The government of Laos is taking major steps to bolster domestic production and reduce reliance on imports, aiming to strengthen the processing industry and promote Laos-made products. Key measures include supporting businesses across multiple sectors, prioritizing industries that can substitute imports, and addressing challenges to create a conducive environment for local production. The Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MoIC) is leading efforts to improve regulations, streamline procedures, and provide targeted assistance to businesses.

During the 8th Ordinary Session of the National Assembly’s 9th legislature, Minister of Industry and Commerce Malaythong Kommasith reiterated the government’s commitment to developing comprehensive production databases. These databases will provide valuable insights for research, planning, and identifying competitive domestic products based on import data and feasibility studies. The government is also working to enhance the business environment by addressing obstacles such as high production and transportation costs and revising policies to attract investments.

The MoIC has launched a pilot project called “Promote the Production and Use of Domestic Products,” in collaboration with producer and processor associations. This initiative will explore experimental practices, such as offering products at budget prices within the ministry, with the goal of expanding the program if successful.

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