Joint Chamber Networking Night
Hosted by Lao Brewery
EuroCham Meets with New EU Ambassador and DG Trade Leadership
Panyathip British International School Leads Flood Relief Efforts for Luang Namtha
Dear valued Members, Sponsors and Partners,
After joining the Chamber in early August, I am honoured to write my first foreword for the EuroCham Laos Newsletter. Relocating to a new country and starting a new role always comes with challenges; however, I have been warmly welcomed by colleagues, the Executive Committee and the entire Chamber community. During my initial weeks, I focused on meeting our members, though there are still many I look forward to connecting with soon!
In the last quarter, we greeted distinguished arrivals to the Executive Committee. I am pleased to announce the addition of two members: Ms. Nway Nway Hay Mhan, Country Manager at FocusCore, and Mr. Michael De Clerque, CEO at BFL Bred Group, whose leadership and expertise will bring fresh perspectives and significantly strengthen our initiatives.
During this period, new ambassadors have arrived in Laos. We had the privilege of meeting recently appointed EU Ambassador Mark Gallagher, where we emphasized EuroCham’s commitment to supporting the international business community and shared our efforts to assist the Government in understanding the EU Deforestation Regulation, helping the country transition to responsible business practices.
Despite ongoing economic challenges, we remain committed to assisting our members in communicating their interests to Lao stakeholders. With recent regulations on managing foreign-currency income from exports, EuroCham has actively engaged in public-private discussions, suggesting alternative measures to help create a stable and prosperous business environment.
I am also pleased to share that we have strengthened the member base in the hospitality sector with the addition of the renowned DoubleTree by Hilton Vientiane and Tmark Resort in Vang Vieng.
Our ongoing relationships with cooperation agencies have also led to new members from the development sector, including Swisscontact, LuxDev, and Advantage Austria. Lastly, we recently welcomed Lanjan Holdings, Il Tavolo Vientiane, Pha Tad Ke Botanical Garden in Luang Prabang, and Waldec, further extending our reach.
Communication is at the core of our work. EuroCham has completed a full restyling, including a cutting-edge website and engaging social media profiles, where we keep our audience constantly updated. Don’t forget to follow us!
Looking ahead, we will continue expanding our advocacy efforts beyond the capital, ensuring our members’ voices are heard throughout the country. To this end, we will hold the upcoming Tourism and Hospitality group meeting in Vang Vieng to support the growth of this key sector of the Lao economy. With our member base growing in the picturesque town by the Nam Song River, October is the ideal time to gather insights and discuss ways to help ease business as the high season begins.
We have several exciting events coming up! EuroCham, in collaboration with AustCham Lao, invites all members to the Joint Chamber Networking Night on October 16, hosted by Lao Brewery Company. This exclusive event is for members only and offers a fantastic opportunity to network with professionals from various sectors. Join us for an enjoyable evening and take part in a special beer-tasting session.
See you soon at one of our future gatherings. From Breakfast Talks to professional training sessions and networking receptions, the end of the year will offer plenty of chances to connect, meet new faces, and contribute to building our community.
With warmest regards.
EUROCHAM WORKSHOPS
Navigating The EU Deforestation Regulation
EUROCHAM AT WORK
EuroCham Meets with New EU Ambassador and DG Trade Leadership.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Joint Chamber Networking NightHosted by Lao Brewery
MEMBERS’ STORIES
EUROCHAM EVENTS
Green Season Networking Cocktail Sponsored by Tmark
EUROCHAM AT WORK
MEMBER VISIT - EuroCham Laos
Leadership Visits RMA Lao and APAPhongsavanh Insurance
MEMBERS & SPONSORS’ NEWS
MEMBERS’ STORIES
With around 90% of global deforestation driven by agricultural expansion—a trend also prevalent in Southeast Asia—the EUDR, entered into force in June 2023. With the EU regulation on deforestation-free products (EUDR), the EU aims to minimise the EU’s contribution to deforestation and forest degradation worldwide and thereby its contribution to climate change, greenhouse gas emissions and biodiversity loss.
The Regulation serves as a critical tool in the implementation of the European Green Deal (EGD), reinforcing its objectives by addressing deforestation and promoting sustainable practices within the EU and beyond.
Furthermore, the European Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Laos is aligning its initiatives with the EGD to support local businesses in understanding EU regulations related to sustainability and fostering partnerships that contribute to a more sustainable future for both Laos and the EU.
On 3 July, the EU Delegation to Lao PDR, in collaboration with Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry co-hosted the first High Level Workshop on EU Regulation on Deforestation-free Products (EUDR) in Vientiane. The workshop was organized by European Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Lao PDR (ECCIL).
The EUDR aims to guarantee that the products EU citizens consume do not contribute to deforestation or forest degradation worldwide and to increase competition in the export of goods from the Lao PDR to the EU market in the future.
This workshop provided a platform for mutual exchange and stakeholder dialogue among the line ministries, such as the Ministries of Agriculture and Forestry, Commerce and Industry and Natural Resources and Environment, on the EUDR.
On August 12, 2024, the EU-Laos second High level workshop focusing on the European Union Regulation on Deforestation-Free Products (EUDR) was held at The Grand Luang Prabang Hotel. The European Chamber of Commerce proudly supported the workshop, the second in a series of four. The objectives of the workshop were the following:
• Raise awareness and enhance the understanding on the EUDR, its objectives and impacts among key stakeholders in northern Laos;
• Provide a platform for mutual exchange and stakeholder dialogue on the EUDR;
• Discuss and collect concerns, challenges, opportunities and recommendations for support needed among relevant stakeholders overall and by key commodities (cattle, coffee, rubber and wood).
The event in Luang Prabang brought together 68 participants, including representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF), and provincial authorities from Northern Provinces of Laos. The workshop featured presentations from the EU Delegation to Laos and included group discussions on the challenges and opportunities that come with the transition towards deforestationfree commodity production in line with the EUDR.
Additional sessions will be held in Southern and Central Laos to further disseminate information on the EUDR and its impact and gather valuable feedback from stakeholders in Laos. These efforts are crucial for supporting the country in transitioning to deforestation-free supply chains.
On the evening of Friday, August 23, 2024, EuroCham Laos hosted the much-anticipated Green Season Networking Cocktail, generously sponsored by Tmark Resort Vang Vieng. This exclusive event brought together EuroCham members, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and collaboration.
Held at the beautiful Tmark Resort Vang Vieng, the first 5-star resort in the area, the event provided a unique blend of luxury and nature, setting the perfect backdrop for an enriching evening. The resort’s exceptional hospitality, coupled with the stunning green landscapes of Vang Vieng, ensured that attendees had a memorable experience.
This event also provided an opportunity for EuroCham to introduce its new leadership team. Mette Boatman was warmly welcomed as the new President of EuroCham Laos, while Stefano Pighin was introduced as the new Executive Director. Their presence provided a valuable opportunity for members from both Vientiane and Vang Vieng to engage directly with the leadership, discuss industry challenges, and explore how EuroCham can further support the hospitality sector in Laos.
The Green Season Networking Cocktail was not only a celebration of new beginnings but also a testament to EuroCham’s commitment to fostering meaningful connections among its members. The event served as a platform to share insights, explore synergies, and discuss opportunities for mutual growth.
EuroCham Laos is committed to organizing more events like the Green Season Networking Cocktail to help members connect, collaborate, and grow. We are already looking forward to our next gathering, including the upcoming Hospitality Advocacy Working Group meeting in Vang Vieng, where we will continue to build on these important conversations.
A heartfelt thank you to Tmark Resort for hosting this wonderful event, and to all members who attended, making the evening memorable. Your enthusiasm drives us to continue organizing events that strengthen the business community and promote collaboration across sectors.
www.tmarkresortvangvieng.com
The European Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Laos (EuroCham) participated in the recent PublicPrivate Consultative Meeting hosted by the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LNCCI), acting as the secretariat of the Lao Business Forum (LBF) on August 27, 2024. The meeting focused on the implementation of Decision No. 333/BOL concerning the managing of foreign currency revenue from exports. This topic is of significant interest to many members of the business community in Laos, including many of our members.
The consultative meeting focused on analyzing the new decree and developing practical solutions to help the private sector overcome regulation implementation challenges. Attendees from EuroCham included Mr Lukasz Nitka, EuroCham Vice President and Partner & Director of the J&C Group, Mr Stefano Pighin, EuroCham Executive Director and Ms Mingngakham Pangnasak, EuroCham External Relations Officer.
In his speech, Mr Nitka presented feedback gathered through a survey among the members of several international Chambers of Commerce, including EuroCham Laos, the Australian Chamber of Commerce (AustCham), the American-Lao Business Association, the British Business Group and the Japanese Chamber of Commerce (JCCIL). This feedback underlines significant concerns over Decree 333. A striking 87% of respondents indicated the decree would negatively impact their businesses, with 77% believing it would harm the Lao economy on longer terms.
Critical issues raised include misalignment of bank exchange rates with actual currency values, which could
lead to financial losses and bankruptcies. Limited access to foreign currency also increases risks for international transactions, prompting many companies to halt new investments and redirect resources away from Laos. If not addressed, these trends pose serious challenges to economic growth.
Mr Nitka continued that the decree’s implications may go beyond individual businesses, threatening the broader Lao economy. One concern is capital flight, as companies may keep foreign currency outside Laos, weakening local banking systems. Additionally, Lao companies could see reduced competitiveness on the international stage due to higher operational costs and limited currency availability. This financial uncertainty may also drive inflation, as rising commodity prices become more likely in such a volatile environment.
In light of these findings, Mr Nitka shared thoughts for the government to consider alternative interventions:
• Enhanced Transparency: Establishing clear communication regarding foreign currency regulations and their impacts.
• Review of Decree Implementation: Proposing a time-limited review period for the decree to restore investor confidence.
• Incentives for Compliance: Introducing attractive rates for exporters to encourage the use of official channels for remittances.
EuroCham remains committed to advocating for the interests of the international business community in Laos. By engaging in constructive dialogue with the Lao government, the chamber aims to ensure policies are conducive to a stable and prosperous business environment. The insights gathered from the recent meeting will be instrumental in shaping future discussions and potential reforms regarding foreign currency management in Laos.
EuroCham Meets with New EU Ambassador and DG Trade Leadership.
On September 19, EuroCham Laos had the honour of meeting Mr Mark Gallagher, the newly appointed EU Ambassador to Lao PDR, and Ms Maria Martin Prat, Deputy Director General of the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Trade Policy, alongside representatives from the EU Delegation in Lao PDR and the Directorate-General for Trade.
The meeting offered an opportunity for EuroCham’s Executive Committee to share insights on the chamber’s ongoing support to
the international business community in Laos, highlighting the commitment to promoting sustainable economic and social development in the country. Discussions also addressed the challenges posed by Laos’ current economic situation while exploring solutions and opportunities for European companies and the private sector to thrive.
EuroCham looks forward to continuing this important dialogue to improve economic growth and strengthen collaborative efforts.
EuroCham Laos Leadership Visits Platinum Sponsor RMA Lao and Silver Sponsor APA - Phongsavanh Insurance
In August, EuroCham Laos’ Executive Director Stefano Pighin and Deputy Executive Director Enrico Bargnani had the pleasure of visiting RMA Lao, our valued Platinum Sponsor and later our Silver Sponsor, APA - Phongsavanh Insurance.
RMA - A global presence in 14 countries and a workforce of over 8,000
RMA Lao began operations in Vientiane in 1994. Since then, it has been a key player in infrastructure development and has established itself as the country’s leading automotive and engineering solutions provider. The meeting with Biju Narayanan, RMA Lao’s General Manager and Head of Business, and Nouchana Chaleunsouk, Jaguar Land Rover Laos’s Operations and Customer Experience Manager, provided the opportunity for EuroCham to gain updated insights into the challenges that leading businesses face and how they navigate the complex economic environment. This valuable knowledge informs EuroCham’s regular advocacy efforts with the Lao stakeholders.
We sincerely thank RMA Lao for the warm hospitality and ongoing partnership. We look forward to continued collaboration to foster a favorable business environment that supports Laos’s business community and infrastructure development.
APA Insurance - The complete insurance company
In September, EuroCham Laos’ Executive Director, Stefano Pighin, and Deputy Executive Director, Enrico Bargnani, were pleased to meet with Dean Robertson, CEO of Phongsavanh Insurance APA.
APA is a leading provider of comprehensive insurance services, offering life and general insurance. With a strong financial foundation and decades of experience in Laos, Phongsavanh Insurance is dedicated to supporting customers through all stages of life.
Phongsavanh Insurance (APA) is the first insurance company in Lao that bring in a number of new insurance products to Lao PDR and develop a number of new and innovative coverages based on clients’ requireme
We would like to thank the Phongsavanh Insurance Team for the hearty welcome; we are proud to support our valued Sponsor in promoting insurance awareness and knowledge across the country.
On September 17, 2024, EuroCham Laos participated in the Private Sector Working Group on Tourism meeting, hosted by the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LNCCI) as part of the Lao Business Forum (LBF). Ms. Mingngakham Pangnasak, EuroCham’s External Relations Officer, represented EuroCham at the meeting, which was chaired by Mr. Inthy Deuansavanh. Esteemed representatives from various chambers, associations, hotels, restaurants, tour companies, and airlines were also in attendance.
The meeting addressed key challenges facing the tourism sector, focusing on advancing the establishment of the Tourism Marketing Promotion Chamber. Discussions included proposals to the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism (MOICT) and the Ministry of Public Security to implement digital online payment systems for approving tour companies. This shift aims to streamline the process for tourists entering the country, saving time and costs at the border.
A notable topic raised was the private sector’s proposal for the Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MPWT) and MOICT to allow motorbike and bicycle caravans into Laos without requiring approval through tour companies. Furthermore, the group discussed the adoption of a national masterplan to enhance the management of tourism sites across the country.
The conversation also covered recent changes to Laos’ visa policy, designed to attract more international tourists during Lao Tourism Year 2024. The new directive, effective from July 1, 2024, allows tourists from several countries to apply for multi-entry visas at Lao embassies or consulates. Visitors from countries including Australia, New Zealand, the United States, Canada, and many European nations can now stay for up to 60 days, doubling the previous limit of 30 days. Additionally, tourists from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Austria, Belgium, Spain, and Greece benefit from a visa exemption, allowing a 15-day stay without a visa sticker.
These changes mark a proactive approach to revitalizing the tourism sector by removing barriers and extending stay durations for international visitors. The policy will remain in effect until December 31, 2024.
The outcomes of the meeting will be discussed further at the Lao Business Forum (LBF) in March 2025.
On September 19, 2024, EuroCham Laos participated in a dissemination meeting regarding notification No. 2721 issued on 13 August 2024, which refers to the directive from the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare (MoLSW) addressing policies and regulations related to labor and employee salaries in Lao PDR.
The meeting, organized by the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LNCCI) in collaboration with the MoLSW, informed the participants on the procedures that employers should follow when compensating their employees across all sectors. According to the notification, entities that determine
and agree on salaries and benefits for their employees in foreign currency but pay in LAK must use an exchange rate that is no less than the rate issued by a relevant commercial bank within the three working days prior to calculating the LAK salary and benefit amounts.
The next step involves translating this notification into English by LNCCI.
As part of the ongoing public-private dialogue with the Government of Laos, LNCCI, and other relevant stakeholders, EuroCham is pleased to engage in productive discussions with the Government of Lao PDR.
Come rain or shine, we’ll have a good time!
On 07 September 2024, Defender Club Laos organized a shooting competition at the 5 April International Shooting Range, Vientiane Capital, Laos sponsored by Lao Land Rover.
This activity aims to strengthen relations, friendship, and unity among Defender Club Lao members and Lao Land Rover. Defender Club Laos shooting competition is suitable for novices and crackshots alike, our experienced instructors provide expert tuition based on the ability level of our members. These thrilling experiences and activities are suitable for people of all ages and abilities because Target shooting ranges can be indoors or outdoors. It’s challenging on an individual level and is very personal to the shooter.
After the 5 April International Shooting Range, we stopped at the 36 Manor Hotel for buffet-style Chinese Dining Etiquette. We are pleased to see that our members having fun and enjoying the activity and they request to attend the next event together.
As we gear up for the 10th anniversary of the Luang Prabang Half Marathon on October 26th, 2024, we are thrilled to invite you to be part of this milestone event. With less than a month to go, time is running out to secure your spot in this celebrated race. This year’s marathon offers three engaging distances for runners of all levels: 7km, 14km, and the full 21km half marathon. Our goal is to reach a record-breaking 3,000 runners, and we need your help to make it happen!
The Luang Prabang Half Marathon has become a cornerstone event in our annual calendar, drawing participants from across the globe to experience the charm and beauty of Luang Prabang. Whether you’re aiming for the 21km challenge, the 14km course, or the 7km run, there’s a distance for everyone. By joining us, you’ll not only embrace wellness and enjoy a scenic route but also contribute to a worthy cause. 100% of the proceeds from the marathon will go directly to the Lao Friends Hospital for Children in Luang Prabang, which provides free medical treatment to over 40,000 children annually.
Don’t miss this opportunity to make a difference while celebrating our 10th anniversary!
Registration is filling up fast, so secure your place today by visitting our website: “ www.luangprabangmarathon.com “ or registering in person at the Friends Visitor Centre - The Blue House, Anakha.
Help us reach our goal of 3,000 runners and make this event truly unforgettable. We look forward to seeing you at the starting line in beautiful Luang Prabang!
In the wake of the devastating floods in Luang Namtha, northern Laos, the Panyathip British International School community has come together to offer essential support to those affected. The flooding, triggered by heavy rains, has caused significant damage to homes, schools, farmlands, and public infrastructure, leaving many families in urgent need of help.
In the immediate aftermath of the flood, our school community rallied together and successfully delivered 660 essential care packages to support families in need. These packages contained non-perishable food, hygiene items, and other necessities to bring relief to those affected by the floods.
Following this effort, our CEO and COO, together with the Minister of Education, Dr. Phout Simmalavong, visited the flood-hit areas to assess the damage and offer further assistance. Their visit highlighted the importance of continuous support for the rebuilding efforts in the region, and it strengthened our school’s commitment to making a meaningful impact.
On the morning of September 28, 2024, our Student Council, teachers and staff, visited one of the most affected schools in Luang Namtha. They personally delivered donations of essential supplies, such as food, hygiene items, and school materials. The visit offered our students a valuable opportunity to see firsthand the challenges faced by the local community and to contribute directly to the relief efforts.
During their visit, our students actively participated in helping the affected school recover. With teachers and staff, they helped repaint classrooms and assisted with various on-site tasks aimed at restoring a welcoming learning environment for local students. This hands-on allowed our students to experience the importance of community service and compassion.
At Panyathip British International School, we value compassion and support, fostering an environment that reaches into the communities around us. Our initiative in Luang Namtha exemplifies the power of collective action to make a meaningful impact.
Address: Manthatourath Road, Ban Xieng Nguen, Chanthabouly District, Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR
Tel: +856 21 457 878
Email: vtevl_info@hilton.com
Website: www.hilton.com
Your passport to vibrant Vientiane - We’re in the city center and offer rooms and suites with views of the city or Mekong River. Cultural attractions like the Vientiane Night Market Mekong, Lao National Culture Hall, and Wat Mixai temple are within 300 meters. Enjoy our amenities, including a restaurant and rooftop pool. Every stay starts with a warm DoubleTree Chocolate Chip Cookie.
Address: Wat That Village, Luang Prabang Province, Lao PDR
Tel: +856 20 2254 0888
Email: rik.gadella@pha-tad-ke.com
Website: www.pha-tad-ke.com
The centrepiece of Pha Tad Ke is a series of ethno-botanic gardens. Focusing on the relationship between Lao people and their plants, these gardens showcase plants used in medicine, handicraft, spiritual ceremonies as well as medicinal plants for elephants. The potential of this collection, much of which is yet unstudied, is immense. Although the traditional knowledge of the ethnic minorities about the plants in rural Laos is extensive, it is passed down orally, making it vulnerable to the pressures of development and very much in need of conservation and further in-depth study.
Address: Dongpayna Road, Saphanthong Neua Village Sisattanak District, Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR
Tel: +856 21 417 237
Email: office.asia@luxdev.lu
Website: www. luxdev.lu
LuxDev is the Luxembourg bilateral development cooperation agency, active in Africa, Asia, Latin America and Europe. Its mission is to actively participate in the implementation of the development cooperation policy of the Luxembourg government, which mainly focuses on poverty eradication and sustainable development in its social, economic and environmental aspects. In Laos, we implement programmes in health and nutrition, technical and vocational training in Tourism/Hospitality and Agriculture/Forestry, Local Development and the Rule of Law, Access to Justice and Good Governance.
Address: Muangsong Village, Vang Vieng Distrcit, Vientiane Province, Lao PDR
Tel: +856 23 511 901
Email: info@tmarkresortvangvieng.com
Website: www.tmarkresortvangvieng.com
Tmark Resort Vangvieng is the first brand of Tmark Hotels & Resort in Laos. This first 5-Star Resort in Vangvieng will be the place where human and nature interact. In addition, at Tmark Resort, we boasts a panoramic view of the Karstic Mountains and Nam Song River. We strive to provide excellent service to all our guests.
Address: Simeung Village, Sisattanak District, Vientiane Capital, Laos
Tel: +856 2088542528
Email: daosengaloun@gmail.com
Facebook page: IL Tavolo Vientiane
At IL Tavolo Vientiane, we offer more than just pizza. Experience true Neapolitan-style pizza crafted with authentic ingredients and traditional methods. Alongside our delectable pizzas, we provide a variety of Italian dishes for your enjoyment. IL Tavolo also offers services for company parties, birthday celebrations, and other special events, ensuring that all your gatherings are well taken care of with our exceptional quality service.
Address: Saphanthong Neua Village, Sisattanak District, Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR
Tel: +856 21 454 148
Email: laopdr@swisscontact.org
Website: www.swisscontact.org
Swisscontact is an independent, non-profit foundation established in 1959 by exponents of the Swiss private sector. Swisscontact has been active in the Lao PDR since 2013 with projects in vocational education and training to improve people’s skills and provide them opportunities for a secure income and active participation in the labour market, as well as in the areas of sustainable tourism, waste management, and promoting sustainable consumption and production to create economic opportunities that address climate change and are environmentally sustainable
Address: Hom 18, Phao Village, Hadxayfong District, Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR
Tel: +856 20 9597 9676
Email: jeetendra@lanjanholdings.com
Website: www.lanjanholdings.com
Founded on Laos’ unique and rich tangible and intangible natural, cultural and architectural heritage, Lanjan commenced operations in 2017. Lanjan is a Lao registered company involved in heritage property, supply of own design handwoven Fabric for Life via Marcelline & San, organic farming and consultancy. Restored and managed Heritage for Life properties depict Lan Na, Tai Dai, Dong, Tai Lue and Vientiane styles. The acres of Vientiane residential, commercial and agricultural properties managed include Sandalwood, Hor Tamhuk and Heun Lanna, situated at Natures Sanctuary, a botanical garden and organic farm.
Blending Tradition and Luxury in the Heart of Vientiane
Nestled in the heart of Laos, Crowne Plaza Vientiane is a beacon of luxury, culture, and hospitality. As Vientiane’s first international fivestar hotel, it has set a new standard for excellence, elevating Laotian hospitality to global standards while preserving the rich heritage of Laos.
A Vision Realized: Opened in 2017, the hotel’s architecture blends contemporary design with traditional Laotian elements, offering a luxurious yet welcoming ambiance. From intricate woodwork to traditional silk decor, every detail reflects local artistry.
Unparalleled Accommodations: With 198 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, Crowne Plaza Vientiane offers stunning city or Mekong River views, modern amenities, and luxurious bedding. The exclusive Club Lounge providespersonalized services in a tranquil setting.
Dining Excellence: The hotel offers diverse dining options. Mosaic serves international and local dishes with fresh ingredients. 3 Merchants offers authentic Laotian cuisine with a modern twist, and The Elephant Lounge provides a relaxing spot for drinks and light snacks.
Wellness and Relaxation: Guests can rejuvenate in the state-of-the-art fitness center, infinity pool, or Senses Spa, which offers treatments inspired by traditional Laotian practices.
Business and Events: Crowne Plaza Vientiane is a top choice for meetings and events, featuring over 1,200 square meters of event space, including a grand ballroom. With cutting-edge audiovisual equipment and a dedicated planning team, every event is seamless.
Community and Sustainability: Committed to sustainability, the hotel practices eco-friendly initiatives like reducing plastic usage and supporting local suppliers. It also engages in community outreach, aiding local schools and organizations.
A Unique Exprerience Awaits
Combining luxury with Laotian charm, Crowne Plaza Vientiane offers a unique experience for travelers. Whether for business or leisure, guests enjoy elegance, comfort, and the warmth of Laotian hospitality.
OneX empowers over 20,000 merchants to navigate economic challenges and unlock new opportunities
Vientiane, Laos – 18/06/2024 – The Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) faces a shifting economic landscape, where consumer habits are evolving while rising inflation puts pressure on both businesses and consumers. Sellers struggle to expand sales, while buyers prioritize value and security in online transactions.
OneX, a secure and supportive online marketplace accessible directly in BCEL One App, identified early on these challenges, and developed a secure payment system that protects both parties. As a buyer in OneX, your money is held safely until you confirm receiving your order, ensuring sellers get paid only upon successful delivery. As a seller, you are protected against fraudulent purchase with the guarantee to receive quick payments for your online sales.
OneX goes beyond providing a marketplace . Its dedicated team provides free training to new sellers, helping them open online shops and sell their products effectively. OneX also operates on a performance-based model, where sellers only pay fees when they make sales. Additionally, OneX recently reduced its commissions to help local merchants maintain their margins and weather the current economic challenges.
This approach has empowered over 20,000 merchants to reach Lao consumers of all ages, with security being a top priority for both sellers and buyers.
OneX is experiencing tremendous growth since its opening, with sellers seeing an average 30% increase in sales volume and user engagement each month.
OneX extends its reach beyond the platform. It helps sellers reach new customers by promoting their products on popular social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Additionally, One showcases Lao products at international events like the Korea Ecommerce Fair 2023, increasing exposure for Lao businesses in the global market.
In 2015, three language enthusiasts with a mastery over both the Lao and English languages set the foundation for what would soon become a groundbreaking venture. Originating as a translation service, our company carved its niche by adeptly navigating between languages for documents, movie titles, and conference services. This initial success was merely the beginning.
As our expertise in language became our trademark, we expanded our horizons into the media sector. In 2017, we started developing magazines and SPdigital content that resonated with Laosbased, diaspora, and regional audiences, enriching the media content landscape about Laos with engaging narratives and insightful commentary.
The leap into marketing was a natural progression. We gathered a team of like-minded and talented people, each fluent in the language of our clients and their audiences, to offer marketing solutions that stood out for their depth and understanding.This move was part of not only our business growth strategy, but also revamping the image of Laos, one that the country and its people could be proud of and promote together.
Blue Chair — a celebration of Southeast Asian cinema held in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Luang Prabang, Lao PDR — invites you to join us once again this year for our biennial film festival from 5 to 9 December!
A not-for-profit project, Blue Chair fosters cross-cultural dialogue within the region and supports the emerging film industry in Laos. Throughout the year, we organize a range of cultural events and educational activities, from public film screenings to workshops and grants for Lao film projects through the Lao Filmmakers Fund. With a rich history of connecting both regional and international filmmakers, supporting the Lao domestic film industry, and presenting a free, curated selection of contemporary Southeast Asian film, Blue Chair has been a force in the region for more than 12 years.
This year’s festival will take place across multiple venues in the city, including night venues at Luang Prabang Primary School and Heuan Chan Heritage House. As always, the entire five-day event will be free of charge and completely open to the public for attendance.
In addition to the films presented, this year’s festival will include panels and discussions, live evening performances, special screenings, and public discussions. We expect to showcase a slate of films from 9 regional countries, including Laos, Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, Myanmar, Singapore, Cambodia, Indonesia, and Malaysia. By working with expert curators with an inside understanding of the film scenes in each country, Blue Chair presents a unique program that consistently delivers some of the strongest voices from across the region.
The 2024 festival would not be possible without the generous support of donors and sponsors, including fellow EuroCham members Laothani and Lao Brewery Company, hotel partners, travel partners, and support from local businesses across Luang Prabang.
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