A delegation from Taiwan's Tourism Administration visited Laos to explore the potential for launching direct flights between the two countries, according to reports on Friday, July 5. The visit, managed by the Tourism Administration’s office in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, aimed to foster better travel links and promote tourism.

The Taiwanese delegation, including officials and businesspeople, traveled to Phnom Penh, Cambodia, and Vientiane, Laos, from June 30 to July 5. They sought to engage with local travel operators and discuss the feasibility of direct flights. Currently, Taiwan remains relatively unknown to Laotian travel operators due to the absence of direct flights and a Taiwanese representative office in Laos.

The delegation met with Lao Airlines, hoping to facilitate the launch of direct flights. However, Lao Airlines indicated that a shortage of aircraft would delay the introduction of direct flights until at least 2025. The delegation emphasized the benefits of direct flights, such as reduced travel costs and time, which would make Taiwan a more attractive destination for Laotian tourists.

During their visit, Taiwanese officials provided information about Taiwan’s visa procedures, tourist attractions, and travel conveniences. Nearly 1,000 Laotians visited Taiwan annually before the COVID-19 pandemic, with the figure recovering to about 80% in 2023. At a promotional event, Lao influencer Lawrence Koo shared his positive experiences from a 2018 visit to Taiwan, highlighting the friendliness of the Taiwanese people and the convenience of travel within the country.