On 23 October 2026, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce (“MOIC”) issued Notice No. 4091 (the “Notice”), clarifying how MOIC’s Instruction No. 2406 on enterprise registration (“2406 Instruction”) applies to branches of foreign entities in the Lao PDR. Foreign commercial banks may establish new branches, while existing registered branches may continue operating under the transitional […]

The government of the Lao PDR offers domestic and foreign investors investment opportunities through 21 special economic zones (“SEZs”), which are designed to attract investment from the private sector, develop public infrastructure in its area, and boost economic growth and innovation. With incentives, straightforward regulatory processes incorporating one-stop service frameworks, and access to regional and […]

The amended Investment Promotion Law No. 62/NA dated 28 June 2024 (“Investment Promotion Law 2024”) was published in the Lao Official Gazette and came into effect on 16 December 2024, replacing the Investment Promotion Law 2016 and the Law on Amendment of Article 12 of the Investment Promotion Law 2019. The law was amended to […]

Investing in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) presents an opportunity for investors seeking to tap into one of Southeast Asia’s emerging markets. With its strategic location bordered by China, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia and Myanmar, abundant natural resources, and a government committed to infrastructure development and investment promotion, the Lao PDR is poised for […]