Sunday, April 01, 2018 10:34 PM -0400 ------ Update at least once a day...




April 2-8, 2018



Energy and mines growth boost Laos (Nation or XinhuaNet)
THE LAO government says the country will earn increased revenues from the energy and mines sector this year on the back of continued growth. Laos has 53 hydropower plants with installed capacity of 7,082 megawatts (MW) that are able to generate 37,028 million kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity a year. “Another 47 plants are under construction or about to start construction and all
Other stories about Laos around the world
... Xieng Khuang clamps down on gambling (VT)
... China-Laos cross-border tunnel (Global Times)
... World Wood Day 2018 Celebrated In Laos (KPL)
... Contestants compete for place in Asean skills event (VT)
... Planting ‘green gold’ for a prosperous Laos (Borneo Bulletin)
... Laos sees current economic base as unsustainable (Nation)
... Mountain district rolls out welcome mat for tourism investors (VT)
... First Private Environmental Analytical Firm Launched in Laos (KPL)
... La Crosse woman named 'Miss Hmong America 2018' (News8000)
... Lao PM pushes for greater regional connectivity at GMS Summit (VT)
... Lao Govt to sell 16 Mercedes-Benz in landmark show of austerity (VT)
... China Supports Efforts To Combat Illegal Wildlife Trade In Laos (UrduPoint)
... Hundreds gather for Lao New Year celebration in Coteau, Louisiana (KATC)
... Russia strengthens military-technical cooperation with Laos (Army Rocognition)
... Traditional new year of festivals Laos, Cambodia marked in HCM City (NhanDan)
... China, Laos pledge to strive for more achievements in Lancang-Mekong Co-op (XN)
... Cambodia, Laos, VN vow to further deepen comprehensive cooperation (VietnamPlus)




Mar 26-Apr 1, 2018



Lao-Thai Border: Half a tonne marijuana seized (Bangkok Post)
Police arrested on Thursday six people allegedly with 501 kilogrammes of marijuana worth 20 million baht from Laos, destined for the South. Pol Maj Gen Teerapol Kuptanont, deputy commissioner of the Provincial Police Region 8, said police arrested Poonsak Kongna, 26, from Mukdahan province, at a resort in Na Bon district as the marijuana was being loaded on his
Laos on a fast track to a China debt trap (Asia Times)
Laos is one of eight global countries considered of “particular concern” for a future debt crisis, according to a recent report by the CGD, a Washington-based economic think tank. The main cause of concern is the small poor country’s big rich plans for a US$6.7 billion high-speed railway that China is promoting as part of its BRI. The project’s cost represents a quarter of Laos’ GDP.
What’s Behind the New Russia-Laos Military Facility Hype? (Diplomat)
On March 26, reports began surfacing about the opening of a new Russian defense facility in Laos. While few specifics have been disclosed about the exact nature of the facility, it speaks to both Moscow’s continued determination to play up its security engagement with Southeast Asian states more generally as well as recent developments in Russia-Laos defense cooperation. 
The Laotian ivory trade: an ugly by-product of national corruption (Asean Today)
The retail ivory market in Laos has rocketed in recent years. Corruption & weak law enforcement remain an obstacle to eradicating the destructive trade.  In the last few months of 2017, Laos became the fastest growing ivory market in the world. China banned the sale of ivory at the end of 2017. This, coupled with China’s economic slowdown changed the landscape of the ivory trade.
Dams threaten Mekong river life (TTR Weekly)
World Water Day flowed by, Thursday, with just a few if any ripples of recognition except for a statement from the Save the Mekong Coalition calling for a halt to dam projects on the Mekong River. The coalition points out there are 11 large hydropower dams planned on the Mekong River’s lower mainstream, along with over a hundred dams planned on the Mekong River’s tributaries.
Other stories about Laos around the world
... Blood Donation Remains Highly Needed (KPL)
... Women key to Mekong’s future and prosperity (PPP)
... Singapore Supports To Improve English Language (KPL)
... Lao FM Receives Assistant Foreign Minister of Kuwait (KPL)
... That’s Lunch: Taste of Laos worth finding (Observer-Dispatch)
... Five-Day Lao New Year Holiday Dates Announced (Laotian Times)
... Wall exhibit breaks down barriers to Vientiane’s past (Borneo Bulletin)
... Viet PM: Mekong – River of cooperation and development (VietnamPlus)
... Champa Meuanglao Launches “My Favorite Place” Photo Competition (LT)
... Lao Telecom signs deal with World Trade Center on integrated telecom service (KPL)
... Mekong: more dams, more damage (Interpreter)
... Is Laos Really Getting Tough on Crime? (Diplomat)
... Lao PM departs for Vietnam to attend GMS Summit (VT)
... Is hermetic Laos poised for more openness? (Asia Times)
... First Lao-Hmong settlement in area well remembered (S&E)
... The Hidden Caves of an Underground Society in Laos (OZY)
... Asset declaration helpful in preventing corruption in Laos (VT)
... Chinese companies will develop bio-fertiliser factory in Laos (FEA)
... Significant Achievements Noted For Forest Protections in Laos (KPL)
... City still a hub for Lao-Hmong culture, but adjusting to changes (S&E)
... Japan Funds Health Centers, Waterworks Construction Projects (KPL)
... Lao, Chinese businesses boost cooperation in trade and investment (VT)
... Forum tackles education, employment access for persons with disabilities (VT)
... Inland container depot opens in northern Laos to facilitate trade with China (XN)
... Vietnam, Laos exchange experience in political system operation (VietnamPlus)
... Laotian street food at Sticky Rice offers a dose of familiar, with a flurry of foreign (OW)
... Govt announces Lao New Year holiday (VT)
... Russia strengthens footprint in Laos (Janes)
... Soccer: Bangladesh hold Laos 2-2 (Daily Star)
... Laos values cooperation with Luxembourg (VT)
.... EU Organises Its 7th European Food Festival (KPL)
... Lao PM Reaffirms No Log Exports Can Be Allowed (KPL)
... Savannakhet University campus design gets green light (VT)
... What’s Next for Vietnam-Laos Military Ties in 2018? (Diplomat)
... First Look: Snackboxe Bistro brings Lao cuisine to Doraville (AR)
... FAO standards suggest Laos’ forest cover exceeds 70 percent (VT)
... Rosewood Luang Prabang Opens Today In Lush Laotian Forest Setting (MW)
... Laos steps up cooperation with GMS countries for rail connectivity (Global Times)
... President hails cooperation between Vietnam and Laos’ Presidential Offices (ND)
... 1.3 trillion kip [~$157 mil) in state assets misappropriated despite inspections (VT)
... Soccer: Booters take on Laos today (Daily Star)
... Laos – Nam Ngum 2 refinances with bond (PFIE)
... Lancang-Mekong Cooperation yields tangible benefits (VT)
... Chinese grant set to improve rural living conditions in Laos (VT)
... Russian Defense Ministry to Open Office in Laos (Sputnik News)
... Nobphalat Sikaiphak crowned Miss Grand Laos 2018 (India Times)
... First Vietnam – Laos caravan tour launched in Hanoi (VietnamPlus)
... First Look: Snackboxe Bistro brings Lao cuisine to Doraville (myAJC)
... Book Festival 2018 in Vientiane Raised Awareness of Reading (KPL)
... Lao PM calls for Vietnam-Laos stronger inspection bond (VietnamPlus)
... Xayaboury-Luang Prabang road upgrade over 70 percent complete (VT)
... Plans on track for commercial development at Khonphapheng waterfall (VT)
... Subnational Polio Vaccination To Target 460,000 U-5 Children In Laos (KPL)
... Laos steps up cooperation with GMS countries for rail connectivity (XinhuaNet)
... A Lao leader: A refugee from his home country, Soumetho embraced Minnesota (DG)
... Lao-American Obituary: Amphone Phetsisouk (SE)
... Lao State Fuel to protect its market via growth (Nation)
... Lao, French aviation safety cooperation in full flight (VT)
... New Tourist Attraction Found In Vientiane Province (VT)
... Lao PM stresses need for continuous development (VT)
... Chinese firms to develop clean agriculture in Laos (XinhuaNet)
... Polio vaccination campaign to target 460,000 Lao children (VT)
... Achievements Made Last Year With Revenues Rising, 
    Spending Limited; Growth Enjoys Good Pace In Q1, 2018 (KPL)
... Mekong Dam Could Choke China’s Last Rainforest (Caixin Global)
... Vietnamese, Lao embassies in China hold friendship exchange (VP)
... Laos steps up cooperation with GMS countries for rail connectivity (VT)
... Lao Government agrees to religious freedom education (Sight Magazine)
... Chinese Firms To Establish Bio-fertilizer Processing Factory In Laos (UP)
... Lao Leaders Lay Wreath Commemorating Party’s 63rd Anniversary (KPL)
... Handicrafts exhibition held during Lancang-Mekong Cooperation Week in Laos (XN)
... Janus  hails State Dept-provided vehicles & equipment as helping to rid Lao UXO(Yahoo)
... Memorial service held 47 years after Missouri chopper pilot was shot down in Laos (SLT)




March 19-25, 2018



Vientiane residents react differently to Chinese presence (Bangkok Post)
Vientiane, the capital of Laos situated on the banks of the Mekong River, has long been known for its laidback, calm atmosphere. But residents of this fast-growing city of more than 850,000 people now find themselves having to adjust to changes brought about by an influx of foreign direct investment, much of it from China. Luxury condominiums, grand restaurants, open-air shopping
Special incentives offered to Lao expats eyeing return: PM (VT)
Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith has told ethnic Lao living in Australia that the Lao government offers special privileges for people of Lao ethnicity planning to visit and contribute to the development of their motherland. The premier made the comment when he met with almost 50 people of Lao descent who are now Australian citizens, during a working trip to Sydney from
Laos drug lord 'Mr X' jailed for life by Thai court (Yahoo, Nation or ABC)
A major Laos drug lord dubbed 'Mr X' was jailed for life on Tuesday by a Bangkok court, as Thailand battles record meth trafficking through its borders. Xaysana Keopimpha, a swaggering Laotian who before his arrest paraded his celebrity links and penchant for sports cars on social media, was picked up at Bangkok's main airport in January last year. He was accused of being
Illicit Ivory Trade Through Laos Thrives Despite China Ban (Sixth Tone)
Strolling through streets lined with faded colonial houses and ornate Buddhist temples, Chinese tourists wondering what to bring home from any of the myriad handicraft shops often receive the same answer: ivory. At the start of this year, China, formerly the world’s leading destination for ivory, completely outlawed its domestic market. Trade in the country is down, but ivory is regularly
ICBC Vientiane eyes to become leading bank in Laos (XinhuaNet)
Established in 2011, the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC) Vientiane Branch aims to become a leading commercial bank in Laos and offer the best banking services in the country in the coming years. Lu Jian, general manager of ICBC Vientiane, told Xinhua on Friday that the bank's board of management and representatives from its customers had gathered to discuss
Other stories about Laos around the world
... Avani+ launches in Luang Prabang, Laos (Top Hotel)
... Laos, EU Enhance Cooperation On Human Rights (KPL)
... New Tourist Attraction Found In Vientiane Province (KPL)
... Asean socio-cultural ministers push for 2025 agendas (VT)
... Planning authorities roll out SDG support in four provinces (VT)
... German man devotes his free time in Laos to teaching English (Star2)
... Revolutionary movement commemorated as govt meets in Huaphan (VT)
... Vietnam seeks Laos’ closer coordination in volunteer remains search (VP)
... Vietnam congratulates Laos on 63rd Party founding anniversary (VP or KPL)
... Xayaboury Invests LAK 8 Billion [~$1 million] To Build City Pillar Shrine (KPL)
... Vietnam provides over 50 billion kip [~$6 mil] for new school in Xieng Khuang (VT)
... Japan furthers support for Lao schools (VT)
... Lao leaders lay wreath for former Vietnam PM (VT)
... European Food Festival To Be Held On Mar 24 (KPL)
... HCM City fosters collaboration with Laos (VietnamPlus)
... State schoolers decline while private ones increase (VT)
... LXML Pays US$5 Mln Royalty For Q4, 2017 Production (KPL)
... Soccer: Cambodia win Laos friendly thanks to Laboravy header (PPP)
... Laos signs Asian Forest Cooperation Organisation agreement (VT or VP)
... Hmong Community Days in La Crosse explores journey from Laos to America (LT)
... Vietnam, Laos join forces to crack multinational drug ring - 5 Laotians arrested (VNE)
... Laos’ cleaned-up party capital gets first international-class hotel, and turns another corner
... Project for Human Resource Development Scholarship by Japanese Grant Aid (JDS) in Laos
... Green light to Mekong links (Nation)
... Cambodia & Laos media invited to Malaysia (PPP)
... Thanachart sees Lao niche in QR code deal (Nation)
... Laos, EU agree to promote, protect human rights (VT)
... Loss of State-owned land affecting national development (VT)
... From remote Laos to haute couture: A journey of indigo dye (CNA)
... Increasing forest cover to 70 percent is achievable, Lao minister says (VT)
... Bangkok Airways adds more flights between Bangkok and Vientiane (FC or FTN)
... He promised a new Hmong homeland - Now they want their impounded cash back (PP)
... B. Celtic Kyrie Irving is helping homeless San Diego student athletes get to Vietnam, Laos
... CWHP Delegation to DC Raises Awareness of Plight of Hmong in Laos with a Conference
... World Wood Day to raise profile of forests (VT)
... Catholic teenagers rise to Laos challenge (NZ Catholic)
... Wildlife trafficking: the animal market in Laos (VietnamNet)
... Lao Govt to step up community awareness of UXO risk (VT)
... Vietnam is Laos’ third largest trade partner in 2017 (NhanDan)
... Soccer: Bangladesh brace for Thailand, Laos tour (Dhaka Tribune)
... Laos: Hospital management workshop raising bar in healthcare (VT)
... Ha Tinh border guard busts drug smuggler from Laos (VietnamPlus)
... Laos extends condolences over death of former Viet PM (VT or KPL)
... Lao-American: ATU Alumna Aiding Refugees in Kansas (Arkansas TN)
... Laos: Illegal Immigrants Often Sent Home Without Much Planning (VOA)
... TKI Insurance Causes a Stir in the Lao Insurance Market (Laotian Times)
... Japanese Speech Contest 2018 Highlights Students’ Japanese Skills (KPL)
... Soccer: Laos name 23-man squad for Cambodia and Bangladesh (Fox SA)
... Protecting Lao workers’ rights, interests ‘important’: Chinese ambassador (VT)
... How to Tell the Difference Between Real and Fake Lao Bank Notes (Laotian Times)
... Activists Urge Pressure After Laos Human Rights Dialog with European Union (RFA)
... Lao Front agrees on plan of work for 2018 (VT)
... Laos, Australia agree to broaden cooperation (VT)
... Laos’ Investment Outlook for 2018 (ASEAN Briefing)
... Lao-American Obituary: Bounoum Nounay (IberiaNet)
... Lao expatriates pledge support for development efforts (VT)
... Lao cyclists set sights on Asian Games in Indonesia (XinhuaNet)
... Mekong researchers seek ways to improve dams (Bangkok Post)
... Laos placed 110th on UN’s ranking of world’s happiest nations (VT)
... The shopping Vientiane Centre To Celebrate 3rd Anniversary (KPL)
... Vietnamese man arrested for trafficking drugs from Laos (XinhuaNet)
... Pak Beng dam delay paves way for cleaner solutions (Bangkok Post)
... Thai Vehicle And Accessory Import Reaches Over US$ 370 Mln (KPL)
... Prime Minister, Australian Counterpart Pledge Enhanced Cooperation (KPL)
... Thailand’s Delay on Buying Lao Dam Electricity Could Trigger Rethink (RFA)
... Vietnamese, Lao PMs meet on ASEAN-Australia summit sidelines (VietnamNews)
... Chinese companies, Lao authority sign MoU on measurement services (XinhuaNet)
... Can the countries of the Mekong pioneer a new model of cooperation? (Eco-Business)
... PM Thongloun Participates In Activities In Sidelines Of ASEAN-Australia Special Summit




March 12-18, 2018



Corruption 'Worse' in Laos Last Year, Sources in Country Say (RFA)
Corruption in Laos, thought last year to be coming under control, grew worse in 2017 despite widely publicized government efforts to rein in profiteering officials and financial waste, sources in the country say. In a report released on Feb. 21, 2018, corruption watchdog Transparency International ranked Laos 135th out of 180 countries surveyed last year, dropping 12 places from
US Air Force honors 12 airmen who died defending top-secret outpost in Laos (AFT)
A monument was unveiled at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama, Monday to mark the 50th anniversary of 12 airmen who died defending Lima Site 85, a classified outpost in Laos that was overrun by North Vietnamese fighters in 1968. One of those airmen, Chief Master Sgt. Richard Etchberger, posthumously received the Medal of Honor in 2010, after the mission was finally
China-Lao-Thai: Mekong returning to normal as water level rises (CRT or BP)
Small freight vessels and passenger cruises have resumed services after the water level rose above two metres on a stretch of the Mekong River in Chiang Saen district yesterday, according to the provincial office. Cargo and cruise vessels plying the international river were mostly grounded last week when the water level dropped below two metres after the Jinghong dam in
China-Driven Banana Boom in Laos Faces an Uncertain Future (Produce Report)
At the end of January 2018, the General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine (AQSIQ) issued an announcement regarding import and export of banana plants in Laos. According to the notice, China and Laos have signed a protocol that delineates inspection and quarantine requirements for Lao banana exports. Only bananas grown in Laos that meet
Luang Prabang hopes improved road links will lure more tourists (VT or Nation)
Local government officials plan to build more road links to neighbouring countries to make it easier for visitors to travel to the World Heritage town of Luang Prabang. Luang Prabang provincial Governor, Mr Khamkhan Chanthavisouk, told Vientiane Times on Friday “To provide more convenient transport links to neighbouring countries and other provinces in Laos, we are planning
Other stories about Laos around the world
... Lao Govt to bolster trademark protection (XinhuaNet)
... Lao Front reviews progress on path to development (VT)
... PM Launches 'Made In Laos' 2018 Exhibition (KPL or LT)
... NP Record Hands Pick 10 Singers For Final Round (KPL)
... Lao national arrested with five kilos of meth (Khmer Times)
... Laos, La Francophonie pledge continuous cooperation (VT)
... MIA in Laos: Ceremonies planned in memory of soldier (DJO)
... 3 Laotians arrested for smuggling drugs to Vietnam (XinhuaNet)
... Khaen Music Becomes UNESCO’s World Heritage (KPL or VT)
... Off the beaten rack: Finding real souvenirs in Laos (Go Kunning)
... Lao Airlines suspends flights on Vientiane-Singapore route (AsiaOne)
... China's Belt and Road rail project stirs discontent in Laos (Nikkei AR)
... KOICA Supports Savan-Seno Economic Zone Capacity Building (KPL)
... China to Give Century-Old Laos Hospital New Lease of Life (Caixin Global)
... NUOL seeks to improve infrastructure for human resource development (VT)
... Chinese Ambassador to Laos receives joint interview in Vientiane (XinhuaNet)
... S. Korea injects US$6m into mapping project (VT)
... Exploring the heartland of Laos by motorbike (PPP)
... MRC to protect Mekong despite budget reduction (VT)
... Laotian restaurant opens in Greensboro (Journal Now)
... Laos Day to open at Dà Nang museum (VietnamNews)
... Laos Banana Exports No Longer Pick of the Bunch (Laotian Times)
... One trillion kip [~US$120 mil] in state assets misappropriated in past year (VT)
... Laos-China economic corridor to yield great benefits: Chinese ambassador (VT)
... Vietnam-Laos-Cambodia joint campaign curbs rise in human trafficking (VietnamPlus)
... Sunny Side Up: Getting Your Hands Dirty at Phutawen Sunflower Farm (Laotian Times)
... Ministry to bolster trademark protection (VT)
... Laos plans to develop e-commerce (XinhuaNet)
... Laos’ Economy Continues Well; IMF Report (KPL)
... Japan-backed project to strengthen clean agriculture (VT)
... Lao Airlines Halts Direct Service to Singapore (Aviation Tribune)
... Lao-American Obituary: Khamla Inthavong, 71, St. Louis Park (WJON)
... Bureaucracy, abuse of power top public concerns in Savannakhet (VT)
... Vietnamese, Lao provinces seek to boost cross-border trade (Nhan Dan)
... Laos, Cambodia Strengthen Cooperation On Labour, Social Welfare (KPL)
... New faces and stars blend in Cambodia squad to face Laos, Afghanistan (PPP)
... U-16 Soccer: Malaysia To Face Laos In Jenesys Cup 5th/6th Place Decider (Bernama)
... Australian Ambassador Visits Savannakhet (KPL)
... Lao Food: The Many Faces of Larb (Northern Express)
... Budget approval urgently needed for Laos-China railway (VT)
... 5 Things You Should Know About Vientiane and Laos (AugustMan)
... 18 Lao Students Awarded Japanese Government Scholarships (KPL)
... Laos Prepares To Nominate Lam Vong For World Heritage Listing (KPL)
... KIS Students Win 1st Place At Science And Math Event In Malaysia (KPL)
... Landfill Fire Almost Out, Residents Affected by Toxic Smoke (Laotian Times)
... WHO to provide 20 billion kip (~$2.41 mil) for health sector improvement (VT)
... Vietnam-Laos friendship meeting celebrates Bunpimay New Year (Nhan Dan)
... Irrawaddy dolphin found dead in Stung Treng, near Lao border (Khmer Times)
... #Metoo Movement – An Opportunity for Hmong Women to Advocate Women’s Rights
... Learn a trade, minister advises young people (VT)
... Vietnam - 2nd biggest investor in Laos (VietnamNet)
... New road to ease travel through south Vientiane (VT)
... Lao PM to depart for special Asean-Australia Summit (VT)
... Plans revealed for increasing forest cover to 70 percent (VT)
... Toyota Dram Car Art Contest 2018 Awards Announced (KPL)
... Laos, China sign agreement on building Lao hospital (XinhuaNet)
... Learning to Love Lao Food, One Meaty Noodle Soup at a Time (Yahoo)
... Forest Cover in Laos Climbs To 58%, But Still Behind 2020 Target (KPL)
... Laos' Agro-Forestry GDP Reaches 22 Trillion KIP [~US$2.65 billion] (KPL)
... Air balloon trip in Laos: Drone smacks tourist's girlfriend in the face (Daily Mail)
... Erdogan receives newly appointed Laos, Brunei envoys to Turkey (Daily News)
... Hmong women's advocates see opportunity in momentum of MeToo movement (ST)




March 5-11, 2018



In remote Laos, a warm welcome for a visiting American (Washington Times)
Laos is a beautiful, rural landlocked country in Southeast Asia, roughly the size of Utah and bordered by Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Myanmar and China. Recently, I had the opportunity to visit for the first time. My friend had been teaching English for two years in Savannakhet, a city in western Laos. Fully immersed in the culture, he had fallen off the map a bit and I joked that he
Laos sees fall of int'l visitors [by almost 9%] in 2017 (XinhuaNet)
The number of foreign visitors to Laos totalled 3.86 million in 2017, a drop of 8.73 percent compared to 2016, according to statistics from the Tourist Development Department under Lao Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism. Visitors from Europe dropped by 27 percent to 161,192, while those from the Americas declined by 26 percent to 64,227 in 2017, local daily
China Belt-Road Plan May Create Debt Problems From Djibouti to Laos (Bloomberg)
China’s Belt & Road Initiative creates the potential for debt-sustainability problems in some of the world’s weakest economies, according to the Center for Global Development. The infrastructure project -- aimed at forging new economic links with Europe, Asia and Africa -- puts Djibouti, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, the Maldives, Mongolia, Montenegro, Pakistan, and Tajikistan “at particular risk
Most Residents of Xiangkhouang Province Contaminated by Agri. Chemicals (RFA)
The majority of residents of northeast Laos’ Xiangkhouang province likely contain residue from pesticides or herbicides in their blood, officials confirmed recently, adding that further tests are needed to determine the level of contamination that has affected the public. In January, the Lao Upland Rural Advisory Service (Luras)— a non-government organization (NGO) under Swiss aid
Lao-Americans: Man, woman found shot dead in Providence (Providence Journal)
Vankham Sonevong’s grandson, a 4-year-old boy, had a message for his grandmother late Thursday: he had heard the gunshot and he knew his mom was dead. The boy told his grandmother as soon as she pulled up in the yard outside the family’s longtime home on Jewett Street, the same house where the police recovered the bodies of both a woman and a man who
Other stories about Laos around the world
... Govt vows to bolster workers’ rights (VT)
... Amari opens in Lao resort town (TTR Weekly)
... Fire at Km 32 garbage dump under control (VT)
... Elk Grove’s new mayor cheered by Hmong worldwide (SacBee)
... Huaphan to mark liberation anniversary of key combat zones (VT)
... Economic growth remains bright in medium term: World Bank (VT)
... Mekong River dams could disrupt lives, environment (Science Daily)
... AVANI+ Begins Operations with Luang Prabang, Laos Opening (TTD)
... Yani Srimichai, Trade Attaché, embassy of Thailand in Vientiane (KPL)
... Soccer: Vietnam U16 team beat Laos at ASEAN event  (VietnamNews)
... Women’s advocacy group spreads message about gender equality (VT)
... James Syhabout Wants You to Be More Adventurous When You Eat (Robb Report)
... Top Thai Brands 2018 Event Launches in Laos (LT)
... Preserve natural environment and culture, Lao PM advises (VT)
... Lao gov't to boost women's role in leadership: report (XinhuaNet)
... Job skills improving but higher standards needed: labour minister (VT)
... Farm training the key to helping Laos human trafficking survivors (ABC)
... Illegal, foreign-owned clinics under scrutiny amid public complaints (VT)
... Six Asian-American Memoirs to Read for Women's History Month (NBC)
... Lao President pushes for rural development, increased forest cover (VT)
... First Session Of 13th National People’s Congress Of China Kicks Off (KPL)
... Learning to Love Lao Food, One Meaty Noodle Soup at a Time (Food&Wine)
... Presidential Office Minister Receives New South Korean Ambassador (KPL)
... Dreams on Canvas: Two Female Artists Finding their Voice in Vientiane (LT)
... British author in Thailand puts Laotian detective fiction on the map (Nikkei AR)
... Lao gov't sets agriculture, forestry growth target at 2.8 pct in 2018 (XinhuaNet)
... I am an American: Hmong woman seeks equality through dialogue (USA Today)
... Bo Thao-Urabe is an innovative problem solver and community leader (RollingOut)
... Govt provides more than 2,000 scholarships to encourage university attendance (VT)
... Assistant FM Chen Xiaodong Meets with senior LMC Songkane Luangmuninthone of Laos
... Japan’s University of Tokyo to Build MicroSat Constellation for Laos, Nepal, Other Countries
... Weathermen issue storm warning (VT)
... Miss Vientiane Final Round Scheduled For April 7 (KPL)
... Laos sees improvement in tourism competitiveness (VT)
... Lao Cement Co opens on Lao stock exchange (CemNet)
... Lao Govt to stabilise agriculture, forestry sector growth (VT)
... Laos’s Lush Luang Prabang Has a New Crown Jewel (Yahoo)
... Japan Provides Over US$ 277,000 To Support Agriculture (KPL)
... Lao Govt seeks to boost role of women in country’s leadership (VT)
... Educators to deliver orientation workshop in Laos (Katherine Times)
... Lodkeo Wins First Place In Vientiane International Half Marathon (KPL)
... Thai energy firm EGCO plans $382 mln overseas investment (Eco Times)
... Vietnam, Laos NA ethnic councils seek stronger cooperation (VietnamPlus)
... Hmong veterans of CIA’s war in Laos honored at California Capitol (SacBee)
... Japan funds agriculture, natural resources management in Savannakhet (VT)
... Laos, Korea hail successful labour cooperation (VT)
... Labour Minister Receives New Turkey Ambassador (VT)
... ACWF's Aid to Lao Women's Union Handed over (WOC)
... New terminal at Wattay airport slated for July opening (VT)
... Fire at Vientiane Capital KM32 Landfill Site (Laotian Times)
... Singapore Helps Improve Gov’t Officials’ English Skills (KPL)
... Lao gov't promotes investment in potential projects (XinhuaNet)
... Wattay Aiport Expansion Expected To Be Completed In June (VT)
... Laos and Nepal to ride Japan's microsatellites into space (Nikkei AR)
... DPM calls for greater protection of forests, planting of more trees (VT)
... Laos Preparing Hin Nam No Application for World Heritage Status (VT)
... Hong Kong Adventist Hospital helps set up dental clinic in Laos (Adventist)
... Luxembourg gives funding boost to improve maternal and infant health (VT)
... Laotian arrested for allegedly attempting to traffic drugs into Cambodia (PPP)
... Ecotourism payments for more wildlife sightings linked to conservation benefits in Laos
... China Launches Deep Exploration Of Chinese Culture Programme For Int’l Media (KPL)
... Substandard goods, poor services top complaints made to ministry using public hotline (VT)
... China hands over aid to Lao party (China)
... Ministry slow to tackle land-related issues (VT)
... SilkAir changes Laos flight late March (TTR Weekly)
... Lao-China railway compensation gathers steam (VT)
... Savannakhet hopes history book will entice tourists (VT)
... Laos govt hands over 13 elephants to conservation centre (BB)
... Australia, EU give boost to Lao education with new schools (VT)
... Building bridges between Laos and Thailand for better lives (CNA)
... Wildlife carcasses seized at a border market near Laos (Thai PBS)
... Media get firsthand view of Japan’s development projects in Laos (VT)
... Laotian Man arrested with 30 kg of meth in Stung Treng (Khmer Times)
... All-China Women's Federation's aid to Lao Women's Union handed over (XN)
... China's global trade plan is piling huge debt on smaller nations [i.e. Laos] (CNN)
... Champassak seeks approval for King Fa Ngum statue on new embankment (VT)
... Ministry to reassess centres of education for resumption of bachelor degrees (VT)
... Sean O’Malley Defeats Andre Soukhamthath, Despite Being Unable to Stand (Yahoo)
... Mekong Nations Agree to Share Information to Jointly Manage the Transnational River
... Japanese ambassador: Spread the message about Laos’ charms to Japanese tourists
... Two drug runners arrested in Chiang Rai’s Mae Laos District with 3 million meth tablets
... Lao Cement Public company 1st trading day in Lao Securities Exchange ceremony (XN)




Feb 26-Mar 4, 2018



Budget constraints slow construction of Vientiane provincial capital (VT)
The government’s decision to ban the construction of public offices until 2020 has affected the development of the new capital city planned for Vientiane province, some 100 km north of the Lao capital. Director of the province’s Department of Planning and Investment, Mr Soukkanh Vilaylak, told Vientiane Times on Thursday that less funding than expected had been allocated to
Tourism and development threaten Laos' French traditions (Nikkei AR)
It remains a jewel of French colonial architecture, you can savor some of the best croissants and baguettes east of Paris here, and even toddlers still learn the language of their bygone rulers. Luang Prabang, tucked into a river valley in the heart of Laos, survives as one of the last bastions of the old French Indochina.  But pressing in hard are new waves of eager tourists and investors,
Cambodia, Laos losing the last of their trees (Asia Times)
Despite official pledges to halt the trade, smugglers in Cambodia and Laos are finding ways to illegally ship timber to neighboring Vietnam. The precious hardwood is often used in furniture factories that ship their products largely to China. This lucrative illegal trade in Cambodia has been exposed largely by environmental activists and patrollers who take great risks in attempting
US Congress delegations visit Laos to deepen cooperation (VT)
Two high-level delegations from the US Congress visited Laos from February 21-25 with the aim of promoting friendship and cooperation. The US Congress members met with high ranking officials of the Lao government and discussed progress on bilateral cooperation.  According to a press release from US Embassy in Vientiane, the first delegation, from the House of Rep.
Second Lao Governor Dismissed Over Illegal Logging Claims (RFA)
Lao Prime Minister Thongloun Sisolith has ordered the governor of the country’s northeastern Xieng Khouang province moved from his job to an obscure government post amid renewed efforts to rein in profiteering from the trade in illegal timber, Lao sources say. Somkot Mangnomek was replaced by the deputy secretary-general of the ruling Party’s provincial committee in a hand-over
Other stories about Laos around the world
... Put an end to use of asbestos, Laos advised (VT)
... Better opportunities for Lao workers in Korea (VT)
... Press Tours Projects Funded With Japan’s ODA (KPL)
... Responses to hotline callers too slow, govt bodies told (VT)
... Paediatricians mull solutions to high child mortality rate (VT)
... Lao gov't, int'l NGOs discuss effective cooperation (XinhuaNet)
... Xae Ponglay waterfall in southern Laos a magnet for tourists (BB)
... Laos farmers taught safe chemical use despite organic legacy (ABC)
... Singapore Nanyang Academy Of Fine Arts Study Puppetry In Laos (KPL)
... U.S. Provides New Hospitals In Saravan And New Clinic In Xekong (KPL)
... Singapore Nanyang Academy Of Fine Arts Study Puppetry In Laos (KPL)
... Laos to participate in int'l tourism exhibitions to boost industry (XinhuaNet)
... Kristy Yang, First Hmong American Woman Judge, Will Highlight Madison College...
... Railway compensation gathers steam (VT)
... DJ Sessions: Pop Music From Laos (WBUR)
... Ministry slow to tackle land-related issues (VT)
... Laos Experiencing Low Inflation Rate (Laotian Times)
... Savannakhet hopes history book will entice tourists (VT)
... New Avani+ brand launches in Laos (Business Traveller)
... Lao Govt, INGOs look to more productive cooperation (VT)
... Commission readies report for Convention on the Rights of the Child (VT)
... WFP supports people with disabilities through school meals in Laos (RW)
... Free Eye Checkup Scheduled For Mar. 7 Marking Int’l Women’s Day (KPL)
... Laos’ Report On Implementation Of UN’s Optional Protocols Discussed (KPL)
... Thai Police, NGO Rescue Lao and Cambodian Workers Trafficked For Labor (RFA)
... Why is Asean afraid of China? (Inquirer)
... Global surveys indicate uphill battle for Laos (Nation)
... Ministry reviews mother, child healthcare reform (VT)
... Lessons Exchanged On School Meal Programme (KPL)
... It is worth a look: fascinating caves of Laos (Bobr Times)
... Low inflation rate recorded in Laos: statistics (XinhuaNet)
... Vietnamese co-working space Toong expands to Laos (e27)
... Pay taxes or face closure, thousands of businesses warned (VT)
... Adolescent and Youth Friendly Service Guideline Launched (KPL)
... Laos, Korea Share Experiences In Economic Development (KPL)
... Planners adopt multi-pronged approach to tackle child stunting (VT)
... Laos, Thailand hail joint efforts to upgrade status of Lao workers (VT)
... What’s With the New Cambodia Military Drills Near Laos? (Diplomat)
... Road construction, project bids top concerns about public works (VT)
... David Tymm cycled across Laos for the Mine Advisory Group (Guardian)
... High School Football: Naxaythong Wins Copa Coca Cola Laos 2018 (KPL)
... Laos, Thailand Extend Deadline For Lao Workers’ Status Adjustment To June (KPL)
... Over A Third Of Protected Areas Surveyed Are Severely At Risk Of Losing Tigers (KPL)
... Storm Hits Parts Of Laos (KPL)
... Troops on Laos border undertake live-fire drill (PPP)
... Lao Govt suffers losses from double-funded projects (VT)
... Cambodia holds live-fire exercise near Laos (Khmer Times)
... Economists highlight opportunities, shortcomings of SEZs (VT)
... Laos-Thailand bridge project requires funding (World Highways)
... More females attending school amid gains in gender equality (VT)
... Lao Brewery Continues to Support Football Development with $165K (KPL)
... New Thai-Laotian restaurant zaps Dallas with hot 'n' spicy flavors (Culture Map)
... Alta lifted up a Lao boy (Storm Lake Times)
... Remains of Goldsboro native found in Laos (WITN)
... Mekong countries forge growth plan (Bangkok Post)
... Vietnam, Laos envoys vow close ties (Bangkok Post)
... Lao Bar Now Open in Capitol Hill (Seattle Mag or CHS)
... Dengue fever kills 14 people in Laos last year (XinhuaNet)
... Lao PM Urges Empowering Disadvantaged Children (KPL)
... Lao Prime Minister lauds work of SOS Children Villages (VT)
... Over 3,000 to run Vientiane Half Marathon in Laos (XinhuaNet)
... Vientiane-Pakxe Expressway feasibility study is underway (VT)
... Tech Kids Connect With Schools In Laos, Australia (Cape News)
... Progress on Savannakhet Road No. 9 bridges approaching halfway (VT)
... EPF supports protection of forests, wildlife habitats in seven provinces (VT)
... Competitiveness challenges as labor productivity lags in Laos (China Daily)
... Agreement Reached On Compensation of Railway Project Affected Families (KPL)
... Myanmar inches slightly ahead of Laos (#135) in latest graft index (Myanmar Times)
... Chinese company signs agreement to build elephant protection center in Laos (ECNS)




February 19-25, 2018



Lao Detainee Dies in Custody, Relatives Doubt Official ‘Suicide’ Claim (RFA)
A Lao villager detained since July 2017 in a dispute over village land has died in custody, with relatives challenging Govt claims that the man had killed himself, Lao sources said. Somsavanh, one of a group of 14 villagers in Sekong province held for obstructing workers and cutting down trees on land granted by the Lao Govt to a Vietnamese rubber company, died almost a month ago
Why Laos’ reliance on Chinese money could bankrupt the country (ASEAN Today)
Laos remains on the UN list of least developed nations. The Govt wants the country to graduate from this list. To try to achieve this, it has borrowed money from abroad to fund infrastructure projects. The government’s policy is risking short-term prosperity for long-term gain. The risks outweigh the rewards & Laos is now heading for bankruptcy. Is the government to blame?
A champion biker faces her toughest challenge: clearing bombs from Laos (NBC)
It’s a Sunday morning in January and world champion mountain biker Rebecca Rusch is undertaking her toughest challenge yet. She’s leading a group of 11 other riders along the Ho Chi Minh Trail in Laos — a supply route used by North Vietnam during the Vietnam War — from the town of Phonsavan winding up into the mountains through jungle on the way to the country’s
Xayaboury’s hydropower construction 90% complete (VT or KPL or Nation)
Construction of the Xayaboury run-of-river hydropower project on the Mekong River has been 90 percent completed with commissioning for commercial operation slated for next year, the project developer informed the nation’s President Bounnhang Vorachit on Friday. Mr Bounnhang and his delegation visited the construction site of about US$4 billion project in northwestern Xayaboury
Laos sees marked shift in tourist appeal (Nikkei AR)
It is Saturday afternoon in tourist high season, and Vientiane is very quiet. Most shops are closed for the weekend. A couple of Asian tour groups ascend the Patuxai, the Laotian capital's answer to the Arc de Triomphe. On every floor, stalls are packed with five-year-old photocopies of the Lonely Planet guide to Laos, fake antiques and communist flags, while its female vendors relax in
Other stories about Laos around the world
... Vientiane-Xayaboury travels smooth (BB)
... Hotline helps Govt admin and the public (VT)
... Foreign Minister Receives Japan’s Official (KPL)
... Laotians learn the way to sustainable food security (VT)
... Vientiane’s Don Chan area to blossom as new tourist site (VT)
... Fourteen fatalities recorded last year as dengue fever bites (VT)
... Lao film industry finding its feet on international stage (SEA Globe)
... Lao Govt submitting 15 drafted laws for parliamentary debate (VT)
... Viet Citizen Behind Fraudulent Laokham Company (Laotian Times)
... A lightning strike killed 27 cows of local people in Kenethao district (KPL)
... Kuwait’s 57th Anniversary Of National Day Celebrated In Vientiane (KPL)
... S. Korea Donates US$26,400 Helping Children With Cancer In Laos (KPL)
... Agreement Signed For Vientiane’s Chi Nai Mo Waterworks Expansion (KPL)
... Southern Laos: PDA Signed For Dams Construction in Xekong’s Dak Chung (KPL)
... Town declaration for Luang Prabang’s Phou Khoun (VT)
... Lao workers’ status upgrades in Thailand behind schedule (VT)
... Vientiane International Half Marathon Kicks Off On 4 March (KPL)
... Swift action to fill national coffers called for as Cabinet meets (VT)
... Health sector discusses service excellence, patient satisfaction (VT)
... Lao-American Obituary: Ha Douangmichit -- Rochester (Post Bulletin)
... Phuan festival pays respect to ancestors, bolsters Lao-Thai friendship (VT)
... 4 Firms To Conduct Feasibility Studies For Vientiane-Pakse Highway (KPL)
... Lao-Thai Border: Man arrested for alleged drug smuggling in Nong Khai (Nation)
... National Economic Research Institute urged to conduct studies, keep Govt up to date
... Relaxing among Laos' elusive gibbons (BB)
... China Southern adds Lao route (TTR Weekly)
... Elephant festival in Laos draws jumbo crowd (BB)
... Xayaboury’s Elephant Festival 2018 Launched (KPL)
... Issue of illegally imported cars remains unresolved (VT)
... Vangvieng highlights adventure activities for Pi Mai Lao (VT)
... Lao firms identify high tax rates as investment constraint (VT)
... Concerns over Laos dam's environmental impact (Al Jazeera)
... Massive new tourism development planned for Vangvieng (BB)
... Hongsa-Xiengman road completion rescheduled to end of year (VT)
... Lao-Thai Border: Four arrested with 89,000 meth pills (Bangkok Post)
... Ministry pledges transparent exam system for new State employees (VT)
... Plain of Jars, historical sites prove perennial attractions in Xieng Khuang (VT)
... Elephant Festival held in Laos (Global Times)
... Agriculture focus as vocational skills, standards raised (VT)
... Children’s Hospital, KACLC helping needy kids with cancer (VT)
... Final Round of Miss Vientiane Contest Scheduled For April (KPL)
... Lao musical instrument Khaen declared humanity’s heritage (VT)
... Lao Telecom plans $50m network upgrade to boost services (Nation)
... Health authorities put private clinics, hospitals under microscope (VT)
... Elephant festival draws jumbo crowd (VT)
... Elephant Festival held in Laos (XinhuaNet)
... Xeno market inferno destroys six stalls (VT)
... Laos becomes an adventure center (LA Times)
... Lao Police detain alleged pyramid scam architect (VT)
... Convoy call as caravan promotes Phou Khaokhuay (VT)
... Xieng Khuang reshuffle sees acting governor appointed (VT)
... Nothing as unforgettable as the clever elephants of Laos (BB)
... Laos: Study abroad attractive as degree candidates cross borders (VT)
... Productivity, employment vital as Laos confirmed Asia’s youngest nation (PPP)
... Laos remakes itself as an adventure center, an evolution that serves ... (LA Times)
... Hmong refugees in the US recounts his story of escape from persecution & ethnic cleansing




February 12-18, 2018



Why the Laos Wage Hike Debate Matters (Diplomat)
Efforts by trade unions to increase the minimum wage, only to be resisted by business interests, are a familiar refrain across the world. Indeed, even the socialist state of Lao PDR is not immune. Current negotiations to raise the minimum wage in Laos, consistently one of the poorest countries in Southeast Asia, have seen workers push for an ambitious increase of one-third over the current
Laos: Temporary Suspension of Business Licenses in Certain Industries (Lexology)
Laos has attracted substantial foreign investment in recent years, which has contributed to a surge in the establishment of legal entities, both local and foreign. However, the Lao government has noted that a number of legal entities have not actually been operating business activities in the country, nor have they fulfilled minimum requirements set out in relevant regulations. 
Why the Mekong [i.e. Laos] needs to become a river of democracy (Swiss Info)
Rivers are the lifelines of the world. Their waters crisscross cities, countries and continents. But after a week on the mighty Mekong, our correspondent sees a need for more ‘river democracy’. With the cool dry season reaching its peak, the water levels on the Mekong River have lowered several meters. This makes navigation difficult as the river in its inner Laotian section is full of
Laos, China, Thailand to hold talks on rail link (VT)
Laos, China and Thailand are set to hold talks in moves to ensure the rail systems set to traverse the three countries can link smoothly and efficiently. China will invite Lao authorities to join discussions between Chinese and Thai officials, the Bangkok Post reported citing a source from the Transport Ministry of Thailand. Chinese and Thai authorities agreed on the need to hold
Lao Factory Owners Say Proposed Wage Hike Will Shutter Businesses (RFA)
Owners of garment factories and other businesses in Laos are rejecting a proposal to raise the minimum wage by as much as one-third, saying the increase in expenses would force them to shut down operations, despite reports of workers seeking opportunities elsewhere due to low pay and high living costs. At a meeting last month attended by the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare
Other stories about Laos around the world
... Laos is the Youngest Nation in Asia (Laotian Times)
... Nation’s revenue per tourist lagging neighbours (VT)
... Khmer Soccer: Sovannara locks in Laos (Khmer Times)
... Borikhamxay authorities clamp down on illegal activities (VT)
... Lao Telecom Rakes in LAK 1.84 Trillion ~ $224 million (KPL)
... Nam Ngum: Cruising among Vientiane’s natural attractions (BB)
... Laos seeks Thai support on new Mekong bridge (Bangkok Post)
... New resorts in Malaysia and Laos with wow factor galore (HTSI)
... Author puts Lao coroner-detective on Asian literary map (Nikkei AR)
... Laos becomes the 12th Country to join Consulus Global Network (DT)
... Lao Airlines in talks with Chinese investor on possible joint venture (VT)
... 2017 Destroys Almost 130 UXOs Out of Laos-China Construction Railway (VT)
... Setthathirath, Champassak hospital improvements attract support via Japan (VT)
... Chinese Firm Authorised to Develop Vangvieng Airport as Tourism Complex (KPL)
... Lao-American: Thai restaurant in North Winton Village has a fast casual format (D&C)
... Lao-American: Downtown Triad restaurant with unique flavor prepares for May opening
... Lao Government honours Belarusian diplomat (VT)
... Lao PM’s order pushes public service efficiency (VT)
... WWF Laos Supports Wildlife Law Enforcement (KPL)
... Asean, EU confer on higher education qualifications standards (VT)
... Refugee shared history, culture in 'Hmong 101' (Hutchinson Leader)
... Laos requests Thailand’s financial support for fifth Mekong Bridge (VT)
... Official parties draw on experience to improve round table meeting (VT)
... Attapeu may face decade wait for commercial flights (VT)
... Laos, Thailand cooperate on mobile SIM card registration (VT)
... Laos-Japan Friendship Bridge Opens in S. Laos' Xekong (KPL)
... Attapeu province eyeing private investment to boost growth (VT)
... Nam Ngum riverside, cruising among city’s natural attractions (VT)
... Lao-American Business: Landrum loses a bit of elegance (Tryon DB)
... Phoukhoun District of Luang Prabang Extended Relief Package (KPL)
... Two decades of toil reveals Luang Prabang’s ongoing UXO ordeal (VT)
... Susanna Smith: Perspective on immigration reform [i.e. Lao-Hmong refugees] (NDN)
... Lao-Hmong families fear for spirits of the dead after cemetery moves headstones (FB)
... Over 8,000 Out-of-school Children Benefit from Non-Formal Education Program (KPL)
... New foreign ambassadors take up posts (VT)
... Lao Govt Considers, Approves 10 Draft Laws (KPL)
... Local hotels, tour companies increase cooperation (VT)
... Xayaboury Ready to Celebrate Elephant Festival 2018 (KPL)
... Hundreds of People Celebrate Chinese New Year in Vientiane (KPL)
... Laos-Japan Friendship Bridge spans Xekong development divide (VT)
... Laos-China co-produced TV program promoted in Lao university (XinhuaNet)
... Lao Cabinet approves 10 draft laws (VT)
... Laos to join high-speed rail talks (Bangkok Post)
... Japan Grants JPY 1.9-Billion ($17.7M) Aid to Laos (KPL)
... Japan continues support for Laos’ development course (VT)
... Poor youth startups funding as Union, Ratch Lao ink deal (VT)
... MAF, FAO collaborate on strategy to boost rice production (VT)
... Schools Closed due to Severe Cold Weather in Huaphan (KPL)
... Two Tobacco Companies Asked to Comply with Lao Law (KPL)
... 22 Companies Invest in Thakhek Specific Economic Zone (KPL)
... Lao girl rescued after arranged rape by drug dealer (Bangkok Post)
... 94 Million Kip Provided as Relief Aid for Vietnam’s Disaster Victims (KPL)
... Chinese-invested cement project goes into operation in Laos (XinhuaNet)
... Savannakhet discovery shedding light on ancient elephant, mahout life (VT)
... Chinese cultural show staged in Laos to celebrate Spring Festival (XinhuaNet)
... How are Vietnamese businesses performing in Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar? (VN)





February 5-11, 2018



How to travel Luang Prabang like an interior designer (Vogue)
Appearing on the horizon like a mythical Shangri-La, Luang Prabang’s setting on the old Silk Road in northern Laos could not be more romantic. Surrounded by mountains, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town sits at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, resplendent with Buddhist temples, crumbling French colonial architecture and the remnants of royal Laotian culture
Red pandas rescued in Laos stir fears over exotic pet trade (AFP/Yahoo)
The rescue in Laos of three endangered red pandas trafficked from China has raised fears the rare animals are increasingly being coveted by exotic pet owners. Landlocked Laos, which borders China and Vietnam, is a key transit hub in the global trade in illegal wildlife, but experts say the discovery of red pandas there is virtually unheard of. Six of the cat-sized bears were found on
Debt-ridden Laos living on borrowed money (Aljazeera)
Public debt is estimated at around 68 percent of GDP and almost half of the money is being borrowed from one source - China.  One of the contributing factors was high public debt in the affected countries, including Laos. Now, there are similar warnings about governments in the region borrowing too much money.
Lao Govt hikes 4% more on fuel tax (VT)
The government has imposed more taxes on fuel and other goods and services as authorities increase efforts to collect additional revenue to meet set targets. The Ministry of Finance’s Taxation Department announced recently that the excise tax on super grade gasoline has risen from 35 percent to 39 percent. The excise tax rates on regular gasoline and diesel have also been
Laotians expect Laos-China railway to bring tangible benefits (Global Times)
Laotians are hoping the Laos-China railway will bring more tourists and development opportunities once fully operational, media reports have said. The project will be completed in 2021, and the railway will have a total length of over 414 km linking the Mohan-Boten border gate in northern Laos and the capital. "About three years ago, there were more tourists, but now there aren't as many.
Other stories about Laos around the world
... Laos-China continue labour sector cooperation (VT)
... 3rd Vientiane Furniture Fair Opens Next Month (KPL)
... First group of skilled workers departs for S. Korea (VT)
... France Decorates Figure of Civil Society in Laos (KPL)
... Make the most of Pakxong’s golden land: Lao PM (PPP)
... Vietnam to provide over $2 million for new school in Huaphan (VT)
... Expressway plans attract support among affected landholders (VT)
... ANZ shuts Laos retail products, services in Asia strategy push (Nasdaq)
... Veterans' Stories: Marine provided support for ‘Air America’ in Laos (HT)
... President Urges Health Sector to Raise Quality of Medical Services (KPL)
... Lao ambassador congratulates CPV on founding anniversary (VietnamPlus)
... Restaurant review: Nam Tok Kitchen - Thai cuisine with a Laotian influence (BB)
... Vietnamese food in high demand in Laos ahead of Lunar New Year (VietnamPlus)
... Skip the Pad Thai, Explore the Rest of the Menu at Thai Esan & Noodle House (SC)
... Attapeu authorities crack down on illegal logging (VT)
... Make the most of Pakxong’s golden land: Lao PM (VT)
... Lao President calls for upgrade of health services (VT)
... Tiger traffickers evade police capture in Khammuan (VT)
... Laos: Chinese Investors Need Visa Issues Addressed (KPL)
... ICT in Laos to facilitate China’s Belt and Road plan: official (VT)
... Trade Fair to Promote the Visit Lao Year 2018 Held in Vientiane (KPL)
... Money-laundering warrants pending over Lao brothers’ Bt98m (ThaiVisa)
... Laos, Thailand agree to fight drug trade, boost connectivity (VietnamPlus)
... 'SHARP - Be Original' opened in Laos (KPL)
... Laos, China to Launch Chinese Newspaper (KPL)
... Laos, Thailand Pledge Enhanced Cooperation (KPL)
... KPL, Huawei, Lao Sat link up for media development (VT)
... Health sector review calls for further reform of infant care (VT)
... Laos opens 1st science, technology training center (XinhuaNet)
... Foreign ministers review progress in regional, global affairs (VT)
... Lao province gives green light to eco-friendly tourism (Borneo Bulletin)
... S. Korea to Transfer ICT to Laos, Vietnam and Nepal (Business Korea)
... Australia provides further support for human resource development (VT)
... Lao Workers Leave Laos for Employment Opportunities in S. Korea (KPL)
... Foreign Minister Attends ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Retreat in Singapore (KP)
... WHO Backs Lao Government’s Compliance with Tobacco Control Law (KPL)
... Laos-China railway ‘20.3 per cent complete’, compensation still unpaid (Nation or VT)
... Around the World: More Than 175,000 Children Go Online for the First Time Every day
... Lao Casino Kingpin Zhao Wei Denies US Treasury “Criminal Organization” Designation
... Laos, Vietnam sign 12 deals to broaden cooperation (VT)
... Laos, Cambodia eye popular front cooperation (XinhuaNet)
... Nation’s first science, technology training centre opens (VT)
... Laos, Thailand agree to fight drug trade, boost connectivity (VT)
... Belarus-Laos economic cooperation seen as promising (BelTA)
... Laos, Cambodia development bodies eye future cooperation (VT)
... Agricultural Fires in Vietnam, Laos, Thailand and Cambodia (Eurek Alert)
... Viet PM witnesses signing of 12 cooperation documents with Laos (Nhan Dan)
... Lao Casino Operator Rejects U.S. 'Transnational Criminal Organization' Designation
... Journey along the magnificent Mekong (Times)
... Bokeo gives green light to eco-friendly tourism (VT)
... Laos reviews key achievements with UN support (VT)
... Laos, Thailand partner in digital, ICT development (VT)
... Vietnamese, Lao PMs visit Star Telecom (VietnamPlus)
... Austerity policy slows relocation of government offices (VT)
... China rail project to link landlocked Laos to Asia (Aljazeera)
... Vietnamese, Lao government offices boost ties (Nhan Dan)
... Belt, road forum realises Laos-China cooperation (VT or KPL)
... Vientiane meeting tackles regional chemical management (VT)
... Laos-China Belt and Road Cooperation Forum kicks off (Nation)
... Lao president meets Xinhua News Agency president (XinhuaNet)
... First China, Laos co-produced movie debuts in Laos (Info Surhoy)
... Ministry disseminates decree on well-being, development criteria (VT)
... Education ministry working towards Asean qualification standards (VT)
... Remove unnecessary barriers to improve business climate, DPM says (VT)
... Vietnamese, Lao PMs attend training centre’s inaugural ceremony (Nhan Dan)
... Hmong language learning program helps students find their voice (Madison Commons)
... Check out the menu for Lao restaurant Snackboxe Bistro, opening tomorrow in Doraville




Jan. 29-Feb. 4, 2018



Letters from Abroad: Learning From the People of Laos (Dickinsonian)
Over winter break, I had the opportunity to travel to Vientiane, Laos and Siem Reap, Cambodia, along with 10 other students, two student trip leaders and two administrators. We spent the majority of our time in Laos helping out at a school for vocational skills. This school offers classes in English and motorcycle repairs, two skills very useful in a country where work is often difficult to
The Woven Art of Laos (New York Times)
The outdoor workroom in a lush garden not far from the mighty Mekong River seems a world apart from Paris. A dozen Laotian women talk among themselves as the city traffic from the streets of Vientiane swirls by. Their wooden shuttles make a soft slithering sound as they hand weave large swathes of silk fabric in rich colors on handcrafted looms. Well before the success of handmade
US declares Laos casino operators a criminal network (ABC, AFP/MSN, or Reuters)
The United States is declaring the Zhao Wei network that operates a casino in Laos to be a transnational criminal organization. The Treasury Department imposed sanctions Tuesday on four individuals and three companies across Laos, Thailand and Hong Kong, freezing any U.S. assets and prohibiting Americans from dealing with them.  Treasury officials say the Kings Romans
Beware the Destruction of Civil Society in Laos (Diplomat)
If you were to survey articles that focus on the human rights situation in Laos, you’ll be hard pressed to find one that does not reference the “disappearance” of Sombath Somphone, an internationally acclaimed civil society leader who was kidnapped from the streets of Vientiane in late 2012. Leaked CCTV footage shows him being stopped by the police before being taken to
Wild elephant illegally crosses China-Laos border (New Daily)
A wild Asian elephant has caused a stir on the border between China and Laos when it casually flouted immigration control and stepped over the barrier between the two countries. Taking advantage of the dark, the animal moved out of China’s southwestern Yunnan Province and crossed into neighbouring Luang Matha in Laos in the early hours of Saturday morning.
Other stories about Laos around the world
... No Thais linked to Laos casino crimes (Bangkok Post)
... Lao-American Obituary: Savay Sounnarath (Storm Lake)
... Huaphan listing additional tourism sites to lure visitors (VT)
... Mekong River Commission to revise dam guidelines (PPP)
... Blind Children School, National Chess Federation Get Help (KPL)
... Laos reckoning on Luxembourg support with number crunching (VT)
... Japan Further Supports Empowerment of Disabled People in Laos (KPL)
... Five-year GMS environmental agenda endorsed (Bangkok Post or Nation)
... New artefact conservation centre planned for Vat Phou Champassak (VT)
... Developer asked to provide more details of planned complex in Vangvieng (VT)
... Japan Supports Pediatric Project in Huaphan (KPL)
... Almsgiving draws devotees to Vat Phou festival (VT)
... Laos, U.S. Cooperate to Prepare for Natural Disasters (KPL)
... Vietnam PM to visit Laos for inter-governmental meeting (VT)
... Lao Govt resolves illegal import of thousands of vehicles (VT)
... DVV International Donates Equipment to Rural Schools (KPL)
... Asean Tourism Forum sees ministers chart path for growth (VT)
... Mekong River Commission Launches Website for Its 3rd Summit (KPL)
... No Thai shareholders in blacklisted Laos casino operation, say Thai drugs' authorities (TV)
... Why you should visit Laos (Femina)
... Tripartite meeting held to discuss minimum wage raise (KPL)
... Planned north-south transport road links encounter delays (VT)
... Hungary provides US$160 million loan for three projects (VT or KPL)
... Savannakhet authorities plan restoration of That Nang Lao stupa (VT)
... U.S. Embassy, Companies Support First-ever Lao Digital Forum (KPL)
... Lao Ford City gives Ford Ranger and Ford Fiesta car to customers (KPL)
... Mongolian assistance energises Xieng Khuang’s fight against poverty (VT)
... Laos provides financial relief for typhoon-hit people in Vietnam (VietnamPlus)
... Viet PM to co-chair Vietnam-Laos Inter-Governmental Committee meeting (Nhan Dan)
... Japan’s Uni. Studies If Xieng Khuang Is Ready for Its Renewable Energy Technology (KPL)
... Russia shares global situation with Laos (VT)
... Golden Triangle Checkpoint Building Kicks off (KPL)
... Asean journalists’ confederation gains new member (VT)
... S. Laos' Sekong Expects to Attract 50,000 Tourists (KPL)
... Experts mull new ways to address malnutrition in Laos (VT)
... Thai palm oil trader looks to produce biodiesel in Laos (BFD)
... Borikhamxay conducts ongoing clampdown against illegal logging (VT)
... Vietnamese expats in Laos work to strengthen solidarity (VietnamPlus)
... hampassak holds annual Vat Phou festival to promote Visit Laos Year (VT)
... Lao-Khmer Soccer: Boeung Ket surrender lead to settle for a draw (Khmer Times)
... Savannakhet Launches Visit Laos Year 2018 and That Phone Stupa Festival (KPL)
... Laos adventure (Gisborne Herald)
... Minimum wage hike still problematic (VT)
... Gender Minister concludes Laos trip (AVAS)
... RHB Bank Lao Opens Dongdok Branch (KPL)
... India Dependence Day Marked in Vientiane (VT)
... Bananacoin funds Laotian farm expansion (FFP)
... Kapok flower festival bolsters tourism in Bokeo (VT)
... Lao PM attends Indian Republic Day celebrations (VT)
... India, Laos discuss development aid, trade (Statesman)
... BK face their Lao contenders in AFC Cup (Khmer Times)
... Chinese gov’t provides grant for upgrade of Lao TV-3 (VT)
... HCM City, Laos seek measures to boost trade (Vietnam IR)
... PM Modi, Laotian counterpart hold bilateral talks (New Kerala)
... Lao gov't targets 2 pct unemployment rate in 2018 (XinhuaNet)
... Wisconsin students celebrate Hmong language, culture (WDN)
... OPG turns focus to Laos for oil palm plantation (Bangkok Post)
... The Future of Laos Automobile Markets to 2023 (Sat PR News)
... AAI, Lao PDR Sign Civil Aviation Cooperation Agreement (DAP)
... Red Pandas Captured in Laos Pointing to Illegal Pet Trade (WPP)
... Gov’t to assist young graduates with employment opportunities (VT)
... Vietnamese, Lao national universities foster exchanges (VietnamNet)
... Work underway to elevate Hin Nam Nor to World Heritage status (VT)
... Lao leader hosts Vietnamese Minister of Public Security (VietnamNet)
... China, Laos sign agreement on TV channel upgrade project (XinhuaNet)
... Exchange held to mark successful Vietnam-Laos friendship year (VietnamPlus)
... Exchange held to mark successful Vietnam-Laos friendship year (VietnamPlus)
... 86-MW Nam Phay hydropower project in Lao PDR officially commissioned (HW)
... Nomination of Hin Nam No as Laos’ 1st Transboundary World Heritage Gets Into Gear (KPL)




January 22-28, 2018



Thai navy says 11 million pill haul a record from Laos (AFP/Yahoo)
Thailand's navy has seized 11 million meth pills from traffickers crossing from Laos via the Mekong River, a record bust from a communist state that is emerging as a key Asian drug route. Authorities pounced as the boat landed in Nakhon Phanom on the Thai side of the Mekong, which acts as a natural border with Laos. Poor and remote, Nakhon Phanom is a notorious hub for
Bid to ease hydro dam threats on the Mekong (Khmer Times)
Guidelines for mitigating the environmental impact and managing risks of hydropower dams in the Mekong River will be established at the end of March 2018 after discussion between Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam. Forty-five officials from the four countries have been meeting in Vientiane this week to discuss the guidelines. According to statement from the Mekong River
Where Are Russia-Laos Military Ties? (Diplomat)
This week, Russia’s defense minister paid a visit to Laos as part of a wider Southeast Asia tour. His trip put the spotlight on Russia-Laos military ties, which have been developing in recent years as part of the broader relationship between the two countries. Laos and Russia have long had a close defense relationship that extends across several realms, including military education, law
Drug production in Laos and Myanmar still a major threat (Stragetist)
In December 2017, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) released its latest report on opium production in Myanmar and, at face value, the news was good. Since 2015, the area of cultivated opium poppy in Myanmar’s Shan and Kachin states has decreased by 25% to 41,000 hectares. And, for good measure, heroin seizures in China, Cambodia and Thailand
‘Tiger Farms’ Still Operate in Laos, Defying Trafficking Bans (RFA)
Three tigers were found killed near a protected forest zone in Laos early this week, drawing renewed attention to the presence in the country of so-called tiger farms, where the animals are kept for sale in spite of wildlife trafficking bans, sources say. The dead animals were discovered by forestry officials in an area near the Nam Theun 2 dam in Khammouane province’s Nhommalath
Other stories about Laos around the world
... Laos, China ink deal on plant protection (VT)
... Japan supports Vientiane irrigation improvement (VT)
... C. Laos' Khammuan kicks off Visit Laos Year 2018 (VT)
... Epson Launches New Models of Products in Laos (KPL)
... Laos to Have Digital Society Foundation Built by 2030 (KPL)
... Nam Ngiep 1 Construction to Be Completed This Year (KPL)
... 21ST ASEAN Tourism Ministers’ Meeting Held in Thailand (KPL)
... Laos, Luxembourg to jointly manage maternal health projects (VT)
... Lao Officials Begin Probe of Red Panda Trafficking Incident (RFA)
... Laos pushes for greater Asean-India cooperation (Eleven Myanmar)
... HCM City’s top leader continues working visit to Laos (VietnamPlus)
... Vietnam, Laos work to ensure quality of Lao NA House (VietnamPlus)
... Laos calls for investments in Savan Seno special economic zone (VietnamPlus)
... Luxembourg to Provide US$ 350,000 for Anti-Disaster and UXO Efforts in Laos (KPL)
... Lao Food Festival 2018 Launched (KPL)
... ICT businesses urged to drive economy (VT)
... Lao Govt seeks better regulation of associations (VT)
... Luang Prabang to receive Asean award for cleanliness (VT)
... Ministry’s new recruits to target improved mother, child health (VT)
... CTE expands reach in Laos, Cambodia, Indonesia (Rapid TV News)
... Saymoukda Vongsay receives grants for refugee musical (AA Press)
... Lao Govt pushing to realise cooperation projects with Vietnam, China (VT)
... Public Debt Management, Added-Value Tax Draft Laws Brainstormed (KPL)
... Civil Society Groups in Laos Delayed Funding, Forced to Disband Under New Law
... AsianDate Shares its Most Spectacular Excursions to Visit from the Beautiful Vientiane
... Minister to PM’s Office Attends ASEAN-India Business and Investment Meeting and Expo
... Health insurance fund is failing patients (VT)
... Ministry encouraging use of local online domain (VT)
... Vientiane's road awaits green light for completion (VT)
... ASEAN meeting synchronising safe pesticide levels (VT)
... Jiangsu Tourism Promotion Meeting Held in Vientiane (KPL)
... Forced labor still rampant in Thai fishing industry (Brinkwire)
... Car rally revs up friendship, trade between India, ASEAN (VT)
... What Did the Laos-Cambodia Security Meeting Achieve? (Diplomat)
... Ho Chi Minh City leader reiterates priority to ties with Laos (VietnamPlus)
... Lao-Khmer Border: Nong Nonkhiane Pledges Faster Service for Tourists (KPL)
... Lao-Australian: Fatigued driver slapped with a driving ban after crashing into a car, wall...
... Lao PM to attend Asean-India Summit (VT)
... Laos, Russia extend defence cooperation (VT)
... New Japanese Volunteers Welcomed in Vientiane (KPL)
... Mongolia to Provide 1,000 Sheep to Xieng Khuang (KPL)
... ‘Lao Night’ being hosted for 500 Asean guests in Thailand (VT)
... NA President calls on judiciary to tackle laxity within its ranks (KPL)
... President calls for Lao People’s Army to strengthen its resolve (VT)
... Lao-American: La Grande woman escaped communism (Observer)
... “Eighteen 18”, Collagen Product, Introduced to Lao Health Lovers (KPL)
... FLEGT Process Supports PM Order No.15 Reinforcing Forest Governance for Legal Trade
... Xeno airport project slow to take off (VT)
... New road creates linkages in the south (VT)
... A secret warrior's secret war in Laos (Stripes)
... 4th Japan Festival to Be Held Next Month (KPL)
... Vangvieng to have emergency rescue station (VT)
... Laos, UNICEF to continue close collaboration (VT)
... LXML Supports Environmental Monitoring in Laos (KPL)
... S. Laos' Xekong bridge to officially open next month (VT)
... Laos affirms support for successful APPF-26 (VietnamPlus)
... Seven companies eye investment in Vientiane expressway (VT)
... More than 200 markers installed along Laos-Thailand border (VT)
... Vientiane vows to improve investment climate to drive growth (VT)
... Lao-Thai Border: ‘Kingpin’ in Asian wildlife trafficking arrested (BB)
... S. Laos' Attapeu market fire caused by electrical short circuit: officials (VT)
... Poor Administration, Infrastructure Fetter Laos’ Growth (AEC News Today)
... PM Thongloun to Attend ASEAN-India Commemorative Summit in New Delhi (KPL)
... Necessaries Donated to Infantry Division 1 and Nalongkuang Secondary School (KPL)




January 15-21, 2018



Endangered red pandas seized from smuggler in Laos, largest rescue... (ABC)
Six endangered red pandas have been seized by authorities in Laos after being smuggled across the Chinese border.  The animals were discovered by chance during a random inspection of a van traveling from the Chinese border into northern Laos and handed over to the Provincial Office of Forestry Inspection. Sadly, three of the six who were in critical condition have since died, despite
Plain of Jars on track for UNESCO listing next year (VT)
Lao authorities will submit documentation to UNESCO by the end of this month for the Plain of Jars in Xieng Khuang province to be added to the world heritage list after the government approved related documents last year.  The UNESCO vetting process is expected to take about 18 months, according to the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism. The site comprises 11 locations
Laos to sell electricity to Myanmar: official (XinhuaNet or VietnamPlus)
Laos and Myanmar are mulling an electricity agreement to empower Laos' development needs, local daily Vientiane Times quoted a senior Lao official as saying on Tuesday.  "Myanmar wants to purchase about 100-200 MW, but that will depend on the results of their feasibility study," Daovong said.  "At present it's not clear when we will start selling electricity under this program and at what
Chiang Rai locals still oppose Lao hydropower dam after meet with Laos (Nation)
LAOS AUTHORITIES and the developer of the Pak Beng hydropower dam project failed in a meeting yesterday to relieve concerns of local people living along the Mekong River in Thailand about the impacts of a dam now under construction on the river. At the end of the meeting, local people said they did not believe that the proposed mitigation measures would significantly reduce
Other stories about Laos around the world
... Laos: Visit Year to the rescue? (TTR Weekly)
... Lao PM Thongloun Visits Infantry Division 1 (KPL)
... Bokeo hot springs to go on the boil for visitors (VT)
... Shuttle Bus Service Launched for Airport Goers (KPL)
... Focus on self-development, radio presenters urged (VT)
... Laos Goods Week to be held in HCM City (VietnamNews)
... Vientiane villagers lodge complaint over factory pollution (VT)
... Ministries issue advertising ban on Gentiko herbal product (VT)
... Vice Premier Pays Guidance Visit to Kommadam Academy (KPL)
... Top-52: Luang Prabang named ‘a place to go’ in 2018 by NYT (VT)
... Tambon Natan to be site of sixth Thai-Lao Friendship bridge (Nation)
... Nam Phou developer turns spotlight on history for Visit Laos Year (EM)
... Laos Market remains “hidden” after all these years (Las Vegas Weekly)
... Two North Korean Defectors Drown As Boat Capsizes On Mekong (CRT)
... 6th Thai-Lao friendship bridge going through feasibility study, design: official (XN)
... Dansavanh Amateur Open 2018 Held (KPL)
... Laos, Cambodia Meet on Security Issues (KPL)
... New Laos highway connecting key cities (WHW)
... Laos, Vietnam push for realisation of key projects (VT)
... Lao & Taiwan-Americans: Police charge 3 men with capital 
    murder of Houston couple 'executed' at home (FoxNews)
... Lao-Hmong in US Obituary: Ka Ying Lee (Cassville Democrat)
... People’s prosecutor vows ongoing improvements to justice (VT)
... Lao-Thai railway extension project inks deal with consulting company (VT)
... Dansavanh Nam Ngum Resort Records Increased Number of Visitors (KPL)
... Xieng Khuang plans to restore wartime bomb shelters for visitor viewing (VT)
... Indochinese Defence Ministers Agree to Further Enhance Trilateral Co-op (KPL)
... Master Plan Discussed for Plain of Jars Application for World Heritage Status (KPL)
... Chef James Syhabout and Anthony Bourdain on the secrets behind Lao cuisine (CBS)
... Lao Wood Furniture Fair 2018 Kicks off (KPL)
... Myanmar, Laos to increase cooperation (Mizzima)
... Interior minister to visit Laos for talks (Khmer Times)
... Laos, Japan give education boost to rural students (VT)
... Laos, Slovakia ink financial cooperation agreement (VT)
... Are China’s Investment Taking over the Mekong? (CRT)
... Laotian restaurant opening in Greensboro (Greensboro)
... Laos Actively Prepares To Welcome Tourists (Bernama)
... Luang Prabang touting three rural idylls to lure visitors (VT)
... Laos assures riverside Thais on dam impact (Bangkok Post)
... VN treasures ties with Laos: Defence Minister (VietnamNews)
... On alert for drones as Laos PM visits Myanmar (Straits Times)
... Lao Govt, UNDP assess progress towards development goals (VT)
... Dialogue on Pakbaeng Hydropower Project begins (Eleven Myanmar)
... MMG Lane Xang Minerals Extends Support to Savannakhet Rescue (KPL)
... Lao PM Thongloun Visits Myanmar to Enhance Ties and Cooperation (KPL)
... Lao NA President urges administrators to bolster skills of office personnel (VT)
... Laos Pak Beng Dam Officials Fail to Address Concerns of Mekong Residents (CRT)
... CK Power seeks another hydropower deal in Laos (Nation)
... Pledge to increase Laos defence cooperation (Khmer Times)
... Administrators give advice on government office operations (VT)
... Myanmar, Laos reach MoUs on sectoral cooperation (XinhuaNet)
... Major road upgrade in Vientiane province set to create int’l link (VT)
... Hotline callers offer suggestions to improve vocational education (VT)
... 104 telecom fraud suspects returned to China from Laos (XinhuaNet)
... Laos, Myanmar vow to cement ties, sign three cooperation deals (VT)
... Dien Bien holds services for soldier remains found in Laos (VietnanPlus)
... Vietnamese workers die at hydropower dam site in Laos (Vietnam Express)
... Two North Korean Defectors Drown As Boat Capsizes On Mekong (Koogle)
... Lao Border: Thai navy seizes 100 rosewood logs felled in northeastern Thailand (XN)
... Gov’t chief affirms continued support for Laos' socioeconomic development in 2018 (VN)
... State's 1st Hmong-American judge on Journey from Laos to Minnesota's Judicial System
... Cassava farmers await payment five years on (VT)
... US gives boost to English language instruction (VT)
... Northern provinces prove more popular with visitors (VT)
... Vientiane People’s Council mulls anti-social activities (VT)
... United States expands assistance for UXO clearance (VT)
... China Pours Billions in Aid and Investment Into Laos (RFA)
... Govt to submit Hin Nam Nor for UNESCO listing next year (VT)
... Chinese firm plans massive development at Khonphapheng SEZ (VT)
... Laos, Cuba Pledge to Strengthen Cooperation on Foreign Affairs (KPL)
... Will costs continue to cage Laos’ regional connectivity? (East Asia Forum)
... U.S. Provides 15 New Vehicles to UXO Lao for Clearance Operations (KPL)




January 8-14, 2018



In Laos, People Are Recycling Bombs from the Vietnam War into Jewelry (VICE)
Nearly 78 million bombs are sitting unexploded in the soil of Laos around villages, school grounds, rice fields, and roads— a deadly result of being one of the most heavily bombed countries per capita in the world. Most of the ordnance is leftover from the Vietnam War when the U.S. Government attempted to disrupt North Vietnamese traffic on the famed Ho Chi Minh Trail.
Travelogue: Laos - Dams in Southeast Asia (Hood River News)
In the United States, the era of big dam building ended some 30 years ago. That’s primarily because most of the best dam sites are already utilized and we’ve become much more aware of the environmental problems associated with dams. In the developing world, dam building is just getting started. River systems in Latin America, Africa, China, Southeast Asia, and Eastern Europe
Laos dances to survive between China and Vietnam (Asia Times)
With its sparse 6.7 million population, land-locked Laos is often cast as a passive victim of pell-mell Chinese expansionism, a rich source of raw materials its giant neighbor craves & a virtual truck stop on the way to Thailand and the more prosperous countries of mainland Southeast Asia. Already forging ahead with the 414-kilometer Kunming-Vientiane railway, China now seems intent
800 billion kip ($96.4 mil) declared lost to PS Lao Enterprise (VT)
More than 30,000 people have declared that they deposited a combined 800 billion kip with PS Lao Enterprise after the company unlawfully solicited money from them, authorities said yesterday. The declaration was made after a task force committee, established by the government to deal with the case, issued an announcement asking victims to declare their losses.
Govt approves more funds ($7.2 mil) for road building in Xaysomboun (VT)
The government has approved a budget of 60 billion kip for 2018 to pay for ongoing road projects in Xaysomboun province and ensure they are completed as planned. Under the arrangement, installments will be paid to the contractors this year to enable them to fast-track construction of the three roads costing 924 billion kip, which will link Xaysomboun to other provinces.
Other stories about Laos around the world
... Public park planned for city’s riverside (VT)
... Laos: “A Traditional Holiday Spot” (Teton Gravity)
... Lao PDR rail project makes progress (TTR Weekly)
... Laos to Co-host MLC Meeting Next Two Years (KPL)
... Prime Minister Thongloun to Visit Myanmar on Jan 15-16 (KPL)
... Punishment of errant judges critical, People’s Council hears (VT)
... Singapore photographer shares techniques with Lao students (BB)
... Lao-American Owner: Thai Palace in Holland closed until further notice (HS)
... Lao PM holds talks with Chinese, Vietnamese, Cambodian counterparts (VT)
... HCM City, Laos officials share experiences in land management (Vietnam News)
... Concrete data, statistics necessary for “Three Builds” directive assessment (VT)
... Lao-Hmong: Young woman fights to reclaim ‘my worth and my story’ after sexual assault
... Lao forests remain under threat (VT)
... Hotel: Avani to Open in Laos in March (HD)
... Defence ministers to meet in Laos (Khmer Times)
... Lao-Thai Sake:  What Is Snake Whiskey? (Daily Meal)
... Soccer: Xaybandith Rasphone Resigned from LFF (KPL)
... Savannakhet community reaches development milestone (VT)
... Vientiane vows to exceed 10 percent GDP growth in 2018 (VT)
... Minor Hotels launches Mekong Kingdoms luxury cruises (TBN)
... China will maintain cooperation with Laos: premier (XinhuaNet)
... China, Asia leaders discuss Mekong dam projects (AP/MH or VT)
... China, Laos inaugurate joint lab for renewable energy study (ECNS)
... Foreign-owned hospitals ordered to improve treatment standards (VT)
... Truckload of Rosewood Logs Seized in Laos as Smuggling Continues (RFA)
... N. Laos: Nam Ha Protected Area Remains Beautiful Refreshing Nature (KPL)
... Mekong countries pledge more cooperation as demands on river grow (Reuters)
... 2nd Mekong-Lancang Cooperation Leaders’ Meeting Kicks Off in Cambodia (KPL)
... Airport bus service to start next week (VT)
... Xayaboury rice festival attracts record crowd (VT)
... Vietnam, Laos share law-making experience (VietnamPlus)
... Temperature Forecasted to Drop by 2-4 Degree Celsius (KPL)
... ‘Border residents’ roam freely between China and Laos (People)
... 18 entertainment venues to be moved further from university (VT)
... WFP commits to further support for school meals programme (VT)
... Laos-China Hi-Speed Railway Construction Progresses 16% (KPL)
... Laos-Thai & Sushi, Fried Rice 2 open on Towson Avenue (Arkansas News)
... Lao Vice President calls for reinforced governance, public administration (VT)
... Armenia's Karen Grigoryan wins Laos Open Chess Championship (Pan Armanian)
... JICA Volunteers Bid Farewell to Laos (KPL)
... Ministry’s plans aim to raise education standards (VT)
... Chinese Investors Launch Multimillion Dollar Project (KPL)
... Hunterdon company, church to build school in Laos (HCD)
... Teaching diplomas to be upgraded to bachelor degrees (VT)
... Nam Ngum reservoir plan seeking to shore up investors (VT)
... Vientiane Organic Growers’ Groups Enjoy Constant Growth (KPL)
... Power stacked against SE Asia's poor as China dams Mekong (My Sinchew)
... AsianDate Announces Peaceful Vientiane in Laos as its First City of the Month for Jan 2018
... Health ministry targets MDG, SDG success (VT)
... Huge timber haul up for tender in Xieng Khuang (VT)
... Oudomxay prepares Chom Ong cave for visitors (VT)
... Lancang-Mekong countries set to enhance cooperation (VT)
... Former Lao president speaks highly of Laos-China ties (ECNS)
... Minnesota swears in state's first Hmong-American judge (Star Tribune)
... Lao-American Obituary: Hackmany “Kim” Kongphongmany (Daily Iberian)
... Vietnamese company resumes construction of northern Lao airport (XinhuaNet)
... Vietnam cops seize $3m heroin hidden in tea packets smuggled from Laos (MSN)
... Modelling agency partners with volunteer group to raise funds for rural school (VT)
... 1st American Laotian graduates highest noncommissioned officer US Army School (DVIDS)




January 1-7, 2018



Laos’ economic growth may reach 7 percent in 2018: expert (VietnamPlus or XN)
Laos could reach an economic growth of 7 percent in 2018, but needs to speed up mega projects, a Lao economist has said. According to the Xinhua news agency of China, Leeber Leebouapao from the National Economic Research Institute told Vientiane Times that the further progress of mega projects would serve as the main driver for economic growth amid the government's
Lao expressway to stretch to China: official media (ECNS or KPL)
The Vientiane-Vangvieng expressway to be extended to China will lift up a new face of transport system in Laos, state-run Lao News Agency (KPL) reported on Wednesday. According to the KPL report, the Vientiane-Vangvieng expressway is part of the mega Laos-China Expressway Project, which will link the Lao capital Vientiane with Boten in Luang Namtha on the Laos-China border.
Revolutionary monument to CIA’s fall in Laos (Asia Times)
Half a century after North Vietnamese sappers scaled sheer 200-meter cliffs in the dead of night to overrun a strategic US Air Force radar installation on the western rim of Phou Pha Thi, the Lao government is finally opening the towering limestone massif to domestic and apparently foreign tourists. Once locked in remote jungle fastness, northeast Laos’ tallest peak is a scenic attraction
William & the vile tiger lie: Prince praised Laos for closing horrific big cat farms (DM)
When the country at the heart of Asia's brutal wildlife trade promised to shut down its tiger farms, Prince William and conservationists worldwide hailed it as a watershed moment in the battle to save the species. The Prince personally congratulated officials from Laos on their landmark decision to abolish the money-spinning farms where tigers are bred in pitiful conditions to be
Other stories about Laos around the world
... Work resumes on enlarged Huaphan airport (VT)
... Cave’s Buddha statues attract crowds of tourists (VT)
... First-class travel down the Mekong River to Laos (C&IT)
... Savannakhet stupa festival to take place this month (VT)
... HCM City treasures friendship with Lao localities (VietnamPlus)
... Departing JICA volunteers reflect on their experiences in Laos (VT)
... Laos urges foreign tour operators to hire local tour guides (XinhuaNet)
... Lao, Chinese Investors Join Hands to Increase Steel Production (KPL)
... President Tran Dai Quang receives Lao supreme court chief (VietnamNet)
... With its Environmental Crisis, is Laos Missing the Forest for the Trees? (Diplomat)
... Laos could sustain growth by promoting mega projects in 2018: economist (XinhuaNet)
... Utilise local tour guides or face penalties, foreign tour operators in Laos warned (Nation)
... The Love of Luang Prabang (Billionaire)
... Vientiane kicks off Visit Laos Year with a bang (VT)
... Phabun Cave, Beautiful Natural Attraction in Vangvieng (KPL)
... 29 Killed in Road Accidents during New Year Celebration (KPL)
... Lao Food: It's Appe-thai-zing at Nam Tok Kitchen (Bend Source)
... Remove barriers to business, tour operators urge government (VT)
... Overweight penalties decline at Luang Namtha truck checkpoint (VT)
... Thailand, Burma and Laos in tri-nation haze battle plan (DVB or CRT)
... Govt issues decree on allowances for disadvantaged schoolchildren (VT)
... Oudmxay to spotlight temple, resort, ethnic festival for Visit Laos Year (VT)
... Vietnam investments boost Laos’ socio-economic development (VietnamPlus)
... Multiple Mekong forums risk igniting rivalry (Nation)
... China injects $3.4 mil for Mekong-Lancang projects (VT)
... Regional highway brings prosperity to Laos’ northwest (EM)
... Savannakhet turns spotlight on infrastructure development (VT)
... S. Laos' Xekong launches Visit Laos Year at colourful event (VT)
... Laos Establishes Diplomatic Relations with 140 Countries (KPL)
... Ministry planning to curb teacher transfers to private schools (VT)
... Scientists Discover 115 New Species in Greater Mekong Region (KPL)
... Compensation Plans For Lao Rail Project Finalized, Under Review (RFA)
... Laos Announces Unilateral Visa Exemption for 4 European Countries (KPL)
... China, Laos sign agreement on Lancang-Mekong cooperation fund (XinhuaNet)
... Route 3 Helps Improve Living Standards in N. Laos' Remote Luang Namtha (KPL)
... Govt mulls fairer compensation policy for people affected by development projects (VT)
... Is Mekong River set to become the new South China Sea for regional disputes? (SCMP)
... Three major towns to be declared as cities (VT)
... Food prices remain stable throughout 2017 (VT)
... Laos film festival nurtures big screen dreams (Nikkei AR)
... Vientiane joins the world in giving rousing welcome to 2018 (VT)
... Champassak People’s Council debates development issues (VT)
... Golf: Dansavanh Amateur Open 2018 to Be Held Next Month (KPL)
... Vangvieng spearheads Vientiane province’s tourism campaign (BB)
... Jerry Davis: Laotian in Wisconsin's outdoors on fact-finding mission (WSJ)
... Hundreds to be compensated for losses when Vientiane expressway built (VT)
... People from China, Laos, Vietnam celebrate ball throwing carnival (XinhuaNet)
... Lao PM Urges Reducing Education Gap between Urban and Rural Areas (KPL)
... Teen sisters in Laos tied up, locked out of house by family for converting to Christianity






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