AGP Executive Report

Border Security & Food Safety: Vientiane authorities destroyed 440kg of illegally imported animal and fishery products at Dongphosy Animal Quarantine Checkpoint after inspections at the First Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge found incomplete import documents. UN Diplomacy: Lao Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Thongsavanh Phomvihane led the country’s delegation at the opening of UNGA 81 in New York, joining high-level talks on peace, development and AI risks. Economy Outlook: The ADB projects Laos growth at 4% in 2026 and 4.5% in 2027, citing easing inflation and steadier exchange rates, while warning of fuel/import shocks and debt pressures. Scam Crackdown Cooperation: Laos is pushing regional action against online scam networks, with a Phnom Penh conference urging stronger laws, faster cross-border information sharing and joint enforcement. Public Health & Cost of Living: Pork shortages in Vientiane are lifting meat prices and straining small eateries as African Swine Fever spreads in neighboring provinces. Transport & Connectivity: Laos is represented at the Global Sustainable Transport Forum in Beijing, focusing on safer, greener transport and cross-border connectivity. People-to-People & Culture: Mahosot Hospital will offer free cleft lip and palate surgery in Vientiane from Nov 25–30, 2026, with registration open until Nov 20. Sports (Regional): Nepal’s Tenzing Sherpa won bronze in karate at the Asian Games after beating Laos’s Vathana Xayasane 9-1.

Money-Laundering Crackdown: Laos is stepping up cooperation with Thailand and UN partners to tackle money laundering tied to scam centers, with a focus on asset freezing, cross-border coordination, and curbing digital-fraud methods ahead of a January 2027 deadline. Rural Development Push: The government has launched a 2027–2030 National Agenda for Rural Development and Poverty Eradication, aiming to lift 100,000+ families out of poverty and cut the national poverty rate to single digits, alongside jobs, rural services, and stronger grassroots administration. Tourism Boost in Vientiane: Vientiane plans new “slow tourism” routes, more evening attractions, and a city pass, plus a Lao Travel app to help visitors book transport and accommodation—after 2025 brought 2.2 million visitors and $621 million revenue. China Ties Marked: China’s embassy hosted a banquet in Vientiane for the 77th anniversary of the PRC and the 65th anniversary of Laos–China diplomatic relations, under the Year of China-Laos Friendship. ASEAN Investment Update: ASEAN and Hong Kong signed a protocol to amend the ASEAN–Hong Kong Investment Agreement, aiming for fairer treatment and stronger legal protection for investors, including Laos.

Rural Development Push: Laos has launched its National Agenda for Rural Development and Poverty Eradication for 2027–2030, aiming to lift more than 100,000 families out of poverty, cut the national poverty rate to single digits, and raise jobs and rural services, with priority on infrastructure and stronger grassroots administration. Scam-Crime Cooperation: Laos is stepping up regional and international work to fight money laundering tied to scam centers, with a Vientiane seminar bringing in Thailand’s embassy, UNODC, Lao agencies and banks to tackle cross-border fraud methods and asset-freezing cooperation. Judicial Fairness Drive: General Vilay Lakhamphong called for stronger, fairer judicial proceedings, urging better training and tighter integrity across police, prosecutors and courts. Diplomatic and Party Ties: Vietnam received a senior Lao delegation in Hanoi, reaffirming the close friendship and strategic cooperation between the two parties and countries. Regional Security Meeting: A Lao delegation arrived in Phnom Penh to attend ICCOS-2026, focused on breaking the chain of online scams. Culture and Tourism: The 25th Lao Handicraft Festival will run Oct 31–Nov 8 in Vientiane, spotlighting crafts from all 18 provinces and linking them to tourism and local livelihoods. Energy Update: A 100MW solar project in Bolikhamxay is moving ahead after community consultations, as Laos expands solar power.

Rural Development Push: Laos officially launched its National Agenda for Rural Development and Poverty Eradication (2027–2030), aiming to lift 100,000+ families out of poverty, cut the national poverty rate to single digits, and upgrade rural jobs, infrastructure, and services. Vietnam Ties Deepen: In Vientiane, Laos and Vietnam reviewed progress on bilateral cooperation and discussed priorities for the rest of 2026, including major connectivity projects and education support. Digital Services for Tourism: Laos rolled out a new Lao Travel Platform to centralize travel planning and bookings, from attractions and transport to SIM/eSIM and accommodation. People & Data Modernization: Vietnam’s deputy prime minister visited Laos’s National Population Database and Citizen ID project, highlighting progress on building a secure, modern population information system. Heritage & Sports: Laos relocated the King Anouvong statue to Anouvong Stadium as renovations near completion, with the upgraded venue set for a handover in November 2026. Water Cooperation: China highlighted decades of Lancang-Mekong hydrological data sharing and flood/drought cooperation with the Mekong River Commission and downstream countries.

Digital Tourism Push: Laos launched the Lao Travel Platform, a “Digital Gateway to Laos” that bundles destination info with booking for stays, transport, SIM/eSIMs and car rentals, as the country targets 43 million visitors from 2026-2030. Mekong Water Cooperation: China highlighted nearly 30 years of Lancang-Mekong cooperation with the Mekong River Commission, including long-running hydrological data sharing and flood/drought response coordination. Bilateral Ties: Vietnam’s Permanent Deputy Prime Minister arrived in Vientiane for an official visit aimed at deepening Laos–Vietnam friendship and strategic cooperation. UN Cluster Munitions: Laos’ foreign minister will lead a high-level delegation to the 81st UN General Assembly in New York. Humanitarian Relief: LFNC President delivered 100 tons of rice and 200 million kip to flood-affected families in Champasak. MRC Anniversary: The MRC and dialogue partners marked 30 years of formal cooperation, focusing on timely information exchange as river risks shift. Diplomatic Milestone: Laos and Austria discussed expanding cooperation and Laos’ preparations for LDC graduation by end-2026. UXO/Cluster Munitions Plan: A five-year plan was adopted to strengthen unexploded ordnance clearance and victim assistance.

Cluster Munitions in Laos: Laos wrapped up the 3rd Review Conference of the Convention on Cluster Munitions in Vientiane, where delegates adopted the Vientiane Political Declaration and a Vientiane Action Plan 2027–2031 aimed at expanding membership and accelerating UXO/cluster-munition clearance with domestic resources and sustainable funding. Laos–Vietnam Education Boost: A Vietnamese grant is funding a new Khammouane provincial boarding school for ethnic minority students, set to host 1,700–2,000 learners and target remote districts, with completion targeted before the 2028–2029 school year. Laos–China Medical Cooperation: The “Peace Train-2026” medical team held academic exchanges and clinics across Vientiane, Pakse, Savannakhet and Attapeu, training Lao military medical staff and supporting disaster-response and emergency care. Trade Connectivity Watch: The newly opened Pinglu Canal is being billed as a major logistics and trade shortcut linking China’s inland routes to ASEAN, with analysts pointing to knock-on benefits for corridors that already include the China–Laos Railway. Regional Trade Rules: ASEAN signatories, including Laos, agreed to allow voluntary provisional application of an upgraded ATIGA protocol among ready members ahead of its June 2027 entry into force.

ASEAN Trade Boost: The Philippines and other ATIGA signatories, including Laos, have agreed to let countries voluntarily apply the upgraded ATIGA Second Protocol early, aiming for faster market access ahead of its June 2027 entry. China–Laos Connectivity: China’s Pinglu Canal officially opened, cutting shipping distances and logistics costs and strengthening the China–ASEAN trade corridor that matters for regional routes like those linking to Laos. Regional AI Push: China-ASEAN AI cooperation talks in Nanning drew 700+ delegates, focusing on AI for industries, digitalization, AI finance and data circulation. Health Cooperation: The China-Laos “Peace Train-2026” medical team is running academic exchanges and services across Laos, including Vientiane, Pakse, Savannakhet and Attapeu. Public Safety & Water: Laos-linked regional coverage also highlights disaster-response coordination and, separately, safe treated water assurances in Chiang Rai amid wider river pollution concerns. Sports Spotlight: At the Asian Games, teqball continues to feature Laos in matchups, while Laos athletes are mentioned in mixed doubles results.

Cluster Munitions & UXO: Laos wrapped up the 3rd Review Conference of the Convention on Cluster Munitions in Vientiane, adopting a new Vientiane Action Plan (2027–2031) while U.S. Senator Peter Welch urged more funding for clearance as UXO still threatens communities. Road Upgrade (Savannakhet): An MoU was signed to study, survey, design, build and maintain a 75.212-km stretch of National Road 13 South (Km 35 to Xebangnouan Bridge) to improve connectivity. Wildlife Crime (Luang Prabang): Authorities seized 28kg of suspected wildlife products and detained a foreign man as investigations continue. Cross-border Security (Vientiane–Nong Khai): Laos handed over 129 Thai nationals to Thailand after raids linked to cybercrime and illegal online gambling. Trade & Connectivity (CAEXPO/CAFTA 3.0): Laos is pushing CAFTA 3.0 opportunities at the China-ASEAN Expo, with Sekong Province highlighted as a “City of Charm” and a focus on standards, logistics, and digital trade. Regional Transport Boost (China-Laos Railway): China reported record rail passenger growth, with China-Laos Railway cross-border trips rising 39.1% in Jan–Aug. Sports (Asian Games): Laos featured in Asian Games teqball and soft tennis coverage, while the wider Games continue in Aichi-Nagoya.

Cluster Munitions: Laos wrapped up the 3rd Review Conference of the Convention on Cluster Munitions in Vientiane, adopting a new Vientiane Action Plan for 2027–2031, as the country warned the UXO threat still blocks development and endangers communities. UXO Scale: Laos’ National Regulatory Authority says about 80 million unexploded cluster submunitions remain, with clearance potentially taking hundreds of years at current rates. Cross-border Crime: Lao authorities handed 129 Thai nationals (including 57 women) to Thailand after raids tied to cybercrime and illegal online gambling. Road Upgrade: A feasibility study and design push is underway for a 75.212-km stretch of National Road 13 South in Savannakhet, from Km 35 to the Xebangnouan Bridge. Trade & Connectivity: Laos is using CAFTA 3.0 and the China-ASEAN Expo to push trade, investment, digitalization and cleaner logistics—while stressing Lao firms need standards, certification and efficient supply chains to win in China. Regional Transport: China reported record railway passenger numbers and highlighted growth on the China–Laos Railway, with cross-border trips rising sharply. Sports: Laos’ presence at the Asian Games continues, including teqball action featuring Lao players.

Cluster Munitions: Laos wrapped up the Third Review Conference on the Convention on Cluster Munitions in Vientiane, adopting a Review Document, a Political Declaration, and a Vientiane Action Plan for 2027–2031, as delegates pushed for faster progress and stronger domestic financing. UXO Threat: Laos says about 80 million unexploded cluster submunitions still threaten the country, with clearance at current pace potentially taking hundreds of years. Humanitarian Diplomacy: A U.S. Senator filed a Congressional Record statement urging more action and resources for UXO clearance as civilians remain at risk decades after the Vietnam War. Road Upgrade (Savannakhet): An MOU was signed to study, design, build and maintain a 75.212-km stretch of National Road 13 South (Km 35 to the Xebangnouan Bridge) under a three-year construction plan. Cybercrime Crackdown: Lao authorities handed 129 Thai nationals to Thailand after raids in Vientiane linked to cybercrime networks and illegal online gambling. Regional Health Support: Laos and partners launched Phase IV of a joint RMNCAH program to strengthen maternal, newborn and child health services nationwide.

Health Partnership: Laos and Luxembourg, UNFPA, UNICEF and WHO launched Phase IV of a joint RMNCAH program to strengthen reproductive, maternal, newborn, child and adolescent health, building on gains in neonatal and under-five mortality and wider skilled birth attendance. Border Justice: Vietnam and Laos met in Da Nang to improve coordination between central agencies and border provinces for mutual legal assistance in criminal cases, as transnational crimes and digital-linked cases grow more complex. Disaster Response & Safety: Laos is pushing UXO risk education and is preparing a 2027–2036 UXO clearance strategy aimed at faster surveying, safer clearance tech and moving toward more self-reliance. Flood Recovery: In Oudomxay, a senior Party/state delegation inspected flood-hit areas and delivered 700 million kip in central aid to speed restoration after monsoon flash floods and landslides. Regional Cooperation: Lao and Chinese leaders discussed turning high-level agreements into concrete cooperation across connectivity, rural development, poverty reduction, public health and education. Sports (Laos in the mix): India’s men’s soft tennis team beat Laos in Asian Games group play, then advanced to the quarter-finals before losing to Indonesia. Cross-border crackdown: Laos repatriated 129 Thai nationals arrested in Vientiane over work tied to online gambling sites, after legal processing.

China-ASEAN Expo Push: Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang opened the 23rd China-ASEAN Expo in Nanning, urging a higher-standard China-ASEAN Free Trade Area and deeper cooperation in digital trade and AI applications. African Swine Fever Crackdown: Laos ordered urgent nationwide ASF controls, including bans on pig and pork movement between provinces and districts and restrictions on imports, while Champasak tightened surveillance after recent spread. UXO/Cluster Munitions Focus in Vientiane: At the CCM Third Review Conference, Laos highlighted risk education reach, survivor assistance, and stronger national standards as delegates pressed for safer communities and better compliance. Education in Lao Language: With Australia’s support, Laos showcased “Spoken Lao” teaching materials at Oxford, built from classroom research and scaled nationally for Grade 1 learners. Trade and Investment Spotlight: Laos promoted trade and investment at the Expo, as regional business leaders leaned on CAFTA 3.0 opportunities. Sports Link: Laos is drawn into Group K of the inaugural FIFA U15 World Cup & Festival Azerbaijan 2026, with India set to open against Laos on Oct 24.

UXO and cluster-munitions response: Laos says UXO clearance is under way in 13 provinces, with risk education, survey and clearance, victim assistance and information management as the main pillars; officials report 105,909 hectares cleared and 2.13 million UXO items destroyed, while keeping annual casualties below a target of 38. Labour and migration controls: Laos has suspended new work permits and labour visas for Bangladeshi nationals through the end of 2026, while allowing some priority projects to continue under existing schedules. Trade push with China-ASEAN: Laos is promoting Lao products and investment opportunities at the 23rd China-ASEAN Expo in Nanning, with senior leaders highlighting expanding China-ASEAN trade ties. Connectivity and tech: GalaxySpace completed a first Laos satellite internet trial using its Mini-Spider system, and China’s BeiDou is being rolled out further globally. Public safety and weather: Heavy rains have raised flash-flood and landslide risks in northern and north-central Vietnam, with some impacts spilling toward Laos-linked areas. Sports spotlight: Laos is drawn into Group K of the inaugural FIFA U15 World Cup & Festival in Azerbaijan, with matches in October.

US–Drug Watch: The US named 23 “major drug transit or illicit drug-producing” countries for FY27, including Laos, while removing Venezuela from its “failed demonstrably” list; Washington stressed inclusion doesn’t necessarily reflect a government’s current counter-drug efforts. Labour Crackdown in Laos: Laos suspended new work permits, labour visas and related approvals for Bangladeshi nationals nationwide through end-2026, citing illegal entry, human smuggling and unauthorised recruitment; priority projects with fixed schedules are exempt. Cybercrime Sweep in Vientiane: Authorities arrested 13 suspects in raids tied to illegal cybercrime and online gambling, seizing phones, computers, drugs and weapons. Cluster Munitions & UXO Focus: Laos hosted and supported the 3rd CCM Review Conference in Vientiane, with continued attention on UXO risks and humanitarian clearance; health teams also reported strong medical coverage for international delegates. Regional Diplomacy: Laos and Vietnam ties were reaffirmed by the Lao ambassador in Russia, highlighting ongoing coordination. China–ASEAN Trade: Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang will attend the opening of the 23rd China-ASEAN Expo in Nanning, with Lao and Vietnam senior leaders among attendees.

Cluster Munitions & UXO Response: Laos hosted the 3rd Review Conference of the Convention on Cluster Munitions in Vientiane, with international delegates inspecting UXO clearance work and Lao officials stressing faster humanitarian action as civilian risks persist. Cybercrime Crackdown in Vientiane: Authorities arrested 13 people in raids tied to illegal cybercrime and online gambling, seizing phones, computers, drugs suspected to be methamphetamine, and weapons. Health Security for Delegates: Lao health teams ran a 24/7 medical operation from Sept. 12–18 to protect international visitors, reporting no major public health incidents. Education Support: Japan granted US$119,711 for a new lower secondary school building in Houaphanh’s Sam Tai District. Wildlife Disease Surveillance: Laos and WCS signed an MoU to strengthen wildlife disease monitoring in Savannakhet, funded through a multi-year research program. Humanitarian Compensation: Eight years after the Xe-Pian Xe-Namnoy dam collapse, Attapeu residents are set to receive final compensation payments by end of September. International Cooperation: Laos and Russia reached consensus on a draft treaty for mutual protection of citizens. Arts & Cultural Bridges: Young Lao artists in Guangxi are using music and dance to build people-to-people ties with China.

Cluster Munitions Conference: Laos is hosting the 3rd Review Conference of the Convention on Cluster Munitions in Vientiane, with Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone urging measurable action under a Vientiane Capital Action Plan 2027–2031, including faster survey and clearance, stronger risk education, and sustained victim support. Humanitarian Cooperation: The Lao Red Cross and the ICRC reaffirmed long-running humanitarian collaboration, with plans to keep working alongside Lao partners for vulnerable communities. Lao-Chinese Medical Mission: A joint Lao-Chinese military medical team will deliver free specialist services in Vientiane and three southern provinces from Sept. 16–21, including consultations, surgical demonstrations, and health check-ups. Energy & Power Stability: EDL and a Chinese firm will study battery energy storage systems to help Laos manage supply as it expands solar and wind, aiming to reduce reliance on hydropower-only balancing. Cross-Border Security: Vietnam and Laos border forces coordinated a joint exercise targeting drug trafficking and armed transport offenders along the Vietnam–Laos border. Trade & Enforcement: Authorities in Boten seized 35,600 e-cigarettes hidden among other goods, arresting nine people and handing the case to provincial investigators. Culture: The Minister of Culture and Tourism met the Khaen Lao Art Association, which is pushing for approval to build a Lao Khaen Tradition Museum after the instrument’s UNESCO inscription.