

4th Quarter, 2024
4th Quarter, 2024
Lao Responsible Business Awards 2025 “Community Engagement”
EuroCham Laos inaugurated the Vang Vieng chapter of the Hospitality & Tourism Advocacy Group
Exclusive Offer for EuroCham Laos’ Members from The NamKhan
European Chamber of Commerce and Industy in Laos 23 Singha Road, Phonexay Village, Xaysettha District, Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR
Dear Valued Members, Sponsors, and Partners,
As we move past 2024, I would like to take a moment to reflect on our collective efforts and achievements while also looking ahead to the opportunities that 2025 holds.
During the last year, the Chamber has continued its growth path, welcoming an increasing number of businesses into our network and representing a comprehensive range of industries and sectors. This diversity not only enriches our community but also reaffirms EuroCham’s leadership as the largest foreign Chamber of Commerce in the country.
2024 was a dynamic year filled with events and activities organized in partnership with members, stakeholders, and the broader business community. 22 events, attended by over 1,000 participants, served as valuable platforms for energized networking and dialogue. Breakfast Talks addressed pressing topics, such as the financial empowerment of Lao villages and the country’s evolving digital landscape in 2025. We extended our reach beyond the capital city for the first time, bringing our Business After Five series to Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng. This marked an exciting step forward in fostering the Chamber’s presence and engagement across the country.
One of the year’s highlights has been our collaboration with the European Union Delegation to Laos and GIZ in raising awareness of the upcoming Regulation on deforestationfree value chains. The initiative underscored the importance of the Laos-EU partnership in promoting sustainable economic growth while prioritizing environmental conservation, a key step toward a deforestation-free future!
As we plan the next chapters and look ahead to the new year, I want to express my gratitude to the Chamber’s team for their unwavering dedication.
Stefano Pighin Executive Director
A special thanks goes to our Deputy Executive Director, Enrico Bargnani, who recently moved on to the next stage of his journey after making significant contributions to the expansion of memberships and sponsorships.
The year 2025 will begin with the new edition of the Responsible Business Awards on February 10, focused on the theme of “Community Engagement”. The event reinforces the Chamber’s dedication to aligning with the European Green Deal by recognizing and supporting local businesses that contribute to the social and environmental wellbeing of their communities.
Following this, on February 14, I invite you to join the webinar “Brand Protection in Laos – Advantages and Risks for European SMEs,” which will provide valuable insights into challenges such as enforcing intellectual property rights and parallel imports. It will also offer guidance on how businesses can effectively use IPR protection to safeguard their assets and investments.
Finally, we will be resuming our training program in both Lao and English, designed to enhance the workforce’s skills across various areas to meet international standards and compete regionally. The first session, “Mastering Communication: The Key to Professional Success,” will be on February 18.
I encourage you to stay connected with us through our website and social media, and I look forward to hearing your ideas, feedback, and contributions. Together, we will continue to drive progress, foster innovation, and support a thriving and sustainable future for Laos.
With warmest regards.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Training - Mastering Communication: “The Key to Professional Success”
EUROCHAM WORKSHOPS
Building a Deforestation-Free Future
BREAKFAST TALK
Navigating 2025 Digital Landscape in Lao PDR
ADVOCACY
EuroCham Laos Hospitality Advocacy Group Meeting in Vang Vieng
EUROCHAM EVENTS
Joint Chamber Networking Night, Hosted by Lao Brewery
EUROCHAM SPECIAL EVENTS
MEMBERS & SPONSORS’ NEWS French Wine Tasting
MEMBERS PRIVILEGES
EuroCham Laos Celebrates the opening of Holiday Inn & Suites Vientiane
The Namkhan’s Exclusive Offer for EuroCham Laos’ Members
Become a part of the largest and most active foreign Chamber of Commerce in Laos, with 120+ members and dynamic events across Vientiane, Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang.
Whether you are entering the Lao market, seeking business opportunities, or advocating for solutions to enhance the business environment, EuroCham Laos welcomes you!
Why join EuroCham as a Corporate Member?
• Meet Your Target Audience with Breakfast Talks
• Boost Your Visibility with Free Advertising Services
• Generate Sales Opportunities with Networking Events
• Join a thriving community that boosts growth and success
Not a member of EuroCham yet? Unlock exclusive benefits and grow your business network by joining us today here: https://www.eccil.org/categories
For more information, contact: executivedirector@eccil.org
Let’s grow together in 2025!
: https://www.eccil.org/categories
: executivedirector@eccil.com
2025!
DATE
18 FEBRUARY, 2025
VENUE TIME 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
S.N. RESIDENCES
REGISTER NOW
ECCIL MEMBER: LAK 2,200,000
NON-MEMBER: LAK 2,800,000
*Coffee breaks and lunch included.
Deenu Abishek Wayte Managing Director, ERA Communications
“BRAND PROTECTION IN LAOS – ADVANTAGES
“BRAND PROTECTION IN LAOS – ADVANTAGES AND RISKS FOR EUROPEAN SMES” AND RISKS FOR EUROPEAN SMES”
On 14 February, 2025
09:00am - 10:15am
Speaker DINO SANTANIELLO DINO SANTANIELLO
Address: Chao Fa Ngum Road, Wat Chan Village, Chanthabuly District, Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR
Tel: +856 21 618 123
Email: info.vientiane@amari.com
Website: www.amari.com/vientiane
Discover the iconic Amari Vientiane, perfectly situated by the Mekong River in the heart of the city. With 248 thoughtfully designed rooms and suites, our hotel blends modern Lao and Thai styles seamlessly, offering guests elegantly designed spaces with warm hospitality.
Address: 6th Floor, Kolao Tower I, 23 Singha rd., Nongbone Village, Saysettha District, Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR
Tel: +856 21 455 077
Email: eylao@la.ey.com
Website: https://www.ey.com/en_la
EY Lao, established in Laos in 2006, is part of the EY Global. We offer a range of international services, including Assurance, Consulting, Strategy and Transactions, and Tax services.
At EY, our purpose is Building a better working world. The insights and quality services we provide help build trust and confidence in the capital markets and in economies the world over. We develop outstanding leaders who team to deliver on our promises to all our stakeholders. In so doing, we play a critical role in building a better working world for our people, for our clients and for our communities.
Address: Dongdok - Sikeuth Road, Hom 3, Ban Shamket, Sikhottabong District, Vientiane, Lao P.D.R.
Tel: +856 30 9940444
Email: info@diepvulaos.com
Website: www.diepvulaos.com
Diep Vu is a garment manufacturer specialized in the production of industrial workwear and laundry wear for leasing purposes. We start from fabric and deliver to your door a high end finished garment ready to use at once.
Address: 4th Floor Khop Chai Deu Restaurant, 54 Sethathirath Road, Xiengnguen Village, Vientiane, Lao PDR
Tel: +856 20 5552 1447
Email: Inthy@greendiscoverylaos.com
Website: www.inthira.com
Inthira Group was founded in 1998 in Vientiane, Laos, with the opening of Khop Chai Deu Restaurant. The restaurant quickly became Vientiane’s leading hot spot for locals and international travelers in Laos. From the outset, it was clear that the group had a knack for understanding the way the people wanted to eat, drink and experience entertainment in Laos.
Over the next 20 years, Inthira Group developed 4 more restaurants and hotels in Vang Vieng, Vientiane and Thakhek, each of them with its unique identity and atmosphere.
Address: Phonesavan Village, Naxaythong District, Vientiane Capital
Tel: +358 504419646
Email: chb@waldecgroup.com
Website: waldecgroup.com
Waldec is a leading supplier of machines, tools, spare-parts and consumables to the metal, rubber, plastic and polyurethane industries. Thousands of companies benefit from our local salespeople in all the Nordic and Baltic countries. Our own technical service teams certified by our suppliers provide installation, training, support and maintenance!
Address: Ban Thaphalansay, Sisattanak District Vientiane, Lao PDR
Tel: +856 20 2898 7977
Email: vijay7667@gmail.com
Website: www.vgentlao.com
VG Enterprise, a reliable leading supplier of fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) in the market. We specialize in offering a diverse range of high-quality products, including Food Products, Beverages, Personal Care and Hygiene items, Perfumes, and Household Products. As a trusted wholesaler, our commitment is to source products from renowned global suppliers, ensuring we deliver nothing but the best to our clients.
Address: Ban Phonsinuan, Vientiane, Laos PDR
Tel: +856 20 2898 7977
Email: vijay7667@gmail.com
Website: www.grandhotelvientiane.com
We welcome all business and leisure travelers to our ecstatic hotel. We are centrally located in Ban Phonsinuan, which is the heart of business and commerce in Vientiane.
We offer our guests a warm and inviting atmosphere with our modern contemporary styled design. Accommodation, Restaurant, Meetings and events, Best Amenities.
Address: Huakhua Road, Huakhua Village, Xaysedtha District, Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR
Tel: +856 20 2953 2895
Email: contact@jl-transport-logistics.com
Website: WWW.jl-transport-logistics.com
JLTL is a Logistics and freight forwarding company based in Vientiane, Lao PDR. JLTL is a partnership between Lao and French investors. Our company is equipped with a truck fleet routing to and from China, Thailand, Cambodia, Myanmar and Vietnam.
We specialize in providing comprehensive and reliable logistics solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients. Our commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction has established us as a trusted partner in the industry.
On November 22, EuroCham Laos inaugurated the Vang Vieng chapter of the Hospitality & Tourism Advocacy Group at The Elephant Crossing Hotel in Vang Vieng.
The meeting was timely for one of Laos’s premier tourist destinations and marked a significant milestone in EuroCham’s efforts to tackle challenges in the hospitality and tourism sectors.
Mr. Dilip Jesuthasan, EuroCham Executive Committee member, chaired the discussion, which featured active participation from industry professionals to identifying key issues, discussing strategic goals, and initiating plans to enhance the business environment in Vang Vieng and beyond.
Key areas identified during the discussion that require immediate attention include:
• Enhancing infrastructure management for improved mobility.
• Strengthening law enforcement to maintain cleanliness and safety in Vang Vieng.
• Bridging the gap between the tourism industry’s needs and vocational training.
We express our heartfelt gratitude to all attendees for their valuable input and to The Elephant Crossing Hotel for their warm hospitality. This meeting marks the beginning of what we believe will be impactful initiatives, driven by collaboration and mutual goals.
Stay tuned for updates as we continue to work together toward advancing the hospitality sector in Laos.
On December 12, #EuroChamLaos held a productive meeting with the Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MOIC) to discuss Notification No. 2666, which suspends importing and selling unregistered food products that lack registration numbers and Lao labelling.
We are grateful to Mr. Sonemala Nouanthasing, Director of Division and Mr. Vangchai Vang, Deputy Director General, Department of Foreign Trade, for clarifying the implementation details of Notification No. 2666, which will take full effect on January 1, 2025.
The meeting, attended by Stefano Pighin, EuroCham Executive Director and Siaosawat Dejvongsa, Unilever Laos Corporate Affairs Manager, provided valuable insights on how companies importing food products can comply with the registration and labelling requirements.
As Laos’ food safety regulations continue to evolve, we look forward to ongoing dialogue with the MOIC to represent the perspectives of international businesses in the country.
On October 30, EuroCham Vice President Lukasz Nitka and Executive Director Stefano Pighin attended the 23rd Trade and Private Sector Working Group Meeting held at the Souphattra Hotel in Vientiane.
The event brought together key national stakeholders, international business organizations and development partners, including H.E. Ms. Heather Variava, U.S. Ambassador to Lao PDR, and H.E. Mr. Mark Gallagher, EU Ambassador and Donor Facilitator for Lao PDR with the Enhanced Integrated Framework.
Strategic presentations and productive discussions centred on:
• Opportunities and challenges associated with a smooth LDC transition to mitigate unintended adverse impacts on the private sector.
• Laos’s ambition to advance e-commerce development within the ASEAN digital economy framework.
• The proposal of establishing a Mediation Center to mitigate investment risks and boost investor confidence in Laos.
• The European Union’s continued support to develop sustainable value chains and enhance their access to global markets with the EU Global Gateway flagship initiative.
In his speech, Mr. Nitka congratulated Laos on the successful ASEAN Summit, which served as an impactful platform to elevate private sector visibility. He also highlighted the essential role that competitive logistics costs play in advancing e-commerce growth within the country.
EuroCham Laos remains dedicated to collaborating with stakeholders and partners to support impactful initiatives and fostering dialogue for the sustainable growth of the Lao economy.
Images Source: T4D-Trade for Development
Room per night, including breakfast
$42/Night (minimum 15 rooms)
$45/Night (minimum 10 rooms)
$50/Night (less than 10 rooms)
Welcome cocktail upon arrival
Complimentary parking and Wi-Fi
Free access to the meeting room for half a day
VALID FOR BOOKINGS MADE BEFORE THE END OF FEBRUARY 2025, FOR ANY PERIOD OF STAY IN 2025
On November 4, 2024, EuroCham Laos supported the third EU-Laos high-level workshop on the European Union Regulation of Deforestation-free commodities (EUDR) at the Champasak Grand Hotel in Pakse. As the third in a series of four workshops aimed at raising awareness on EUDR among Lao stakeholders, this event brought together representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF), regional authorities, and other key sectors across southern Laos.
Given the significant role of agriculture in global deforestation, the EUDR, adopted in June 2023 as part of the European Green Deal, promotes sustainable sourcing and transparency in supply chains, covering commodities such as cattle, coffee, rubber, and wood. The workshop focused on:
• Increasing understanding of the EUDR’s goals and impacts with input from the EU Delegation to Laos.
• Facilitating stakeholder dialogue on EUDR challenges, opportunities, and support for enhancing EUDR readiness.
• Promoting collaboration among Lao stakeholders for deforestation-free commodity chains.
Over 40 participants attended, including officials from agriculture, industry, commerce, planning, investment, and environmental divisions from six southern provinces. The Lao government, a key partner in EUDR implementation, continues to play a vital role in strengthening private sector readiness.
The workshop featured presentations, group discussions, and Q&A sessions covering due diligence, traceability, and practical needs from EU and Lao government support.
The workshop series will conclude with a final session in Vientiane, consolidating insights from previous events in Vientiane Capital and Luang Prabang. Each session underscores the Laos-EU partnership, fostering economic growth while prioritizing environmental conservation, setting the stage for a sustainable, deforestation-free future.
The workshop series will conclude with a final session in Vientiane, consolidating insights from previous events in Vientiane Capital and Luang Prabang. Each session underscores the Laos-EU partnership, fostering economic growth while prioritizing environmental conservation, setting the stage for a sustainable, deforestation-free future.
Hosted by Lao Brewery
We are thrilled to share the success of the Joint Chamber Networking Night, hosted by Lao Brewery, on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, at the exclusive Jingjai Bar. The event welcomed over 150 attendees from both EuroCham and AustCham members, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with meaningful networking, professional connections, and, most importantly, enjoyment.
The evening unfolded at Jingjai Bar, which provides the exclusive opportunity to host private parties exclusively for corporate partners, and special occasional packages tailored specifically for corporate clients. With its vibrant atmosphere, Jingjai Bar was the perfect setting for this gathering, allowing attendees to relax and engage in meaningful conversations.
One of the highlights of the night was the Beerlao tasting session. Participants had the opportunity to sample a curated selection of Lao Brewery’s finest beverages, showcasing the rich flavors and craftsmanship behind each brew. This interactive experience was not just about tasting; it was a celebration of Lao culture and community spirit, bringing everyone together over shared experiences and laughter.
As the evening progressed, the excitement continued to build with the much-anticipated lucky draw. Attendees eagerly awaited their chance to win fantastic prizes, adding an element of thrill to the night. The draw underscored the camaraderie among members, reinforcing the importance of community within our professional networks.
We extend our sincere gratitude to Lao Brewery for their generous sponsorship, which played a pivotal role in making this event a memorable occasion. Their unwavering support, alongside their commitment to quality and community, was truly appreciated by all in attendance.
Thank you to everyone who joined us for this wonderful evening. We look forward to hosting more events that bring our business community together, fostering connections that go beyond the professional realm and celebrating the joy of collaboration.
On the evening of November 6, 2024, EuroCham Laos and AustCham Lao PDR, together with our valued Gold Sponsor IndusTek Co., Ltd., welcomed members and guests from across the business community to the Joint Chamber Networking Night at the OSHE Training Center. This engaging event brought together a diverse group of professionals, promoting new connections and collaborations.
IndusTek, a leader in supplying personal protective equipment to industries such as mining and construction, opened the doors of their new training facility to highlight their commitment to improving safety standards in Laos. Attendees had the opportunity to explore IndusTek’s diverse range of safety products and comprehensive safety training programs.
Participants engaged in safety demonstrations, gaining hands-on experience with the equipment and learning practical measures to improve workplace safety. Presentations by OSHE specialists provided valuable insights into maintaining a safe and healthy work environment.
The networking session allowed for meaningful connections among both members and nonmembers, strengthening relationships within the business community. Attendees also had the chance to discover how IndusTek’s services can help create safer work environments across various sectors.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to IndusTek for their generous sponsorship and for providing a platform to learn about their important safety initiatives. A sincere thank you also goes to all the attendees for their participation and enthusiasm.
The success of this event served as a powerful reminder of the importance of workplace safety and the strength of the business community in Laos. We look forward to welcoming you to our future events!
On Thursday, December 5, 2024, EuroCham Laos concluded the year with a memorable Networking Night, proudly sponsored by Mascot International Laos. This vibrant event brought together professionals from across Laos’ business community to celebrate the spirit of collaboration and the festive season.
The beautiful Garden at Crowne Plaza Vientiane provided an elegant backdrop for the evening. Guests enjoyed a delightful array of refreshments, complemented by the warm and festive ambiance that marked the holiday season.
Mascot International Laos, renowned for its high-quality workwear and safety footwear, demonstrated its commitment to supporting community engagement by sponsoring this event. Their support highlighted the importance of fostering strong relationships within the business community.
During the event, EuroCham Laos introduced the South-East Asia IP SME Helpdesk, a valuable initiative offering free, jargon-free, first-line assistance to help SMEs from the European Union and Single Market Programme countries protect and enforce their Intellectual Property (IP) rights in South-East Asia.
This Networking Night was not just an opportunity to connect—it was a celebration of the shared achievements and milestones of 2024. Attendees exchanged insights, discussed opportunities, and reflected on the collective growth of the EuroCham community.
EuroCham Laos would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Mascot International Laos for their generous support and to all participants who made the evening a success. As we look forward to 2025, we remain committed to organizing events that bring our members together, strengthening ties and promoting professional collaboration.
On November 21, EuroCham Laos organized a thought-provoking Breakfast Talk: Navigating 2025 Digital Landscape in Lao PDR, in collaboration with ERA Laos. The session, held at S.N. Residences, featured Su Shwe Yee Htun, Regional Digital Experience Director at ERA Communications, who brought a wealth of expertise to the discussion.
During the talk, Su Shwe Yee Htun shared her in-depth knowledge of the digital evolution in Laos, highlighting emerging trends and providing practical advice on how businesses can stay ahead in this rapidly changing environment.
Key topics included:
• The dominance of Meta platforms.
• The increasing influence of TikTok.
• The role of Programmatic advertising in engaging today’s audiences.
Participants gained fresh perspectives on tailoring their digital strategies to align with audience behaviours and platform-specific opportunities.
We are grateful to Su Shwe Yee Htun for her valuable insights and to everyone who joined us for this engaging event. Let’s keep the momentum going as we navigate the future of the digital world in Laos together!
On Wednesday, December 11th, EuroCham Laos celebrated the festive spirit of the season with a French Wine Tasting at AEnoteca.
In the heart of the holiday season, guests enjoyed an exquisite selection of French wines, perfectly paired with delicious bites. It was the perfect setting to create festive memories while savoring fine wines and enjoying the company of friends.
The event offered a chance to indulge in the art of wine appreciation, with expert guidance from AEnoteca leading the way.
Thank you to everyone who joined us for this wonderful event! Stay tuned for more exciting gatherings as EuroCham Laos continues to bring you the best of European culture and flavors.
Your New Destination for Quality Hospitality!
At the exclusive Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony for Holiday Inn & Suites Vientiane, key community figures gathered to celebrate the launch of this vibrant new hotel, experiencing its exceptional atmosphere and comfort for the first time.
On Friday, October 18, 2024, our Vice President, Mr Lukasz Nitka, attended the much-awaited opening, marking a notable addition to the city’s growing hospitality sector by offering worldclass services to business and leisure travellers.
We extend our best wishes to the Team at Holiday Inn & Suites Vientiane and look forward to their positive impact in Laos!
BETWEEN September and December 2024, ERA Communication partnered with the World Health Organization (WHO), successfully implemented a Social Media training project aimed at empowering of Laos Government Organizations. This Initiative sought to equip public health campaigns of provincial health departments with the tools and skills needed to effectively leverage social media. Key topics included promoting health campaigns and countering misinformation in the digital age.
ERA communications’ Customized training program began with the audits of health departments’ current social media presence. The program especially focused on the hands-on programs included customized training sessions, social media engagements and creative content development using Meta Platforms. This program also featured practical workshops such as creating impactful vaccination awareness campaigns, so the participants gained experience in advertising, content planning, audience targeting, ad optimization and analyzing campaign performance using Meta Business Suite
Beyond the training, the participants developed creative assets and report templates tailored to Local contexts ensuring sustainability. The participants were equipped not only with technical skills but also with a framework for strategic, datadriven decision-making in their communication efforts.
By the end of the program, this initiative had delivered measurable improvements in social media performance and highlighted ERA communications’ dedication to strengthening digital capacity across Laos, holding a position as a trusted partner for INGOs and government Organizations and private sector entities.
Begin the new year with a peaceful retreat at The Namkhan! To celebrate 2025, our member is offering an exclusive “Welcoming in 2025” promotion for EuroCham Laos’ members.
3rd January – 9th February 2025 (excluding 26th January – 2nd February for Lunar New Year)
• Explorer Tent - $ 75nett per night Bed & Breakfast for two
• Namkhan Tent - $ 100nett per night Bed & Breakfast for two
• River Side Villa - $ 125nett per night Bed & Breakfast for two
• 1 x extra bed will be available for each room category if required at $ 25nett per night for an additional adult or 2 children to share – also inclusive of daily breakfast for 1 adult of 2 children (up to 12 years of age)
• For stays of 2 nights or more we will offer a complimentary ARRIVAL transfer from LPQ or Luang Prabang Railway Station
• For stays of 3 nights or more we will a complimentary ARRIVAL transfer from LPQ or Luang Prabang Railway Station plus a complimentary Sunset Namkhan River Cruise x 4 guests
• For stays of 6 nights or more we will offer the ARRIVAL transfer from LPQ or Luang Prabang Railway Station plus a complimentary joining of our I-Mekong Sunset Cruise on the Mekong River
Please book via book@thenamkhan.com attention to Ms. Pann, Reservations Manager noting “ECCIL Welcoming in 2025 offer” in the subject line.
• PLEASE NOTE THE ABOVE OFFERS ARE AVAILABLE SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY AT TIME OF REQUEST, LIMITED TO 3 ROOMS PER BOOKING
• PROOF OF 2025 ECCIL MEMBERSHIP WILL BE REQUIRED AT CHECK IN – BOOKINGS AVAILABLE FOR COMPANY (INCLUDING 2025 KICK OFF MEETINGS) OR PERSONAL USE
Areyouplanningtotrainlocalexpertsorimproveenvironmentaland socialstandardsinyoursupplychain?With develoPPP ,theGerman FederalMinistryforEconomicCooperationandDevelopment(BMZ) promotesprivate-sectoractivitieswhere entrepreneurial opportunitiesanddevelopmentpolicypotentialmeet.Companies thatwanttoinvestsustainablyinapartnercountryorexpandtheir localoperationscanreceive financialandtechnicalsupportofupto 2millioneuro forasuitableproject.
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Farmersreceivecertificationandhigherincome
CO2-emissionsarereduced
Supplyofhigh-qualityriceissecured