Laos Elects Saleumxay Kommasith as Prime Minister in Major Leadership Reshuffle
Laos' National Assembly has elected veteran diplomat Saleumxay Kommasith as prime minister, replacing Sonexay Siphandone, who becomes president of the legislature. The leadership change comes as the country seeks to strengthen international economic ties and regional cooperation during its recovery from the pandemic.
Laos Reports Inflation Near 8% as Food Shortages and Fuel Costs Pressure Households
Laos' new prime minister has told the National Assembly that average inflation remains close to 8%, driven partly by fluctuating fuel prices and pork shortages linked to African swine fever. The government is reviewing measures to stabilise prices and ease pressure on households and businesses.
Laos-China Railway Freight Volumes Jump 62% as Regional Trade Expands
Freight volumes on the Laos-China Railway increased by more than 62% in early 2026, according to official trade figures. The growth highlights rising demand for cross-border transport and expanding opportunities for Lao and Thai exporters using the regional rail network.
Thailand and Laos Advance $55 Million Bridge Project Near Luang Prabang
Thailand and Laos are finalising financing arrangements for an $55 million bridge spanning 800 metres between Chomphet district and Luang Prabang. The project aims to improve transport connections, support regional trade and make tourist destinations along the Mekong more accessible.
Vietnamese Prime Minister Visits Laos to Strengthen Infrastructure and Defence Cooperation
Vietnamese Prime Minister Le Minh Hung has arrived in Vientiane for talks on cross-border infrastructure, education and defence cooperation. The visit aims to deepen ties between Vietnam and Laos while supporting closer integration of transport and supply chains across the Mekong region.
Thailand, Laos and Myanmar Launch Joint Effort to Tackle Cross-Border Haze
Environmental authorities from Thailand, Laos and Myanmar have begun a coordinated initiative to address seasonal haze pollution affecting the Greater Mekong region. The cooperation aims to improve air quality, protect public health and reduce the impact of pollution on tourism.
Singapore Invites New Lao Prime Minister for Official Visit, Highlights Regional Power Cooperation
Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has congratulated Laos' newly elected leader, Saleumxay Kommasith, and invited him for an official visit. Wong also highlighted the electricity integration initiative connecting Laos, Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore as an example of expanding regional energy cooperation.
Thai-Lao Border Tourism Operators Prepare for Strong Peak-Season Travel Demand
Tourism and transport businesses in northern Thailand and Laos are preparing for increased visitor numbers during the upcoming peak season. Streamlined border procedures at the Fourth Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge and improving rail connections are expected to support cross-border tourism and travel through the Mekong region.
Laos Reports Inflation Near 8% as Food Shortages and Fuel Costs Pressure Households
Laos' new prime minister has told the National Assembly that average inflation remains close to 8%, driven partly by fluctuating fuel prices and pork shortages linked to African swine fever. The government is reviewing measures to stabilise prices and ease pressure on households and businesses.
Laos-China Railway Freight Volumes Jump 62% as Regional Trade Expands
Freight volumes on the Laos-China Railway increased by more than 62% in early 2026, according to official trade figures. The growth highlights rising demand for cross-border transport and expanding opportunities for Lao and Thai exporters using the regional rail network.
Thailand and Laos Advance $55 Million Bridge Project Near Luang Prabang
Thailand and Laos are finalising financing arrangements for an $55 million bridge spanning 800 metres between Chomphet district and Luang Prabang. The project aims to improve transport connections, support regional trade and make tourist destinations along the Mekong more accessible.
Vietnamese Prime Minister Visits Laos to Strengthen Infrastructure and Defence Cooperation
Vietnamese Prime Minister Le Minh Hung has arrived in Vientiane for talks on cross-border infrastructure, education and defence cooperation. The visit aims to deepen ties between Vietnam and Laos while supporting closer integration of transport and supply chains across the Mekong region.
Thailand, Laos and Myanmar Launch Joint Effort to Tackle Cross-Border Haze
Environmental authorities from Thailand, Laos and Myanmar have begun a coordinated initiative to address seasonal haze pollution affecting the Greater Mekong region. The cooperation aims to improve air quality, protect public health and reduce the impact of pollution on tourism.
Singapore Invites New Lao Prime Minister for Official Visit, Highlights Regional Power Cooperation
Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has congratulated Laos' newly elected leader, Saleumxay Kommasith, and invited him for an official visit. Wong also highlighted the electricity integration initiative connecting Laos, Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore as an example of expanding regional energy cooperation.
Thai-Lao Border Tourism Operators Prepare for Strong Peak-Season Travel Demand
Tourism and transport businesses in northern Thailand and Laos are preparing for increased visitor numbers during the upcoming peak season. Streamlined border procedures at the Fourth Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge and improving rail connections are expected to support cross-border tourism and travel through the Mekong region.