Celebrating our Achievements and Strategy Plan with our Members
Grand Event Organised with Laos Foreign Chambers Sponsored by RMA Lao
IndusTek
Lao Friends Hospital for Children
BIPO SERVICE
Forte-Toko Lao Assurance
Dear valued Members, Sponsors and Partners,
I am honoured to be addressing you all here for the first time as the President of the Executive Committee of EuroCham Laos. I am doubly honoured because EuroCham - thanks to your membership - is the largest and most diverse foreign business chamber in Laos. I am also honoured to be representing an engaged Executive Committee and a great Executive Team who are all working hard to implement our strategy and reach our goals.
Having lived in Laos for 20 years and been a small business owner and manager for more than 15 years, I have first hand experience of the wonderful opportunities, but also the challenges, that meet foreign investors here. As one of the co-founders and directors of Civitas Co., Ltd, a small consultancy company that supports local development projects, some implemented by aid organizations and some by private companies, I firmly believe that a thriving responsible private sector is essential to the sustainable development of this beautiful country. These experiences are what drives my passion and engagement in EuroCham Laos.
In the last 18 months, EuroCham has increased its member base from 92 to 122. That is a growth of 25%. Reaching this target, and continuing this growth is important: not only to finance the chamber, which is now fully self-supporting, but especially because EuroCham is a member’s association. EuroCham exists because of its members, and has the single purpose of representing and serving its members. We, the Executive Committee, believe that by representing the foreign business community through large numbers and demonstrated diversity in nationality, language and field, we can provide our members with a real platform for networking and advocacy.
Q2 2024 was again a busy quarter for EuroCham, moving offices, saying goodbye to our Executive Director and preparing the welcoming of her replacement in August, while observing and responding to the developments in the Lao and regional business environments.
Mette Boatman
As you are all aware, after many years of economic growth the Lao state is facing extreme financial problems. These problems obviously effect the private sector and most of us doing business here. In the first 6 months of 2024, EuroCham took an active part in discussions about the Governments initiatives to mitigate these problems, in various forums. To ensure we represent our members opinion and concerns in such discussions, we initiated a member survey on the latest FX management guidelines. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all our members who participated in this 15-minute online survey, which was implemented in partnership with other foreign business chambers, to get a broad base to support our argumentation. The results of the survey were presented by one of the Executive Committee’s Vice-Presidents, Mr Lukasz Nitka, at the 22nd Trade and Private Sector Working Group Meeting in June 2024. Here we were given an opportunity to express our concerns related to the new regulations directly to decision makers. I highlight this event here as it provides a good example of how EuroCham connects its members and their opinions and concerns with the forums where discussions are had.
As you can see from the content of this newsletter, this was only one of many activities implemented by the chamber in Q2. On that note, I encourage you to use your membership. Take advantage of the many useful trainings to build capacity of your staff. Join our Breakfast Talks where innovation and new ideas are shared and discussed. Grow your local and regional networks in our Business After 5 Events. And let us hear your voice in one of our active Advocacy Groups and online member surveys, or contact us directly, so that we always know how we best do our job of representing you.
With warm regards, Mette
Boatman
EUROCHAM EVENTS
EUROCHAM GENERAL ASSEMBLY & LAO – EUROPE BUSINESS NETWORKING
03 07 12 19 06 09 15 23
EUROCHAM EVENTS
SPANISH WINE TASTING
EUROCHAM BREAKFAST TALKS
BREAKFAST TALK - How can we financially empower Lao Villages?
PARTNER’S EVENTS
EUROPE DAY - EuroCham Laos joined the European Union in Laos to celebrate Europe Day
MEMBERS’ STORIES
Interview of Lao Friends Hospital for Children
EUROCHAM EVENTS
INTERCHAM NETWORKING NIGHT Sonsored by RMA Lao
EUROCHAM TRAININGS
MANAGEMENT TRAININGSLeadership and Effective Team Building
MEMBERS’ STORIES
Interview of Forte-Toko Lao Assurance Co., Ltd
On May 23rd 2024, Mrs Thiane Khamvongsa, Executive Director of the European Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Lao PDR, and H.E Ina Marčiulionytė, Embassador of European Union in Lao PDR, invited the representatives of a hundred companies to celebrate friendship tie and close collaboration between the Lao and European business communities.
The Annual General Meeting of the European Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Lao PDR (or EuroCham Laos) took place in the evening, reuniting its members to approve the management account and discuss the future of the Chamber. Mrs Thiane Khamvongsa, who presented the activity reports and results for 2023 and outlined the Chamber’s strategy, budget and action plan for 2024-2025, also announced that this was her third and last year as Executive Director of EuroCham Laos.
Mrs Thiane Khamvongsa, explained that “The Chamber has gone through an important restructuring, in the past 3 years, in its effort to become financially self-sustainable and member centric. Today, it is thriving, with more than 120 members - the highest number we’ve ever had in the history of the Chamber - the reviving of sectorial advocacy working groups, organizing more than 40 events per year, making us indeed the largest and most influential foreign chamber in the country”. She further added “We can be proud of the journey accomplished together to strengthen the potential of the private sector in the local economy. I know that I leave the Chamber in good and capable hands, and that EuroCham Laos, will continue for many years to support our members, our partners, and our policy makers, to promote responsible business practices for a sustainable, dynamic and diversified economic development”.
The executive board announced the resignation of Mr Peter Fogde, and the nomination of Mrs Mette Boatman as President of EuroCham Laos. Steeping up, Mrs Mette Boatman thanked the entire Executive Team and Committee, and the out-going President and Executive Director in particular, for their hard work getting the Chamber on the right course and to where it is today. She encouraged all members to participate actively in Chamber activities and contribute to the dialogue and forming of the Chamber in the coming years. “The Chamber exist only because of it’s members and for it’s members. Together we are strong”.
As it is tradition, the General Meeting was followed by a networking event to celebrate the achievements and to further the Lao and European business communities’ ties. The event, co-hosted by EuroCham Laos and the EU Delegation to Lao PDR, was also the occasion to launch the ‘European Union Investment Mapping in Lao PDR’, which provides an overview of EU investments in the country. The mapping exercise, which was done by an online survey, with detailed data volunteered by the firms, showed that the surveyed European companies operate in 16 sectors, from finance to manufacturing and tourism and have an annual turnover over €1 billion, pay around €235 million in corporate tax yearly, and support about 9,000 jobs locally.
In her opening remarks, H.E Ina Marčiulionytė, Embassador of European Union in Lao PDR, shared with the audience that “this initiative forms part of the EU Global Gateway agenda of connecting further to our partner countries through trusted and sustainable quality investment and trade that works for the planet and for the people. I have actually observed and exchanged with many small and large European companies who follow this approach, genuinely caring about their employees and about protecting the environment and natural resources in Lao PDR. European companies are not here just to do business; they are truly committed to make a positive impact on the socio-economic development of the country.
EuroCham also introduced to the audience a free service offered through the collaboration of the EU and EuroCham: the South-East Asia IP SME Helpdesk to European SMEs. The helpdesk free services offer training, one-to-one consultations, publications, enquiries helplines and awareness raising event on Intellectual Property matters in SEA affecting European SMEs.
The European Union and EuroCham Laos have been close partners for more than 12 years, since the inception of the Chamber. Both have been working hand in hand, promoting Lao PDR as an investment destination for the European business community, and remaining steadfast in advocating for trade facilitation, market access, sustainable development and addressing the most critical interests and concerns of European businesses operating in Lao PDR,
On the evenings of May 15th and 16th, EuroCham Laos had the pleasure of hosting our valued members for an enchanting Spanish Wine Tasting event at Laolive. This delightful experience allowed participants to savor the unique flavors of five distinct Spanish wines, each from a different region of Spain, perfectly paired with an array of delicious bites.
Guided by the expertise of Frederic, we enjoyed an evening filled with joy, laughter, and a shared love for Spanish culture. The event offered a wonderful opportunity for our members to deepen their understanding of Spanish wines, all while enjoying the friendly and vibrant atmosphere that EuroCham Laos events are known for.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who attended and made this evening so special. Your presence and enthusiasm inspire us to continue creating enriching experiences that celebrate the diverse cultures within our community. Thank you for being part of the EuroCham Laos family.
On June 28, EuroCham Laos hosted the Breakfast Talk: How can we financially empower Lao Villages? featuring Tim Scheffmann, CEO of LTS Ventures.
A big thanks to everyone who joined us for this insightful session! Together, we explored innovative strategies to uplift rural communities across Laos. Mr. Scheffmann, with his extensive background in banking, finance, and FinTech across Southeast Asia, provided invaluable perspectives on achieving sustainable financial empowerment. The event covered historical insights, examining successful initiatives and learning from past challenges in rural financial empowerment. We also received an up-to-date overview of digital transformation and financial inclusion within Laos.
We’re excited about the potential for change in Laos and grateful to Mr. Scheffmann for sharing his expertise. Let’s continue these conversations and turn ideas into action for a more inclusive future! If you missed the event, stay tuned for updates on how you can get involved.
Vientiane is abuzz with excitement as we welcome visitors and delegates for the ASEAN Meeting. Holiday Inn & Suites, a brand within the IHG Hotels & Resorts family, is thrilled to announce its anticipated arrival in Vientiane in Quarter 4 of 2024. This marks the brand's debut in the city, positioning it right next to its sister property, Crowne Plaza Vientiane – the first IHG hotel to grace Laos in 2017.
Offering unparalleled comfort for every guest, Holiday Inn & Suites boasts 273 rooms, including 64 spacious suites. Each room features a selection of pillows, a flat-screen TV, high-speed Wi-Fi, and for extended-stay guests, some rooms offer convenient kitchenettes and residential-style amenities. Guests can unwind at the hotel's premium recreational facilities, featuring a state-of-the-art gym and an expansive infinity pool with refreshing light bites and cocktails.
Additionally, Rosella, the hotel's all-day dining restaurant, promises a delightful culinary experience with a variety of local and international dishes to tantalize every taste bud. The cozy Lobby lounge, known as The Hub, offers a tempting selection of sweet and savory treats for those seeking a casual atmosphere.
Holiday Inn & Suites reinforces its warm and welcoming spirit with its globally recognized "Kids Stay and Eat Free" program, making it the perfect choice for families.
Following the exceptional standards set by its sister property, Crowne Plaza Vientiane, the dedicated hotel management team at Holiday Inn & Suites is committed to delivering exceptional service and creating unforgettable guest experiences. Their extensive experience in the IHG family ensures a seamless stay that upholds the brand's renowned reputation. This dedication will be on full display when the hotel opens its doors in 2024, a remarkable year for Laos. As the nation takes center stage, hosting the prestigious ASEAN Meeting and welcoming international guests for the Lao Tourism Year, it promises to be a time of cultural exchange and unforgettable experiences.
Sponsored by: RMA Lao
On May 16, 2024, EuroCham Laos proudly hosted the InterCham Networking Night, a landmark event that brought together over 300 attendees at the prestigious Landmark Hotel. This evening wasn’t just about networking; it was a celebration of collaboration and connection among key players in Laos’ business landscape.
We extend our deepest gratitude to our generous Platinum Sponsor, RMA Lao, whose support was instrumental in making this event a resounding success. During the event, attendees had the opportunity to learn about RMA Lao’s vision, footprint, and goals as a prominent and diversified group, contributing significantly to Laos’ economic growth.
The InterCham Networking Night marked a significant milestone as the first collaboration among EuroCham Laos, Austcham Lao PDR, British Business Group Lao PDR, American-Lao Business Association, Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Laos, and the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Laos. This union of chambers highlighted the strength of unity in diversity, as professionals and entrepreneurs from various backgrounds converged to exchange ideas and explore potential business ventures.
On May 9, EuroCham Laos joined the European Union in Laos, along with EU Delegations worldwide , to celebrate Europe Day on May 9, recalling the 1950 Schuman Declaration which laid the foundation for today’s European Union.
The EU Delegation in Lao PDR organised a cultural event at the Lao National Culture Hall, in the presence of Her Excellency Mme Bounkham VORACHIT, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Ministers and Vice-Ministers, with the aim of deepening bilateral ties and exploring new avenues for cooperation between the EU and Lao PDR.
On Europe Day, we reflect on the shared values of unity, cooperation, and mutual respect that link us. Through continued collaboration and dialogue, we look forward to shaping a future of peace, prosperity, and solidarity for generations to come, in collaboration with our Lao PDR friends.
EuroCham Laos’ inaugural “Business After Five Networking Event” in Vang Vieng was an absolute success! Sponsored by Swisscontact Lao PDR and Econoxlaos, this event was a testament to collaboration and community spirit.
Held at the picturesque Riverside Boutique Resort on April 9, it was an evening dedicated to fostering connections and exploring avenues for mutual growth.
With a focus on “Promoting a Single-use Plastic Waste-Free Vang Vieng,” in collaboration with Econox and the Waste to Value project, the event aimed to tackle a pressing issue facing our planet today. Representatives from the tourism and hospitality sector joined forces to discuss and devise strategies for a plastic-free future.
Key highlights included insights into the Plastic-Free Laos initiative, spearheaded by Econox Laos, aimed at reducing single-use plastic waste in the Lao PDR.
A big thank you to all attendees for your participation and engagement! Together, we’re paving the way towards a more sustainable future for Vang Vieng and beyond.
The first day focused on essential management and communication skills, covering topics such as defining marketing objectives, understanding customer personas, identifying key points of contact, types of communication channels, creating content, campaign launch and monitoring, and analysis and calculating ROI.
The second day concentrated on conflict resolution and team-building strategies, including an introduction to digital and social media marketing, creating engaging marketing content, selecting the right channels and scheduling, analysis and reporting, staying up to date with modern trends, and influencer relationship and management.
EuroCham Laos is thrilled to announce the success of Module 3 in our Management Training Series, “Leadership and Effective Team Building,” held on May 21-22 at the EuroCham Laos Office.
This two-day event provided professionals with an invaluable opportunity to enhance their leadership and team-building skills.
Participants not only gained invaluable skills but also received tangible benefits from our training program. These benefits include enhanced professional capabilities, expanded networks within the industry, and practical knowledge applicable to their respective roles and organizations.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our trainer, Deenu Abishek Wayte, whose expertise and engaging approach were instrumental in making this training a resounding success. Deenu’s dedication and insights were invaluable to all participants.
We also express our sincere thanks to all participants for their enthusiasm and active involvement, which greatly contributed to the success of this event.
All courses, workshops, and certified programs from ECCIL EuroCham Laos can be delivered as in-house for groups of people in your organization, or at the comforts of your venue of choice. (+856
At IndusTek’s Training Center, we pride ourselves on being the pioneer in Occupational Safety, Health, and Environment (OSHE) training. Established to meet the growing need for comprehensive safety education, our mission is to equip individuals and organizations with the knowledge and skills to create safer, healthier workplaces.
What sets Occupational Safety, Health, and Environment (OSHE) training Center apart is our holistic approach to training. Our curriculum is developed by industry experts and designed to meet international standards. We offer a range of courses, from basic safety awareness to advanced certifications in occupational health and environmental management.
Our state-of-the-art facilities include simulation labs, interactive learning environments, and real-world scenario
training to ensure our clients are prepared for any situation. We are proud of our achievements. Since our inception, we have trained over 1000 professionals, helping numerous organizations reduce workplace incidents and comply with regulatory requirements.
Our clients span various industries, including construction, manufacturing, healthcare, and more, reflecting our versatile and adaptable training programs. Our team of experienced trainers is our greatest asset. Each instructor brings a wealth of practical experience and a passion for safety, ensuring that our participants receive top-notch education and support.
We foster a collaborative and inclusive workforce environment, promoting continuous learning and innovation. We invite businesses seeking to enhance their safety protocols and individuals aiming to advance their careers to partner with us. By choosing Occupational Safety, Health, and Environment (OSHE) training Center, you are investing in excellence, reliability, and a commitment to creating a safer world.
Vientiane's Energy Heats Up with Euphoria!
The excitement in Vientiane is about to hit a whole new level! Crowne Plaza Vientiane is thrilled to introduce Euphoria, a brand-new music event that will bring an unforgettable musical experience to the city.
2nd and 4th Thursday EVERY MONTHS
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Inspired by the abundance of world-class music events, Crowne Plaza Vientiane is pioneering a new chapter in Laotian entertainment. Get ready for a special music concert featuring globally-renowned artists, performing live right here in Vientiane.
Euphoria isn't just about the music, it's a multi-sensory experience. We're elevating the concert experience to new heights, catering to the souls of music lovers everywhere. Prepare to be uplifted and inspired by the incredible performances.
The excitement doesn't stop there. Euphoria o ers exclusive dining packages, allowing you to embark on a unique culinary adventure. Indulge in a fusion of quality and innovation at two of Vientiane's most celebrated restaurants, consistently ranked No. 1 and No. 2 on Trip Advisor - 3 Merchants and Mosaic. Euphoria promises to create lasting memories for music lovers and food connoisseurs alike.
The inaugural Euphoria event takes place on July 21st, 2024, featuring the electrifying Thai pop-rock band, Getsunova. Tickets are available now, with special discounts for early birds and groups.
Indulge in an Exquisite Culinary Journey
• 5 Distinguished Wines: A handpicked selection of reds, white, and rosé from renowned vineyards, each sip is a testament to craftsmanship and terroir.
• 8 Artisan Cheeses: A symphony of flavors and textures, from creamy goat cheese to aged cheddar, each bite a masterpiece of dairy artistry.
• 8 Delectable Cold Cuts & More: A curated assortment of charcuterie, including Prosciutto, Salami, olives, and other savory delights, perfectly complementing the wine and cheese.
Elevate your experience with this luxurious assortment, designed to satisfy the most discerning palates.
Lao Friends Hospital for Children is built on three pillars—treatment, education, and prevention. Treatment: LFHC is home to 13 departments, including a 24-bed inpatient department, a state-of-the-art neonatal unit, and the only free intensive care unit in Laos. It is also home to the only development clinic, which provides support to the most vulnerable children, and an outreach department that travels thousands of kilometers to support children in need. Education: LFHC trains healthcare professionals and students from across Laos.
The recently launched district training program aims to support healthcare capacity across Northern Laos. The hospital, which was recognized as the best provider of malnutrition care in Laos, also provided national malnutrition training to every provincial hospital in the country.
Prevention: In 2022, LFHC launched its groundbreaking prevention program in partnership with UNICEF. Focusing on the first 1000 days (from conception to 2 years), this program gets into the local communities and combats malnutrition on the ground. Laos still has the highest child malnutrition rates in Southeast Asia. “Treating every child as if they were your own” is the mantra that runs through every aspect of LFHC. In late 2024, the hospital will begin its oncology training program to begin providing cancer treatment at LFHC in three years. Hundreds of children with blood cancer have been diagnosed at LFHC, with 98% of them unable to afford the treatment in Vientiane. With the new oncology program, Lao Friends Hospital for Children will provide free blood cancer treatment to any child in Laos. None of these achievements would have been possible without the generous support of our donors. LFHC is completely privately funded and relies on the kind support of organizations and private donors to keep saving young lives.
BIPO is committed to providing professional human resource system solutions for global companies. Our enterprise-ready HR Management System (HRMS) platform automates HR processes, simplifies workflows, and delivers actionable insights to build the best Employee Experience. What makes us unique? Our solution is tailored to the specific needs of your organisation.
An all-in-one platform with opt-in and opt-out flexibility along with a mobile app
is flexible and full in compliance. With our local support to ensure speedy follow-up service for all our clients within the Asia Pacific Region.
BIPO HR Service and our signature HRMS have won numerous awards in the industry, BIPO is a proven and widely recognized service provider for your HR needs. We have been recognised as a major contender and star performer for a multiple payroll solution – APAC in 2023 by Everest Group. Gartner has also recently released the BIPO is one of the Asia-based payroll vendors featured and the majority of the vendors featured are US-based, some European-based. Besides, our HRMS and HR solutions have been awarded as the best HR Tech and Payroll Software every year since 2021. At BIPO, we believe the key to any engagement’s success is by bringing together the right mix of professionals with relevant experience. We offer a strong, integrated, industryexperienced team with vast experience and supported by strong communication, technical and industry resources. Most importantly, our professionals will guide you to anticipate and avoid potential pitfalls that may confront your business.
We are currently working on multiple regional projects including one of the biggest banks in Thailand and other well-known global companies such as DHL, LVMS, Airbus, Bollore and many others. If you are keen to explore how our HRMS will help you MAKE LIFE EASIER, please feel free to contact me at 020 5556 4881 or lila.kadoudom@biposervice.com
We are founded on being inclusive, to provide a safety net for people and businesses across all levels of society to be financially protected in emerging Southeast Asia. Since Forte was founded in 1999, We have built our success by being customer-focused, forward-thinking, and innovative.
Forte is seen as Cambodia’s insurer of choice and pioneer in the insurance industry in emerging Southeast Asia, with our vision to protect and empower everyone in the region for a better future, one person, one business at a time. In 2007, Forte was founded in Laos as Toko Insurance, and in 2018, Forte set its sights beyond Cambodia by expanding its general insurance business into Laos by acquiring Tokojaya Insurance on March 9.
Currently working under the name Forte Laos, the company is a division of Forte, which has been the top general insurer in Cambodia for more than 20 years. Moreover, our mission is to provide innovative, customer-focused products and services, build capacity in our people, and contribute to the progress of the insurance industry in the markets we operate in. Nevertheless, we are staying true to our vision, mission, and values; we strive to enable people to live with confidence.
We are staying true to our vision, mission, and values. We strive to enable people to live with confidence.
years of confidence.
Founded in 1999, Forte is leading the growth of the insurance industry in emerging Southeast Asia with its vision to protect and empower everyone in the region for a better future – one person, one business at a time.
In 2007, Forte was founded in Laos as Toko Insurance, and in 2018, Forte set its sights beyond Cambodia by expanding its general insurance business into Laos by acquiring Tokojaya Insurance on March 9. Currently working under the name Forte Laos, the company is a division of Forte, which has been the top general insurer in Cambodia for more than 20 years.
Our mission is to provide innovative, customer-focused products and services, build capacity in our people, and contribute to the progress of the insurance industry in the markets we operate in.
• Market Development Executive
• Facilities Manager
• Production Planner
• Maintenance Planner
• CSR Development Manager
• Head of Procurement and Operational Support
• Software Developer - Mobile App Developer
• Motor Claims Expert
• Property Management Specialist
• Software Developer
• School Administrative Officer
• Student Recruitment Officer
• Graphic Designer
• Administrative Chinese Academic
• Sales Merchandisers
• HR Executive- Recruitment
• Quality Assurance Inspector
• Manager, Client Management, Consumer Goods Base in Vientiane Capital
• Paralegal
• Senior Associate
• Marketing (Campaign) Associate
• Administrative Associate
• Human Resource Associate
Address: Wattaiyai Thong Village, Sikhottabong District, Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR
Tel: +856 20 5822 2123
Email: creativeclouodconsulting.la@gmail.com
Facebook Page: Creative Cloud Consulting
Creative Cloud Consulting (CCC) is a full-service professional business development consulting firm based in Laos. We specialize in providing comprehensive solutions in business development, marketing, branding, and event management. With a team of ambitious founders who possess extensive experience in launching new brands, products, and services, CCC is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs, inventors, and companies in Laos achieve their goals and drive growth.
Our vision at Creative Cloud Consulting (CCC) is to be the leading business development consulting firm in Laos, known for our exceptional expertise, innovative solutions, and unwavering commitment to client success. we strive to be the go-to partner for businesses seeking to achieve their growth objectives, build strong brands, and create impactful events. Through our visionary approach, continuous learning, and dedication to excellence, we envision a future where CCC is synonymous with business success and is instrumental in shaping the growth and prosperity of businesses in Laos.
Address: Nhonwaiy village, Xaysettha District, Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR
Tel: +856 20 5204 1783
Email: denis.chabassier@ags-globalsolutions.com
Website: www.ags-demenagement.com
MOVERS LAOS: AGS Movers Laos is your international removal partner, offering customised and innovative moving and storage services for individuals and businesses. AGS Movers Laos‘s expertise will ensure your move is professional and seamless no matter where you move to.
With over 51 years’ experience, we refine our choices of partners best able to meet the needs and requirements of our clients. Trusted and reliable, all our partners in Laos ensure professionalism and world class quality standards in removals.
Wherever you go, from or to Laos, our partners are committed to providing you with the best in domestic removals and secure storage services.
Address: Ban Khili, Luang Prabang, Laos
Tel: +856 20 57 890 001
Email: info@lpfilmfest.org
Website: www.lpfilmfest.org
Since its inception in 2009 as the Luang Prabang Film Festival, Blue Chair has operated as a non-profit cultural organization committed to the celebration of Southeast Asian film, as well as to the growth of local and regional film communities. Our current name is simply the image of a blue resin chair, signalling our devotion to providing access to great cinema in a relaxed, world-class context.
The festival brings together Southeast Asian storytellers and their films. Our “Motion Picture Ambassadors” suggest selections each year from Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, and our program team showcases the best of these in the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage town of Luang Prabang, Laos.
This inspiring environment provides an ideal backdrop for artists and industry professionals to share their experiences and talents. A festival’s festival, Blue Chair has often been recognized as one of the most alluring and exciting locations on the international film festival circuit. All Blue Chair screenings are free and open to the public. At the main outdoor venue, we provide 800 of the iconic blue chairs — but regularly welcome eager audiences of over 1,500 people per screening.
European Chamber of
and Industy in Laos Royal Square, 3rd Floor, 20 Samsenthai Road, Nongduang Nua Village, Sikhottabong District, Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR
+856 20 5771 3365
European