major completion by 2030.

Flood & Cost-of-Living Focus: Laos’ monthly government meeting in Vientiane zeroed in on flood relief after heavy rains hit eight provinces, alongside fuel and commodity price pressures and household livelihood concerns. Policy & Legal Updates: Officials also reviewed revised laws and decrees covering government administration, state procurement, health insurance, social security, civil aviation, and cybercrime. Disaster Recovery Funding: Businesses donated a total of LAK 19 billion for natural-disaster recovery, with Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone urging transparent, effective delivery to affected communities. Tourism Push: Laos was named among seven “must-visit” destinations for 2027, boosting its profile beyond Luang Prabang. Japan Clean Water Grant: Japan signed a grant for a clean drinking water system in Phaxay District, Xiengkhuang. Biodiversity Commitments: Laos endorsed its National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan 2026–2030 and the 7th National Report ahead of CBD COP17. Regional Connectivity: Vietnam approved a major investment increase for the Lao Cai–Hanoi–Hai Phong railway, targeting substantial completion by 2030. India Ties: India’s MoS Pabitra Margherita is set to visit Vietnam, Laos, and Palau for the 70th anniversary of India–Laos diplomatic relations.

Biodiversity Policy: Laos has endorsed its National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan for 2026–2030 and the 7th National Report, with the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment and UNDP Lao PDR agreeing to submit the documents ahead of CBD COP17. Flood Watch: Heavy rain tied to Storm Saudel is pushing Mekong water levels toward or above caution levels, with authorities warning residents along the river to stay alert as conditions worsen into late August. Education Push: Laos is stepping up efforts to cut school dropouts and raise education quality, focusing on disadvantaged and ethnic minority students, better teacher placement and training, and stronger school leadership. Tourism Links: Laos is urging stronger tourism cooperation with India as the two countries mark 70 years of diplomatic relations, pitching Luang Prabang and other heritage sites to Indian visitors. SDG Countdown: Laos’ SDGs committee reviewed progress as the country prepares for LDC graduation in 2026, with Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone calling for faster delivery on lagging targets and better monitoring systems. Regional Security: ASEAN air forces completed an education and training program to improve cooperation and interoperability, with Lao Air Force-Lao People’s Army among participating forces.

US Court Ruling: A US federal judge in Manhattan struck down the Trump administration’s “pause” on immigrant visas for nationals of 75 countries, saying the policy was “patently unlawful” and exceeded the authority of Secretary of State Marco Rubio; the list includes Laos, alongside Nigeria and many others. Tourism Push: Laos’ ambassador to India, Vithaya Xayavong, urged stronger Laos–India tourism cooperation as the two countries mark 70 years of diplomatic ties, inviting Indian travellers to Luang Prabang and other heritage sites. Education Focus: Laos is prioritizing lower school dropout rates and better teaching quality, with special attention for poor, disadvantaged and ethnic minority students, ahead of SDG milestones. Monetary Stability: The Bank of the Lao PDR cut the 7-day base interest rate from 8% to 7% to support monetary stability amid domestic and global risks. Animal Health for Exports: Laos is stepping up disease prevention, vaccination and animal registration to meet international standards for livestock and meat exports. Border Cooperation: Lao provinces and border forces agreed to tighten controls at gates and trails, share information, and crack down on cross-border drug and transnational crime. Weather Watch: Thailand’s forecast warns of heavy rain and localized flooding across parts of the North and Northeast, with monsoon conditions also affecting northern Laos.

Tourism Push: Laos Ambassador Vithaya Xayavong urged stronger tourism cooperation with India as both countries mark 70 years of diplomatic ties, highlighting Luang Prabang and other heritage sites to draw more Indian visitors. Education Drive: Laos is stepping up efforts to cut school dropout rates and improve education quality, with a focus on supporting disadvantaged and ethnic minority students, upgrading teacher training, and strengthening school leadership. SDG Countdown: Laos’ SDG committee reviewed progress ahead of the country’s expected graduation from Least Developed Country status in 2026, with Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone calling for faster delivery on lagging targets and better monitoring systems. Monetary Policy: The Bank of the Lao PDR cut the 7-day base interest rate from 8% to 7% to support monetary stability amid domestic and global risks. Livestock for Exports: Laos is working to control animal diseases to meet international standards, including vaccination, animal registration, and tighter movement rules for livestock and products. Border Security: Lao provinces met to strengthen border management, information sharing, and crackdowns on transnational crimes, including drug-related networks. Regional Context: Myanmar airstrikes on a monastery during Buddhist Lent killed 14 people, underscoring ongoing violence in the region.

Border Security Talks: Vietnam’s Nghe An border guard met Lao counterparts from Xiengkhouang, Bolikhamsai and Houaphanh, signing MOUs to tighten control at gates, trails and crossings, boost information sharing, and crack down on drugs and cross-border criminal rings. Education Reform: Laos is moving to cut student dropouts and improve teaching quality, with officials citing teacher capacity gaps, outdated teaching methods, weak training and learning materials, plus economic and social pressures. Tourism Development: Gensler unveiled the 522-hectare “Truthful Hills” masterplan near Vang Vieng, aiming for nature-led, low-impact tourism with hospitality, wellness, cultural attractions and protected water systems. Infrastructure & Connectivity: Japan increased grant aid for Wattay International Airport by ¥1.027 billion to ¥3.863 billion, supporting upgrades to modernize Laos’ main international gateway. Disaster Preparedness: Prime Minister Le Minh Hung ordered faster flood recovery and continued proactive response as heavy rain and flooding hit parts of northern and north-central Laos. Regional Spotlight: Laos was named a top 2027 destination by GeoEx, highlighting Luang Prabang and wider landscapes beyond UNESCO areas.