Vientiane, October 15 – Over 150 representatives from the Bank of Lao PDR and local financial institutions gathered for a workshop on green finance, co-organized with the International Finance Corporation (IFC). The event focused on developing Laos' green finance taxonomy, establishing green lending guidelines, and integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) risk management. The initiative is part of Phase II of the Laos Green Finance Project and aligns with ASEAN and international standards.

Deputy Governor Soulivath Souvannachoumkham emphasized the importance of sustainable finance in building a greener economy, highlighting Laos' vulnerability to climate change and its commitment to global climate initiatives like the Paris Agreement. The workshop featured discussions on global green finance trends and the role of financial institutions in driving the transition to a low-carbon economy.

IFC’s Christina Ongoma underscored the critical timing of the workshop, noting the opportunities and challenges posed by climate change and urging financial institutions to collaborate in advancing sustainable finance in Laos.

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