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Laos
Country reopens without restrictions for fully vaccinated travellers on 9 May.
Lockdown Status
Open
Inbound Travel
Open
Outbound Travel
Open
Confirmed
209,607
28,405 per million
7 Day Rolling Ave
+52 βΌ
-58% vs prev week
Deaths
754
102.2 per million
Fully Vaccinated
4,977,532
67.45% of pop.
Source: Cases - John Hopkins University (2022-05-19).
Vaccine - World Health Organization (2022-05-12).
Retrieved from OurWorldInData.org
Latest Travel Industry News
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29-May-2022 π¨ββοΈ aviationLao Airlines will increase their frequency to Bangkok, flying three times per week from 22 MaySource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3283041821980628/
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13-May-2022 π¬ inboundThe latest World Bank report on Laos forecasts the countryβs 202 GDP to increase by 3.8%, but has noted that βProblems caused by two years of lockdowns and restrictions for Covid-19 are now being compounded by rising prices, especially for fuel and food, partly because of the war in Ukraine and the rapid depreciation of the kipβSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/05/13/laos-economic-recovery-challenged-by-debt-and-rising-prices/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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13-May-2022 π¬ inboundThe rainy season has now started in LaosSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/05/13/rainy-season-begins-in-laos/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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13-May-2022 π¬ inboundThe COVID Taskforce will no longer announce its COVID-19 cases in a daily reportSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/05/13/covid-task-force-discontinues-daily-announcements/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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13-May-2022 π¬ inboundThai tour operators have started to conduct inspection trips to Laos to assess the countryβs offerings for tourism packagesSource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Thai90.php?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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13-May-2022 π¬ inboundFrom 9-11 May, 860 people have entered Laos from Thailand via the land border, whilst 900 have crossed into Thailand via the land border \Source: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Thai90.php?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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13-May-2022 π¬ inbound: Khammuan province has opened new adventure activities at the Tham Xieng Lieb cave as a new tourist attractionSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3294507094167434/
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12-May-2022 π¬ inboundThailandβs Thonburi Healthcare group is looking at investing in healthcare and tourism in Laos, as they estimate around 40% of the countryβs GDP is generated from these industriesSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2308422/health-group-touts-investment-in-laos?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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12-May-2022 π¬ inboundThe Laotian Times has reported that Lao residents are making trips across the Thai border to fill up on fuel, despite the worsening Thai Baht-Kip exchange rateSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/05/12/fuel-tourism-as-laotians-cross-into-thailand-to-fill-up/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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11-May-2022 π¬ inboundThe Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism has asked its provinces to prepare properly for the arrival of international tourists. It is encouraging tourism businesses to enrol in LaoSafe, and has said that the media will soon launch a publicity campaign around the reopeningSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2022/05/11/preparations-intensify-for-expected-influx-of-tourists-to-laos?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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11-May-2022 π¬ inboundThe first full day of reopening saw 100 people crossed into Thailand from Laos, and around 300 enter Laos from ThailandSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2022/05/11/preparations-intensify-for-expected-influx-of-tourists-to-laos?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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11-May-2022 π¨ββοΈ aviationLao Airlines is planning to increase its flights to Incheon International AirportSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2022/05/11/preparations-intensify-for-expected-influx-of-tourists-to-laos?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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10-May-2022 π¬ inboundVientiane International Airport received no international flights on 9 May, but expected 3 international flights on 10 MaySource: laotiantimes.com/2022/05/10/quiet-at-laos-border-checkpoints-on-first-day-of-full-reopening/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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10-May-2022 π¬ inboundTourism sites around the Nam Ngum Reservoir will be closed for 18 months for redevelopmentSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/05/10/vientiane-province-closes-touristic-sites-in-nam-ngum-reservoir/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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10-May-2022 π¬ inboundQueues have been reported at Vientiane petrol stations after Laos has been experiencing fuel shortages for the last few weeks. Importers of fuel have said that they are only able to obtain around 20% of the total fuel required by the countrySource: laotiantimes.com/2022/05/10/laos-fuel-crisis-nears-breaking-point-as-vientiane-capital-runs-dry/
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09-May-2022 π¬ inboundThe new road from the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone to Bokeo International Airport is almost complete. 75% of the international airport in Tonpheung district in Bokeo province has been completed, and is expected to be ready for domestic use by the year-endSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3291104024507741/
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07-May-2022 π¬ inboundLaos is looking at seeking cheaper fuel from Russia as a way to stabilise domestic fuel pricesSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/05/07/laos-to-seek-oil-from-russia/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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07-May-2022 π¬ inboundLaos has announced that it will remove the majority of requirements for entry of vaccinated travellers to the country from 9 May, including: β’ All international checkpoints will be open for entry by Lao citizens, foreign residents, tourists and other visitors β’ Citizens whose countries have visa waiver agreements with Laos may enter without a visa β’ Those citizens whose countries do not have a visa waiver will be able to apply for a visa at the embassies or via the e-visa online system. Visas on arrival will be reopened at certain checkpoints β’ Fully vaccinated travellers can enter Laos without testing when arriving by land, air or water β’ Non-vaccinated travellers must take a rapid antigen test within 48 hours of departureSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/05/07/laos-drops-testing-for-vaccinated-tourists-announces-full-reopening/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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07-May-2022 π¬ inboundThe reopening of entertainment venues and karaoke bars will be permittedSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/05/07/laos-drops-testing-for-vaccinated-tourists-announces-full-reopening/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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06-May-2022 π¬ inboundLaosβ inflation in Apr grew to 9.9%, up from 8.5% in MarSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/05/06/inflation-reaches-over-9-percent-in-laos/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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05-May-2022 π¬ inboundThe World Bank will support 11 projects in Laos from 2022-2026 at a cost of around $395 million USD, focusing on green growth, investment in human resource development, and environmental protectionSource: en.people.cn/n3/2022/0505/c90000-10092443.html?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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05-May-2022 π¬ inboundA new expressway between Houaphan province to the Vietnamese border has seen an MOU signed for a feasibility studySource: laotiantimes.com/2022/05/05/new-expressway-to-link-houaphanh-province-with-vietnam/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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04-May-2022 π¬ inboundThe government has urged the public to get booster doses as a requirement for foreign travel. The booster dose percentage is 19.4% of the populationSource: www.china.org.cn/world/Off_the_Wire/2022-05/04/content_78200089.htm?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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01-May-2022 π¬ inboundThe government has agreed to raise the minimum wage from the current LAK 1,100,000 USD per month to LAK 1,500,000. This has been criticised by the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LNCCI), who are concerned that it will put too much of a burden on employersSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/05/01/government-of-laos-agrees-to-raise-minimum-wage/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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29-Apr-2022 π¬ inbound210 million USD has been received by Laos to reduce poverty over the last 18 years, lifting 1.3 million out of povertySource: laotiantimes.com/2022/04/29/usd-210-million-spent-on-poverty-reduction-in-laos-since-2003/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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29-Apr-2022 π¬ inboundThe Laos state authorities and tourism stakeholders have pushed the government to reopen by 1 May to all nationalities. It was recommended that tourists must be fully vaccinated, and would not need a test pre-departure, but undergo an RT-PCR and antigen test on arrival. Those visiting on a daytrip would need a vaccinate certificate and an antigen test within 48 hours. Visas on arrival would be available at borders, and e-visas could be obtained online, as well as have a travel insurance policy of $10,000 USD. Those who booked via a travel company would need an antigen test on arrival and must stay at a designated hotel until their results are released, whilst independent travellers would need to test but could receive their result within an hour. Those who are not vaccinated would need to quarantine for 7 days. Travellers could then travel to any area of LaosSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2022/04/29/laos-tourism-ministry-and-tour-operators-request-full-reopening-for-foreign-tourists-starting-may-1?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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29-Apr-2022 π¬ inboundThe COVID-19 Taskforce has sought public opinion on proposed entry requirements for Laos by 3 May, including: β’ E-visas or visas upon entry available at borders β’ Those unvaccinated needs an RT-PCR test within 72 hours of departure β’ Those vaccinated need an antigen test within 24 hours of departure, no testing on arrival β’ Insurance coverage of $10,000 USD β’ Travellers can use any vehicle once inside LaosSource: www.facebook.com/SparkTranslation/photos/pcb.331620212393042/331616499060080
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28-Apr-2022 π¬ inboundHuaphan will promote Pha Three Hill as a tourist attraction, as it now has greater accessibility. The province plans to build more tourism facilities to encourage visitorsSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3282043762080434/
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26-Apr-2022 π¨ββοΈ aviationLao Airlines now flies to Hanoi twice per weekSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3280727282212082/
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25-Apr-2022 π¬ inboundThe Laos Pipeline STR report has shown that of is 84 property respondents, there are 16.67% of hotels in Planning and Final Stages, 66.67% in Construction phase, with half of those located in Vientiane. Average occupancy in 2021 was 17.8%, vs 2020βs 27.6% and 2019βs 55.4%. The average ADR in 2021 was 527,000 LAK vs 2019βs 758,000 LAKSource: www.hospitalitynet.org/opinion/4110116.html?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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25-Apr-2022 π¬ inboundA feasibility study of an expressway from Vientiane-Pakse has been completed. It is expected to link the two in a 5-hour tripSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/04/25/feasibility-study-completed-for-vientiane-to-pakse-expressway/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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22-Apr-2022 π¬ inboundLuang Prabang has seen 67,000 domestic visitors from Jan-Mar, +74% YoY. During Lao New Year, 16,500 people visited Luang Prabang, with some hotels fully bookedSource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Luang76.php?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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21-Apr-2022 π¬ inboundThe Laos Cabinet and National Assembly have met to discuss how to boost the economySource: laotiantimes.com/2022/04/21/laos-cabinet-and-national-assembly-meet-to-discuss-economic-woes/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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21-Apr-2022 π¬ inboundLaos will host the 38th SEA games in 2029Source: laotiantimes.com/2022/04/21/laos-to-host-sea-games-in-2029/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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20-Apr-2022 π¬ inboundThe Health authorities have said that everyone entering Laos through Wattay International Airport should take a COVID test, with an RT-PCR test within 24 hours of departure and an antigen test on arrivalSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2022/04/20/all-travellers-required-to-take-a-covid-test-on-arrival-in-laos?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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18-Apr-2022 π¬ inboundHealth officials have warned of a potential surge in cases after Pi MaiSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/04/18/health-officials-warn-of-covid-19-surge-after-lao-new-year/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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15-Apr-2022 π¬ inboundThe National Taskforce for COVID-19 prevention and control has said that they are actively preparing for a full reopening. Under new regulations, travellers will need two tests, one RT-PCR test 72 hours before departure and one rapid antigen test on arrival. Those with negative antigen tests will be able to travel freely in the country. The PM has agreed βin principleβ to a reopening and that they should βdraw upon lessons from neighbouring countriesβSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/04/15/laos-prepares-for-full-reopening-testing-still-required/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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15-Apr-2022 π¬ inboundTourists who have recovered from COVID-19 will not need to take a RT-PCR test before entering LaosSource: en.vietnamplus.vn/tourists-recovered-from-covid19-not-required-to-take-covid19-test-before-entering-laos/225102.vnp?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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12-Apr-2022 π¬ inboundTour operators from Laos and South Korea are looking at how to attract more Korean tourists to Laos, after the first group visited under the Green Travel Zone Plan. The Laos-Korea Tourism Association held a seminar, with 60 cities represented in 22 Asian countriesSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2022/04/12/lao-korean-businesses-mull-ways-to-attract-more-korean-tourists
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12-Apr-2022 π¬ inboundThe biggest group of tourists so far, 28 from Korea, visited Laos from 2-9 Apr. Since the programβs start, 505 tourists have visited under the Laos Green Travel Zone schemeSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2022/04/12/lao-korean-businesses-mull-ways-to-attract-more-korean-tourists
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11-Apr-2022 π¬ inboundLaos has been ranked last place in the Nikkei COVID-19 Recovery IndexSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/04/11/laos-ranked-last-in-nikkei-covid-recovery-index/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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11-Apr-2022 π¬ inboundLong queues have been seen at the Laos-China Railway ticket offices, ahead of travel for Pi MaiSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/04/11/lao-new-year-ticket-turmoil-on-laos-china-railway/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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09-Apr-2022 π¬ inboundThe Skills for Tourism Project Steering Committee has seen more than 11,000 people take part in training supported by the project, as well as the rollout of the LaoSafe programSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2022/04/09/laos-skills-for-tourism-project-ready-and-poised-for-its-final-year-of-implementation?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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08-Apr-2022 π¬ inboundLaosβ inflation in Mar grew to 8.5%, a 5-year high. Inflation is being driven by increases in oil and imported items. The government is trying to find a solution to the problem, and the World Bank has downgraded Laosβ GDP forecast from 4.5% to 3.8% in 2022Source: laotiantimes.com/2022/04/08/uncontrollable-inflation-reaches-8-percent-in-laos/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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08-Apr-2022 π¬ inboundThe extension of the Laos-Thailand Railway from inner Vientiane and Thanaleng Station is forecast to be finished by Jun 2022. It is expected that this will boost pax and tourist numbersSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/04/08/railway-extension-between-laos-and-thailand-to-be-complete-by-june/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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08-Apr-2022 π¬ inboundThe Laos-China Railway has added another departure for trains operating between 12-17 Apr, due to increased demandSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/posts/3266822333602577/
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07-Apr-2022 π¬ inboundLaos has started to impose VAT on foreign e-commerce and tech platforms, including online hotel platformsSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/04/07/laos-taxes-foreign-tech-firms/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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06-Apr-2022 π¬ inboundThe Asian Development Bank has updated Laosβ economic growth forecast to 3.4% in 2022 and 3.7% in 2023Source: www.adb.org/countries/lao-pdr/economy
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06-Apr-2022 π¬ inboundThe World Bank has lowered the Laosβ 2022 GDP growth forecast to 3.8%, down 0.7% from its earlier forecast in Oct, due to βmultiple shocksβ in the global economy, including the Russia-Ukraine warSource: thediplomat.com/2022/04/world-bank-shaves-2022-growth-projections-for-southeast-asia/
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05-Apr-2022 π¬ inboundLaos has banned activities at high-risk of transmission during Pi Mai, including splashing waterSource: en.vietnamplus.vn/laos-bans-new-year-festivities-to-curb-covid19-transmission/224601.vnp?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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04-Apr-2022 π¬ inboundThe Tourism Ministry has proposed two options to reopen the country during Phase 2 of the Green Zone Travel Plan. Option 1 would see Laos pursue its initial plan with fully vaccinated tourists entering as FITs or on organised tours, with a limited number of provinces and entry points available to them. They would need an RT-PCR test within 72 hours of departure, and a rapid test on arrival without quarantine. Instead of the Lao Green Pass system, they would use the Laos KYC app, and e-visas and visa on arrivals would restart. Option 2 would see a full reopening of the country, although the RT-PCR pre-departure test and antigen test on arrival would still be needed for fully vaccinated tourists. The Ministry of Tourism has recommended option 2, and that an antigen test on arrival would be sufficient, with no further quarantine. It also called for the resumption of e-visas and visas on arrivalSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/04/04/laos-tourism-ministry-proposes-full-reopening/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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01-Apr-2022 π¬ inboundAll schools may reopen with face to face classes, so long as they comply with safety measuresSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/04/01/laos-covid-taskforce-reopens-primary-school-classes-under-new-measures/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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01-Apr-2022 π¬ inboundThe DICT of Vientiane Capital has reported that 384 tourists have visited Vientiane Capital under the Green Travel Zone, using the services of 16 tour companies. In total, Laos has received 505 tourists from 26 countries with 18 tour companies since the start of the scheme, with just 2 testing positive with mild symptomsSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/posts/3261810434103767/
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31-Mar-2022 π¬ inboundVientiane province has temporarily closed pubs, bars and entertainment venues, whilst Luang Namtha province requires that all travellers entering the province are fully vaccinated, as well as imposing a curfew. Savannakhet province and Houaphan provinceβs entertainment venues must also remain closedSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/03/31/provinces-in-laos-tighten-covid-19-restrictions-ahead-of-lao-new-year/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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29-Mar-2022 π¬ inboundThe Laos-China Railway has suspended passenger trains on some of its routes between Vientiane-Luang Prabang due to COVID prevention measuresSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/03/29/laos-china-railway-suspends-vientiane-luang-prabang-route-over-covid-19/
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29-Mar-2022 π¨ββοΈ aviationAirAsia will reopen its Vientiane-Kuala Lumpur flights, starting 21 Apr with one flight weeklySource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/posts/3259485021002975/
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29-Mar-2022 π vaccineA study by UNICEF has found that 99.67% of people living in Laosβ Toruism Green Zones are vaccinated and had a high level of COVID prevention measuresSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2022/04/29/nearly-100-per-cent-vaccinated-in-tourism-zones-of-laos-says-survey
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28-Mar-2022 π¬ inboundThe Lao National Socio-Economic Research Institute has reported that domestic tourism reached just 831,493 in 2021, down from 2020βs 1,581,100. It also reported an unemployment rate in 2021 of 21.8%, up from 2017βs 9.4% and noted that the overall macroeconomic stability was fragile. It expects GDP growth of 4% in 2022, and the reopening of the tourism industry is hoped to boost recovery ratesSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/03/28/overview-of-laos-economy-in-2021-and-forecast-for-2022/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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28-Mar-2022 π¬ inboundNam Et-Phou Luey National Park has reopened to visitorsSource: www.facebook.com/NamEtPhouLoueyNationalPark/photos/a.545525822181032/5175261282540773/
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28-Mar-2022 π¬ inboundThe Taste of Luang Prabang festival will be held from 8-13 AprSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/posts/3258899834394827/
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25-Mar-2022 π vaccineLaos will start its 4th dose rollouts for those who received a booster shot more than 3 months ago. Priority will be given to frontline workers, the elderly and those who are immunocompromisedSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/03/25/laos-rolls-out-fourth-covid-19-vaccine-doses/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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25-Mar-2022 π¬ inboundLuang Prabang has banned water play and large gatherings during the Lao New Year celebrationsSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/03/25/no-water-play-during-lao-new-year-in-luang-prabang/
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25-Mar-2022 π¬ inboundEXO Travel welcomed 59 guests and 10 crew to Luang Prabang, the first international group to enter through Luang Prabang airport since the pandemicSource: www.facebook.com/laotiantimes/posts/5053825104663411
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24-Mar-2022 π¬ inboundLao has confirmed that the first public holiday date for the Lao New Year (Pi Mai) will be 13 AprSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/03/24/laos-confirms-lao-new-year-holiday-dates/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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24-Mar-2022 π¬ inboundThe border gates between Son La in Vietnam and Houaphanh province in Laos are set to reopen on 1 AprSource: en.vietnamplus.vn/border-gates-between-son-la-lao-province-to-reopen-from-april/224014.vnp?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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24-Mar-2022 π¬ inboundInflation hit a 6-year high in Feb of 7.3%, up from Janβs 6.25%, due to rising cost of fuel and imported costsSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/03/24/laos-surging-inflation-a-cause-for-concern/
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24-Mar-2022 π¨ββοΈ aviationBamboo Airways and Lao Airlines have signed an aircraft hangar and maintenance agreementSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3255700138048130/
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23-Mar-2022 π¬ inboundLao Ministry of Education has closed its face-to-face primary school and preschool teaching across the country after an increase in cases, despite the WHO, UNICEF and the Lao Ministry of Health urging the government to keep them openSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/03/23/laos-closes-preschools-and-primary-schools-nationwide-amid-omicron-outbreak/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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22-Mar-2022 π¬ inboundMore restrictions have been imposed in provinces hit by an increase in cases, including Xayabouryβs Thongmixay District cancelling Lao New Year celebrations, Savannakhet closing all entertainment venues and limiting gatherings, and government ministries in Vientiane Capital instructing employees to start working from home on rotationSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/03/22/covid-measures-tightened-in-parts-of-laos-as-omicron-spreads/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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21-Mar-2022 π¬ inboundThe government is looking at ways to reduce the cost of living increase, including maintaining low domestic oil prices. It also reduced its VAT from 10% to 7% earlier in the yearSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/02/21/government-makes-urgent-attempt-to-curb-fuel-prices-in-laos/
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18-Mar-2022 π¬ inboundChampassak province has now reached 66% completion rate of its tourism-related infrastructure upgrades as part of the Second Greater Mekong Subregion Tourism Infrastructure for Inclusive Growth project, funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB)Source: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Champassak54.php?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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18-Mar-2022 π¬ inboundDespite a recommendation circulating that entry procedures would be eased, removing the requirement for a Certificate of Entry (COE), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that the requirement is still in place. The COE has proven to require much paperwork for international tourists and returning Lao residents, and many use brokers to arrange for it for them. Tour operators remain frustrated with the difficult entry systemSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/03/18/travelers-confused-and-disappointed-by-laos-entry-measures/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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17-Mar-2022 π¬ inboundLaos is preparing to list a repository of Buddhist scriptures at Simoungkhoun Temple and an ancient stupa in Salavanh Province as national heritage sitesSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/03/17/laos-prepares-two-new-sites-for-for-national-heritage-listing/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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17-Mar-2022 π¬ inboundThe building of a railway from Vientiane to Vung Au seaport in Vietnamβs Ha Tinh province is anticipated to start in Nov β22Source: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Work53.php?fbclid=IwAR1FUGNsDOw6TcQdZ0Qkb2uj4cLfs5Jg9Fgui2n7ZTntiXC-2yFPHs3HSVo
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17-Mar-2022 π¬ inboundThe Ministry of Foreign Affairs has eased entry requirements for Lao nationals and foreigners with multiple-entry visas, labor visas or spouse visas. They will no longer need to apply for a Certificate of Entry from the Lao Ministry of Foreign Affairs and can instead use the Green Pass online visa portal to apply for a QR code for entrySource: laotiantimes.com/2022/03/17/laos-eases-entry-procedures-for-foreigners-and-lao-nationals/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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16-Mar-2022 π¬ inboundThe Laos-China Railway has opened a Luang Prabang ticket office in the city, saving travellers time from going to the Railway StationSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/03/16/laos-china-railway-opens-luang-prabang-ticket-office/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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16-Mar-2022 π¬ inboundThe number of cases has spiked to 700 on 14 Mar, after previously being under 200 dailySource: laotiantimes.com/2022/03/16/covid-case-numbers-spike-amid-omicron-outbreak-in-laos/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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15-Mar-2022 π¬ inboundThe reconstruction of the sacred Moung Khoun Island in Luang Prabang has been finished in time for the Lao New YearSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/03/15/luang-prabangs-reconstructed-island-is-ready-for-pi-mai-celebrations/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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12-Mar-2022 π vaccineCambodia has donated 10 more vaccine vans to LaosSource: www.xinhuanet.com/english/asiapacific/20220312/8b193ccd6c7f43f5bbd0e4f59d9fa54c/c.html?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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11-Mar-2022 π¬ inboundLuang Prabang authorities have released a schedule for the upcoming Lao New Year festivitiesSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/03/11/luang-prabang-authorities-release-lao-new-year-events-schedule/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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11-Mar-2022 π¬ inboundThe 11th Lao National Games will be held from 13-22 Dec in Xieng Khouang province, after a break of 8 yearsSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/03/11/laos-revives-national-games-after-eight-year-hiatus/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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11-Mar-2022 π¬ inboundThe government has announced that Laos is facing a 3rd wave of cases, with an upward trend in daily casesSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/03/11/laos-faces-third-wave-of-covid-19-as-omicron-spreads/?fbclid=IwAR3XzeQ-BaNuX9bBXv5gP-LNo9e2-lJye-77gPq3CVYz379Uvd4Xh1FE8Ak
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11-Mar-2022 π¬ inboundTham Than Phou Nam caves in Viengxay district, Huaphan province, have reopenedSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3245961342355343/
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11-Mar-2022 π¬ inboundSiphandone is seeing a massive development project as part of the Siphandone Special Economic Zone, the largest investment venture in Champassak province. It will include its own airport, a town with resort and leisure facilities and landmarks such as a building constructed in the shape of a khaen, It also plans to develop the Khone Phapheng waterfall into a leading tourist destinationSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3245990942352383/
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10-Mar-2022 π¨ββοΈ aviationBangkok Airways has noted that fuel costs are 10% of their operational costs, as demand has not yet recovered. Its highest cost is leasing, at 25%. It will not opt to hedge fuel right now, and has noted that Russian tourists account for only 1% of its passengers via codeshare agreements. In 2022, it is aiming for a revenue of 8.18 billion THB, with average load factor of 65% and 2.64 million pax, 30-40% of which are international tourists. In 2021, it earned 5.67 billion THB, -44.5% YoY, and carried 540,000 pax, -72% YoY with load factor of 58.6%. It plans to launch Samui-Hong Kong and Bangkok-Siem Reap routes in Q3, Bangkok-Danang, Luang Prabang, Yangon and the Maldives in Q4. It also called for Test & Go to be scrapped, to allow seamless travel within the countrySource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2276675/call-for-surcharge-on-domestic-flights?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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10-Mar-2022 π vaccine70% of Laosβ population has received a first dose, and 59.52% are fully vaccinated. 13% have received booster dosesSource: www.xinhuanet.com/english/asiapacific/20220310/fc02fbf676d4493a9fd361258c7dc355/c.html
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10-Mar-2022 π¬ inbound: Laos has set an annual target of 4% economic growth from now until 2025. As part of this, the Laos-China Railway is indispensable and sectors have been instructed to promote the Lao Thiao Lao campaign, as well as improve tourism facilitiesSource: m.phnompenhpost.com/business/laos-sets-4-annual-gdp-rise-goal?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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09-Mar-2022 π¬ inboundLuang Prabang city won an ASEAN Clean Tourism Award and Kuang Si waterfall in Luang Prabang province won a Sustainable Tourism AwardSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/03/09/luang-prabang-city-and-kuang-si-waterfall-win-asean-tourism-awards/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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08-Mar-2022 π¬ inboundForeigners who want to enter Laos must register for a QR code (Vaccine ID) at the Lao Green Pass website. As of 4 Mar, 22 applications were approved, with 156 pending, and one rejectedSource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Online_46.php?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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06-Mar-2022 π¨ββοΈ aviationLao Airlines is reopening its flights to Hanoi from 1 Apr, with one flight weeklySource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3242509299367214/
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04-Mar-2022 π¬ inboundLaos abstained from voting to support the UN resolution to condemn Russiaβs invasion of UkraineSource: www.thaipbsworld.com/thailand-expresses-grave-concern-over-ukraine-crisis-at-un-general-assembly/
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04-Mar-2022 π¬ inboundThe LaoSafe program has now certified 45 tour guides and 30 driver. The Director General of the Tourism Management Department of the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism (MICT) noted that there is a βgrowing demandβ for businesses in the private sector to become LaoSafe certified, and they are focusing on keeping the momentum and expanding training to provinces such as Luang Prabang and Vientiane provinces. It is also in the process of certifying more hotels, tour guides, drivers and businessesSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/03/04/first-tour-guides-and-drivers-become-laosafe-certified/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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03-Mar-2022 π¬ inboundThe Moung Khoun Island reconstruction in Luang Prabang is 90% complete and is expected to be handed over in MarSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/03/03/moung-khoun-island-reconstruction-in-luang-prabang-90-complete/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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02-Mar-2022 π¬ inboundLaos has launched a new online portal which is authorised to issue the Lao Green Pass visas for certain visitors, including diplomats, employees of international organisations, businesspeople and investors, foreigners residing in Laos and overseas LaoSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/03/02/laos-launches-green-pass-online-visa-portal/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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01-Mar-2022 π¬ inbound19 individuals become LaoSafe Trainers and Assessors, and 22 businesses received LaoSafe certificationSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/03/01/businesses-attain-laosafe-certification/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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01-Mar-2022 π¬ inboundAn 8-lane road is being constructed between the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone and Bokeo International Airport, which will allow easier access. The conversion of a small domestic airport in Bokeo to an international terminal is also nearing finishSource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_New_41.php?fbclid=IwAR1DdDOX02dceNSO8M0fcCdr8j2seNcsxgVERZuXFV5O0t_VJ1ycfsG8aJA
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28-Feb-2022 π¬ inboundOnly 4 provinces in Laos have not yet reached 50% vaccination rate, with the national rate 66%Source: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2022/02/28/only-four-provinces-in-laos-yet-to-reach-majority-covid-19-vaccination?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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27-Feb-2022 π¬ inboundAs of 22 Feb, the Laos-China Railway has transported 144,610 passengers, with an occupancy rate of 68.76%Source: english.news.cn/20220227/259da5af863b438b99d8e0266620dadc/c.html?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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24-Feb-2022 π¬ inboundThe Ambassador for Russia has told Laos that Russia hopes to deepen tourism cooperation with the country, asking for Russian to be a language option for the tourism websiteSource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Laosr.php
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23-Feb-2022 π¬ inboundThe Laos-China Railway will operate slower-speed trains, as well as the high-speed ones currently operating. The railways Is looking at operating more trains during the Lao New Year periodSource: www.bignewsnetwork.com/news/272327217/china-laos-railway-to-run-additional-passenger-trains?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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23-Feb-2022 π¬ inboundThe Lao Statistics Bureau has reported that the cost of goods and services reached an increase of 5.27% since Mar 2021, with the cost of fuel and increases in categories such as hotels and restaurants being attributed for the high rate of inflationSource: www.xinhuanet.com/english/asiapacific/20220223/663e8a0d1a01444194b9c66ff73163a4/c.html
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23-Feb-2022 π¬ inboundLaos has confirmed community transmission of the Omicron variantSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/02/23/laos-confirms-community-spread-of-omicron-covid-19-variant/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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23-Feb-2022 π¬ inboundThe inaugural Lao CSR Awards has seen the Luang Prabang hotel Angsana Maison Souvannaphoum win in the Large Business Category, and online travel agent Discover Laos Today in the SME CategorySource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/posts/3234117406873070/
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21-Feb-2022 π¨ββοΈ aviationFlights have reopened between Vietnam and LaosSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/02/21/flights-resume-between-laos-and-vietnam/?fbclid=IwAR3QcPVPy7qd5u2Jxsc2bqZ_NdwU4siUTXPUWF_E2--1q8aUb0vzxRdTv9g
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20-Feb-2022 π¬ inboundThe Lao Federation of Trade Unions has reported that more than 400,000 people in Laos have lost their jobs or cannot find new ones. The unemployment rate has increased to 21.8% in 2021, with the government aiming to reduce it to 19.4% in 2022Source: en.vietnamplus.vn/covid19-causes-soaring-unemployment-in-laos/222355.vnp?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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20-Feb-2022 π vaccineLaos is looking to speed up its vaccination driveSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2022/02/20/laos-govt-aims-expedite-vaccination-programme-jabs-to-be-given-to-all-ethnic-and-rural-groups-beginning-from-monday-feb-21?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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16-Feb-2022 π¬ inboundThe Laos-China Railway will open a ticket office in Vientiane Center shopping complex, providing a more convenient location for passengers to purchase ticketsSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/02/16/laos-china-railway-opens-ticket-office-at-vientiane-center/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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16-Feb-2022 π¬ inboundThe last Irrawaddy dolphin living on a section of the Mekong River between Laos-Cambodia has diedSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/02/16/last-irrawaddy-dolphin-dies-in-waters-between-cambodia-and-laos/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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16-Feb-2022 π vaccineLaos has started its vaccinations for 6-11 year oldsSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/02/16/laos-begins-covid-19-vaccination-of-children-aged-6-11/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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15-Feb-2022 π¬ inboundThe Lao Tourist Guide Association believes that legislation is needed for uniformity across the country, and that tourism specific comments from local stakeholders should be encouraged to create more tourism productsSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/posts/3228404764111001/
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15-Feb-2022 π¬ inboundWe Are Lao has interviewed local DMCs on the slow start to the reopening. Some of their findings were that regulations are unclear, with the private sector finding it difficult to understand them, the LaoSafe project is also causing delays through the documents required, and that FITs should also be targetedSource: wearelao.com/blog/edit-blog-entry-laos-reopening-foreign-tourists-slow-start?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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14-Feb-2022 π¨ββοΈ aviationLao Airlines is increasing its frequency between Vientiane-Savannakhet to 4 times per weekSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/posts/3227816320836512/
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14-Feb-2022 π¬ inboundThe Laos-China Railway is adding more train frequencies from 14 FebSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/posts/3227785784172899/
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14-Feb-2022 π¬ inboundThe Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism has been instructed by the Deputy PM to promote the Lao Thiao Lao campaign more widely and to work with businesses to improve the sector. They were instructed to diversify tourism-related activities and products, and that the countryβs culture, nature, history and community-based tourism activities should be widely advertised. The Ministry will work to improve the quality of the tourism sector, implement infrastructure upgrades in Luang Prabang, Champassak and Vientiane provinces, and boost the Lao National Ecotourism strategySource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/posts/3227528364198641/
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13-Feb-2022 π¬ inboundLaos has received 84 international tourists since its reopening, including from South Korea, Philippines, Netherlands, Thailand and Japan, as well as overseas Laotians. The government has reported that more than 100 South Koreans had booked tours to Laos, but had to cancel due to quarantine measures imposed by the South Korean government. It had hoped to reduce the waiting time for test results to 24 hours, but this was not possibleSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/02/13/laos-receives-84-international-tourists-after-reopening/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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13-Feb-2022 π¬ inboundVientiane Capital hopes to attract 300,000 international visitors by the year-endSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/02/13/laos-receives-84-international-tourists-after-reopening/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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13-Feb-2022 π¬ inboundThe Laos-China Railway has asked for help with various issues from the government, including allowing train tickets, transport payments and other fees to be paid in foreign currency. More than 113,800 pax have travelled on the train since opening, generating $1.89 million USD revenueSource: www.phnompenhpost.com/business/lao-rail-operator-asks-govt-help-resolve-issues?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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12-Feb-2022 π¬ inboundMore than 30 tourism businesses have registered for Travelife training, which will allow tour operators and hotels to understand sustainability and understand online tools availableSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3226144074337070
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12-Feb-2022 π¬ inboundThe Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism reported that it had seen success in 2021 when it comes to the media, providing clear information to the publicSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2022/02/12/covid-19-outbreak-a-stumbling-block-for-laos039-tourism-ministry-says-minister?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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10-Feb-2022 π¬ inboundVang Vieng is welcoming 3,000 domestic visitors per week since it reopened. However, it noted that not many have arrived via the Laos-China Railway. It has not yet recorded any international visitors to the province via the Green Zone Travel PlanSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/02/10/vang-vieng-seeing-3000-domestic-visitors-every-week/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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08-Feb-2022 π¬ inboundCases are on a downward trend in Laos, but the government has urged residents to continue to adhere to prevention measuresSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2022/02/08/covid-19-cases-trending-downward-in-laos-as-government-relaxes-measures?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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08-Feb-2022 π¬ inboundKhammuan province is planning a Sikhottabong Stupa festival which will be larger than previous years from 14-16 Feb. It aims to boost the provinceβs tourismSource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Khammuan_26.php?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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07-Feb-2022 π¬ inboundThe Vat Phou festival in Champassak province will be downsized, to avoid virus spreadSource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Vat_25_22.php?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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07-Feb-2022 π¬ inboundAttapeu International Airport has now been handed over to the Lao Air Force, after being officially shut down in 2017Source: laotiantimes.com/2022/02/07/attapeu-international-airport-handed-over-to-air-force/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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07-Feb-2022 π¬ inboundThe US has lifted many of its sanctions on US visa issuance for Lao citizens. This will allow Lao citizens to travel to the US for tourism or other purposesSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/02/07/us-lifts-visa-sanctions-for-citizens-of-laos/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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05-Feb-2022 π¬ inboundThe Thailand Ministry of Transport will propose a feasibility and design study on a new bridge to link Laos and Thailand, as part of the 3rd phase of the Thai-Chinese high-speed rail project, which would allow both rail and road accessSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thai-laos-bridge-connecting-nongkhai-and-vientiane-under-study-388504?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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05-Feb-2022 π¬ inboundThe Vientiane Times has reported that Laosβ inflation rate of 6.51% is one of the highest in Southeast Asia, only ahead of MyanmarSource: en.vietnamplus.vn/laos-inflation-among-the-highest-in-region/221651.vnp?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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04-Feb-2022 π¬ inboundXieng Khuang will upgrade tourist facilities, in preparation for being included in Phase 2 of the Green Travel Zone scheme for tourists. It will also host an event later in the year to celebrate the Plain of Jars inscription as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Tour operators are being trained in the standards required for the LaoSafe certificateSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3220259324925545/
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04-Feb-2022 π¬ inboundLuang Prabang recorded an 80% drop of international visitors in 2021, seeing less than 7,000, and generating $9.76 million USD. In 2022, it hopes to attract 300,000 international visitors, generating $53.54 million USDSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3220260584925419/
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03-Feb-2022 π¬ inboundThe Thailand Tourism and Sports Ministry is planning to have travel bubble negotiations with short-haul destinations, including Laos, Cambodia and MalaysiaSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2257855/push-for-bubbles-amid-tourism-drive?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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03-Feb-2022 π¬ inboundQuarantine rules have been relaxed. Government representatives, Lao nationals, foreign nationals who are technical experts, students and overseas Lao returning from abroad will now be able to undertake a facility quarantine for 48 hours, whilst awaiting their RT-PCR test result, and can then self-quarantine at home for 7 days. Business travellers and investors who have permission to conduct business in Laos will be permitted to undertake business whilst wearing a wrist monitor for 7 days, after quarantining for 48 hours and receiving a negative test result. Group tours under the Green Travel Zone will also need to wait for 48 hours at an approved hotel before starting tourism activities. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has now been authorised to grant tourist visas for group tourists under the Green Travel Zone plan, so long as tourists create vaccine IDs under the Lao app, Lao KYC. The government has said that Laos is in talks with neighbouring countries for the reopening of bordersSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/02/03/laos-slashes-quarantine-measures-for-new-arrivals-and-returning-residents/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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03-Feb-2022 π¬ inboundOudomxayβs Le Grand Pakbeng hotel has been seeing a constant number of tourists visiting since the opening of the Laos-China Railway. In 2022, it plans to continue to target local visitors, and European ones in 2023Source: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3219473325004145/
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03-Feb-2022 π¬ inboundAll indoor and outdoor sports facilities are permitted to fully open, but nightclubs and karaoke bars must remain closedSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/02/03/laos-slashes-quarantine-measures-for-new-arrivals-and-returning-residents/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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02-Feb-2022 π¬ inboundThe Minister of Health has called for its standard of healthcare to be improved upon, with greater access granted to affordable and efficient careSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2022/02/02/lao-health-minister-calls-for-improved-standards
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02-Feb-2022 π¬ inboundBokeo province is planning to transform Donpoung Island in Huayxai district into a commercial and tourist area to attract visitors. It plans to construct restaurants, an art gallery, hotel, souvenir shops, VIP resort, boat dock for tourists and a market, under a $3 million USD development. It will also offer river-based activities with boat tripsSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3218790545072423/
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01-Feb-2022 π¬ inboundOver 1 million passengers have travelled the Laos-China Railway since its launch in Dec 2021. The line is opening more passenger stations in Laos, with the new one Nateuy Station in Luang Namtha province set to open on 6 FebSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/02/01/over-1-million-passengers-ride-laos-china-railway/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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01-Feb-2022 π¬ inboundXayabouryβs Elephant Festival will be downsized on 20 Feb and limited to one day only, to prevent crowdingSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3218114971806647/
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31-Jan-2022 π¬ inboundLaos is hoping to vaccinate 80% of its population by the year-endSource: www.xinhuanet.com/english/asiapacific/20220131/a66b3456996b4e57acb561ff2d51b743/c.html?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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31-Jan-2022 π vaccineThe government is planning to start vaccinations of children aged 6-11 years old in Phonsaly province under a trial programSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/01/31/laos-to-vaccinate-young-children-against-covid-19/
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28-Jan-2022 π¬ inboundA new cave discovered in Vientiane province will not open to the publicSource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_New19.php?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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26-Jan-2022 π¬ inboundLao Airlines has added more flights, and train tickets are sold out every day, according to the Vientiane Times. The Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism has noted that the top domestic tourism destinations include Vientiane, Luang Prabang and ChampassakSource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Domestic_17_22.php?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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26-Jan-2022 π vaccineChina has donated its 8th batch of vaccines, 1.5 million dosesSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2022/01/26/eighth-batch-of-china-donated-covid-19-vaccines-arrives-in-laos?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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26-Jan-2022 π vaccineThe US has donated 1.7 million Pfizer doses to LaosSource: la.usembassy.gov/the-united-states-provides-1698840-doses-of-the-pfizer-covid-19-vaccine-to-lao-pdr/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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24-Jan-2022 π vaccineThe Lao Ministry of Health has said that it reached its goal to vaccinate 50% of the population by end-2021Source: en.vietnamplus.vn/laos-achieves-vaccination-target-for-2021/221164.vnp?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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24-Jan-2022 π¬ inboundDiethelm Travel Laos is the first tour operator who has earned the Safe Travels Stamp through partnership with the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and IndustrySource: www.traveldailynews.asia/diethelm-travel-laos-first-to-earn-safety-travel-stamp-for?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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21-Jan-2022 π¬ inboundThe Prime Ministerβs Office has asked authorities to look at easing entry restrictions for certain visitors to the country, including business people and employees, to encourage investmentSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/01/21/laos-considers-easing-restrictions-on-entrance-visas/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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21-Jan-2022 π¬ inboundThe Prime Ministerβs Office has asked authorities to look at easing measures for business activities, but not entertainment venuesSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/01/21/laos-considers-easing-restrictions-on-entrance-visas/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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20-Jan-2022 π¬ inboundAttapeu province will reopen to domestic travellers, but only for those fully vaccinatedSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/posts/3209721079312703/
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19-Jan-2022 π¬ inboundThe Tad Yuang waterfall in Champasack province has won an ASEAN sustainable tourism awardSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/01/19/tad-yuang-waterfall-wins-asean-sustainable-tourism-award/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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17-Jan-2022 π¬ inboundThe Ministry of Health has advised residents to avoid mass gatherings and reduce the size of festivities during the festival seasonSource: en.vietnamplus.vn/lao-people-advised-to-avoid-mass-gathering-to-prevent-covid19/220825.vnp?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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17-Jan-2022 π¬ inboundA survey by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce has shown that: β’ 57.14% of those running guesthouses were concerned about the impact of COVID-19 on their business, more than hotels, resorts and restaurants β’ Medium-sized hotels and resorts have been flexible to change, with more Lao people booking these type of hotels β’ Hotels saw a drop of 55.6% in revenue, restaurants 80%Source: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Hospitaliy_10.php?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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15-Jan-2022 π¬ inboundLaos will increase production of its Molacovir drugSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2022/01/15/laos-to-increase-production-of-its-molacovir-covid-19-pill?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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14-Jan-2022 π¬ inboundSaravan province is looking at upgrading tourist attractions and building visitor attractions at tourist destinations such as Tad Lo and Tad Hang waterfalls and Tham Phouphasouk caveSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2022/01/14/saravan-province-spruces-up-as-laos-gets-ready-to-welcome-tourists?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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13-Jan-2022 π vaccineAustralia has donated over 1 million Pfizer and AstraZeneca dosesSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2022/01/13/australia-donates-1005580-doses-of-covid-19-vaccine-to-laos?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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13-Jan-2022 π¬ inboundOudomxay province will add to its electric bus fleet to provide more transportation options for visitors to Xay DistrictSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/01/13/oudomxay-to-increase-electric-bus-fleet-to-serve-tourists-in-xay-district/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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13-Jan-2022 π¬ inboundThe Laos-China Railway will allow advance ticket sales of up to 3 days from Vietiane-Boten, to reduce the number of people queuingSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/01/13/laos-china-railway-allows-three-day-advance-ticket-purchases/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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13-Jan-2022 π¬ inboundThe World Bank forecasts that Laos will see a 4.5% GDP 2022 growthSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/01/13/world-bank-predicts-4-5-percent-economic-growth-for-laos-in-2022/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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12-Jan-2022 π¬ inboundThe Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has noted that it is received many requests from the international community to be added to the Green Travel Zone Plan permitted country list, and has therefore suggested that tourist visas be issued at Lao embassies and consular offices overseas, as well as the e-visa system. It also suggests that Wattay International Airport and the Friendship Bridge to Nong Khai be reopenedSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/01/12/mofa-proposes-easing-visa-restrictions-for-entrance-to-laos/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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11-Jan-2022 π¬ inboundThe first international tourists, a group of Korean schoolchildren, arrived into Laos on 10 Jan under the Green Zone Travel Plan schemeSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/01/11/first-tourists-arrive-in-laos-after-reopening/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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11-Jan-2022 π vaccineThe government is aiming to have vaccinated 87.25% of its population by the year-end. Poland has also donated a further 501,600 AstraZeneca dosesSource: m.phnompenhpost.com/international/laos-health-ministry-targets-8725-covid-shots-end-2022?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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10-Jan-2022 π¬ inboundLuang Prabang is planning to develop more tourist attractions, including outdoor activities on Phou Chomhuad and Phou Hinkong hills. It is undertaking a one-year feasibility study to develop an area of 100-150 hectares, which could see adventure activities such as ziplines, trekking, horse-riding and motocrossSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3202442490040562/
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08-Jan-2022 π vaccineVietnam has donated 1 million vaccine doses to LaosSource: vietnamnet.vn/en/society/vietnam-donates-1-million-covid-19-vaccine-doses-to-laos-807490.html?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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07-Jan-2022 π¬ inboundMore than 2,600 people visited Vangvieng district in Dec, spending 1 billion kip. The district has improved its infrastructure, created new tourism products and is regulating the prices of food and accommodationSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2022/01/07/laos-holiday-hotspots-bustling-again-as-visitors-return-thanks-to-the-laos-china-railway-opening?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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07-Jan-2022 π¬ inboundThe government is hoping that its international reopening will attract 1.9 million domestic tourists and 1 million international tourists in 2022, with the number of accommodation and restaurants to grow by 1.8%Source: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2022/01/07/laos-holiday-hotspots-bustling-again-as-visitors-return-thanks-to-the-laos-china-railway-opening?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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07-Jan-2022 π¬ inboundThe Lao Food Festival will be held in Vientiane Capital from 25-29 Jan, to promote the countryβs food and cultureSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/01/07/lao-food-festival-to-promote-food-and-culture-of-laos-in-vientiane-capital/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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06-Jan-2022 π¬ inboundLaos has detected its first imported case of the Omicron variantSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/01/06/laos-detects-first-case-of-omicron-covid-19-variant/
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06-Jan-2022 π vaccineThe UK has donated 321,760 AstraZeneca dosesSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2022/01/06/uk-provides-laos-with-321760-doses-of-covid-vaccine?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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06-Jan-2022 π¬ inboundThe new airport in Bokeo Province in the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone will soon be completed and is set to open soonSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/01/06/new-international-airport-in-bokeo-province-to-open-in-march/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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05-Jan-2022 π¬ inboundThe Director of Lao Airlinesβ Commercial Department has reported that no international travellers have entered Laos on their flights due to lockdowns in other countries, including ChinaSource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Continuing_02_22.php?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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05-Jan-2022 π¬ inboundThe government has ordered the Ministry of Public Works and Transport to look into the ticketing sales system for the Laos-China Railway, after receiving many complaints of long queuesSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/01/05/government-to-investigate-ticketing-system-along-laos-china-railway/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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05-Jan-2022 π vaccineLaos received a total of 13,682,490 vaccine doses throughout 2021. 4,589,829 have now received their first dose, 62.55% of the population, whilst 3,640,207 are fully vaccinated, 49.61%Source: laotiantimes.com/2022/01/05/laos-received-13-6-million-doses-of-covid-19-vaccines-in-2021/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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04-Jan-2022 π vaccineAustralia has donated more than 900,000 Pfizer doses to LaosSource: www.phnompenhpost.com/international/australian-covid-jabs-land-laos-vientiane?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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02-Jan-2022 π vaccineThe US has donated 799,110 Pfizer doses, with a 2nd shipment of 899,730 doses to arrive in mid-JanSource: laotiantimes.com/2022/01/02/us-donates-799110-pfizer-covid-19-vaccine-doses-to-laos/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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01-Jan-2022 π¬ inboundLaos has cut its VAT rate from 10% to 7% from 1 Jan 2022Source: jclao.com/vat-reduced-to-7-under-amendments-to-lao-tax-laws/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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31-Dec-2021 π¬ inboundLaos has added 14 more countries to its Travel Green Zone Plan, including Brunei, Indonesia, the Philippines, Norway, Switzerland, Finland, Israel, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, New Zealand, Poland, Denmark, and Belgium. This now brings it to a total of 31 countries permitted to enterSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/12/31/laos-updates-list-of-countries-permitted-to-enter-under-travel-green-zone-plan/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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31-Dec-2021 π¬ inboundMore trains will be added on the Laos-China Railway from 30 Dec-3 Jan to cater to demandSource: jclao.com/more-trains-to-run-over-new-year-weekend/?fbclid=IwAR0q-cHndWmqm2JgMD563vREH6xA4apprwPCd9wfF1yK3oOI33zdbPoL9kY
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29-Dec-2021 π¬ inboundPhonsaly province has reported that the earthquakes have created 1.4 billion LAK of damageSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/12/29/phongsaly-reports-over-lak-1-4-billion-in-damage-from-earthquakes/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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28-Dec-2021 π¬ inboundLaos has reported a record number of daily deathsSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/12/28/laos-confirms-record-number-of-covid-19-deaths/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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28-Dec-2021 π¬ inboundVientiane Capital has banned parties and gatherings for the New Year holidaysSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/12/28/covid-curbs-dampen-new-year-celebrations-vientiane-capital/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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28-Dec-2021 π¬ inboundTHAI Smile Airways will start twice weekly flights from Bangkok to Vientiane from FebSource: www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=10158336261180009&set=gm.3193190720965739
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27-Dec-2021 π¬ inboundThe Laos-China Railway is expected to be profitable in 23 yearsβ timeSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/12/27/laos-china-railway-project-to-be-profitable-after-23-years/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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26-Dec-2021 π¬ inboundLaos will reopen cinemas across the countrySource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/12/26/laos-govt-easing-it-up-as-major-cinemas-are-all-set-to-reopen?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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24-Dec-2021 π¬ inboundLaoSafe is being piloted in Vientiane Capital, with progress so far being βvery goodβ. 8 trainers and 8 assessors have been deployed to support businesses to follow the training and assessment process. In Jan and Feb 2022, this will be expanded to Luang Prabang to support the countryβs reopening. A new team of 8 assessors will undergo training in Jan to be able to assess hotels in Vientiane, Luang Prabang and Vang ViengSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/12/24/laosafe-piloted-in-vientiane-capital/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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24-Dec-2021 π¬ inboundThe Laos-China Railway is seeing long queues for tickets, as the ticketing system is limited to in-person, cash transactionsSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/12/24/long-lines-for-railway-tickets-leave-passengers-out-on-a-limb/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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23-Dec-2021 π¬ inboundThe plan to reopen the Laos-Thai border checkpoint in Nong Khai has been postponed, and will need to be re-evaluated on 4 JanSource: www.nst.com.my/world/region/2021/12/757199/thailand-shelves-plans-reopen-international-link-laos
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23-Dec-2021 π vaccinePoland has donated over 500k AstraZeneca dosesSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/12/23/poland-donates-501000-doses-of-covid-vaccine-to-laos?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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23-Dec-2021 π¬ inboundLuang Prabang District, Chomphet and Pak Ou districts in Luang Prabang province will be green zone tourism destinations in the first phase of the reopening planSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/12/23/luang-prabang-to-reopen-three-districts-to-foreign-tourists/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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23-Dec-2021 π¬ inboundLaos will pilot reopening schools from Jan 2022Source: en.vietnamplus.vn/laos-to-pilot-school-reopening-from-january-2022/219661.vnp?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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23-Dec-2021 π¨ββοΈ aviationThe Chinese Embassy in Laos has urged airlines to set reasonable fares, after some agents increased prices for flights between Laos-China considerablySource: jclao.com/chinese-embassy-in-laos-cracks-down-soaring-intl-air-ticket-prices/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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20-Dec-2021 π¨ββοΈ aviationThe Korea Airport Corporation will undertake a feasibility study on upgrading Luang Prabang International Airport. The upgrade would make it a βsmartβ airport, as well as include a cultural centre, meeting room and a hotelSource: jclao.com/korean-company-to-carry-out-feasibility-study-for-upgrade-of-luang-prabang-international-airport/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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20-Dec-2021 π¬ inboundLaos reported 2 earthquakes in its northern province on 20 Dec, with no damage reportedSource: en.vietnamplus.vn/laos-reports-two-earthquakes-in-northern-province/218460.vnp?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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19-Dec-2021 π vaccineAustralia donated 100k AstraZeneca doses to LaosSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/12/19/laos-receives-100000-doses-of-astrazeneca-from-australia/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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18-Dec-2021 π¬ inboundThe Nong Khai border checkpoint with Laos is set to open on 24 Dec, the first land border using the Test & Go schemeSource: thethaiger.com/news/north-east/nong-khai-land-border-opening-to-test-go-scheme-december-24?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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17-Dec-2021 π¬ inboundLaos has announced that it will reopen for tourists on 1 Jan 2022. There will be three phases: 1 Jan-31 Mar 2022, 1 Apr-30 Jun and 1 Jul onwards. Tourists from China, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Japan, France, United Kingdom, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, Italy, United States, Canada, and Australia will initially be permitted to enter, and will be restricted to group tours under authorised tour operators. No updates were given on whether Lao nationals would be able to participate. They will need to be fully vaccinated, have a health insurance of $50,000 USD, download the LaoKYC app and LaoStaySafe app, and have a negative test within 72 hours. On arrival, they will need to take another test and must stay in quarantine until a negative result. Tourists will be permitted into Green Travel Zones, areas with a minimum 70% adult vaccination rate, and Green Travel Trails: β’ Phase 1 will see Vientiane Capital, Luang Prabang Province, and Vang Vieng District in Vientiane Province, and 5 Green Travel Trails: Oudomxay, Xayaboury, Xieng Khouang, Khammouane, and Champasack. Travellers can enter by air to Vientiane and by land across the Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge β’ Phase 2 will see 9 Green Travel Zone provinces: Vientiane Capital, Vientiane Province, Luang Prabang, Oudomxay, Xayaboury, Xieng Khouang, Khammouane, Savannakhet, and Champasack with 4 Green Travel Trails. Travellers can enter via Luang Prabang International Airport and certain land borders with China and Vietnam β’ Tour operators who wish to participate must pre-register in the schemeSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/12/17/laos-announces-travel-conditions-for-2022-reopening/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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16-Dec-2021 π¬ inboundChina expects 1 million passenger trips during the peak Chinese New Year period on the Laos-China railwaySource: www.channelnewsasia.com/asia/china-laos-rail-link-despite-covid-19-expects-1-million-passenger-trips-2384281?cid=cna_flip_070214&utm_source=pocket_mylist
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16-Dec-2021 π¬ inboundThe Lao government forecasts that the economy is set to grow by 4.2% in 2022, driven by the Laos-China RailwaySource: www.phnompenhpost.com/business/lao-economy-forecast-grow-42?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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15-Dec-2021 π¨ββοΈ aviationScoot plans to reopen 5 flights from Singapore to Vientiane in DecSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2021/12/scoot-flights-return-to-laos/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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13-Dec-2021 π vaccineLaos will give booster shots to those in tourism zones in Vientiane Capital, Vientiane Province, Luang Prabang, Oudomxay, and Luang Namtha. Frontliners and at-risk groups will be prioritised, and AstraZeneca doses will be used, regardless of first doseSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/12/13/laos-to-provide-booster-shots-for-populations-in-tourism-zones/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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13-Dec-2021 π¬ inboundThe first 2 international freight trains along the Laos-China Railway arrived last weekSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/12/13/kunming-sees-renewed-interest-in-train-travel-following-laos-china-railway-opening/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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12-Dec-2021 π¬ inboundLuang Prabangβs National Museum has reopenedSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3181281468823331/
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11-Dec-2021 π¬ inboundLaos reported record new cases on 11 Dec of 1,898Source: laotiantimes.com/2021/12/11/laos-sees-yet-another-record-day-of-covid-19-cases/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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10-Dec-2021 π¬ inboundThe government has approved a plan to reopen βgreen tourism areasβ in Laos to international travellers from Jan 2022. Domestic and international travellers who want to visit these zones would need to be fully vaccinated. International travellers would need to fill out an online form and have an RT-PCR test within 72 hours of entering Laos, and take another test on arrival. Whilst they await their results, they must quarantine for 24 hours, and are then permitted to visit a green zone. Children aged 5-18 years old must take a test, but do not need to be vaccinated. The green tourism areas will include Vientiane, Vangvieng and Luang Prabang, and travellers must stay in LaoSafe hotels. Green tourism areas must have a 70-80% fully vaccinated population and 90-95% of service providers must be vaccinated. It aims for 1 million international visitors in 2022, and will focus on China and South KoreaSource: jclao.com/lao-govt-approves-green-tourism-plan-with-a-view-to-reopening-specific-areas-to-tourists-next-month/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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10-Dec-2021 π¬ inboundThe Lao Thiao Lao scheme aims to attract 1.9 million Laos visitors in 2022Source: jclao.com/lao-govt-approves-green-tourism-plan-with-a-view-to-reopening-specific-areas-to-tourists-next-month/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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09-Dec-2021 π¬ inboundMore than 5,512 tickets were sold for the Laos-China Railway from 4 Dec, with an βoverwhelming number of passengers on the first dayβ. It is providing domestic train services twice daily, with round trips from Vientiane capital-Boten, and Vientiane Captal-Luang PrabangSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/12/09/five-thousand-passengers-board-laos-china-railway-in-first-five-days/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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09-Dec-2021 π¬ inboundChinese tech firms are looking into digital cooperation between China and Laos after the launch of the Laos-China Railway, with the launch of innovations such as the WeChat mini-program, βTraveling China-Laos Railwayβ, which aims to create a digital transactional platform, as well as include resources on cultural and tourist spots along the routeSource: www.globaltimes.cn/page/202112/1241101.shtml?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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09-Dec-2021 π¨ββοΈ aviationLao Airlines and the Northern Bus Station in Vientiane do not plan to change their ticket prices or services to compete with the new Laos-China Railway line. However, Lao Airlines has noted a drop in demand currently due to the opening, and if this demand slumped then they would cut routesSource: jclao.com/lao-airlines-bus-station-have-no-plans-to-compete-with-railway/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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06-Dec-2021 π vaccineMalaysia has donated 283,400 doses to LaosSource: www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2021/12/06/covid-19-malaysia-donates-over-800000-astrazeneca-vaccine-doses-to-bangladesh-laos?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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03-Dec-2021 π¬ inboundThe Laos-China Railway has launched on 3 Dec, a 414km track which took 5 years to build. Trains will travel up to 160kmh, and passenger services are expected to start on 4 Dec for those fully vaccinatedSource: www.channelnewsasia.com/asia/laos-opens-china-built-railway-line-game-changer-belt-road-initiative-2355001?cid=cna_flip_070214&utm_source=pocket_mylist
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01-Dec-2021 π¬ inboundLaos has admitted that child labour in the tourism industry remains an issue, with underage workers found in entertainment venues, hotels, restaurants and guesthouses. The Director-General of the Tourism Management Department has said that more coordination is needed to address the issueSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/12/01/child-labor-still-prevalent-in-laos-tourism-industry/
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01-Dec-2021 π¬ inboundLaosβ community cases are continuing to increaseSource: en.vietnamplus.vn/laoss-covid19-cases-continue-to-rise-within-community/216410.vnp?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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01-Dec-2021 π¬ inboundLaos has banned travellers from 9 countries impacted by the Omicron variant: South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Lesotho, Eswatini, the Seychelles, Malawi and MozambiqueSource: kpl.gov.la/En/Detail.aspx?id=63514
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30-Nov-2021 π vaccineLaos is planning to vaccinate children aged 6-11 years old from Jan 2022Source: en.vietnamplus.vn/laos-plans-to-vaccinate-children-aged-611-by-early-2022/216348.vnp?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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30-Nov-2021 π vaccineCambodia has donated 500,000 vaccine doses to LaosSource: www.phnompenhpost.com/national/kingdom-gives-13m-500000-jabs-laos?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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27-Nov-2021 π¬ inboundLaos has detected its highest number of daily cases on 26 Nov, at 1,510Source: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/11/27/new-covid-cases-hit-another-high-at-1510-in-laos?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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27-Nov-2021 π¨ββοΈ aviationLao Airlines will operate weekly flights to Bangkok from Jan 2022Source: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3170592989892179/
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27-Nov-2021 π¨ββοΈ aviationLao Skyway is reopening its Vientiane-Pakse flightsSource: www.facebook.com/laoskyway/photos/a.1449945491906394/3261949040706021/
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25-Nov-2021 π¬ inboundLaos has authorised the Sputnik Light vaccine for emergency useSource: asianews.network/laos-becomes-20th-country-to-authorise-one-shot-sputnik-light-vaccine/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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25-Nov-2021 π¬ inboundKhammuan province is preparing to receive visitors, with tourist attractions reopening. Hotels and guesthouses are also planning to reopen, but must be assessed first. The province is upgrading Tham Xang and Tham Xieng as new attractionsSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/11/25/lao-province-khammuan-prepares-to-welcome-tourists?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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25-Nov-2021 π¬ inboundThe Xieng Khouan Buddha Park will reopen on 2 DecSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3168791553405656/
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24-Nov-2021 π¬ inboundCOVID treatment in Luang Prabang will no longer be given for freeSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/11/24/covid-19-treatment-in-luang-prabang-no-longer-free/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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23-Nov-2021 π vaccine64.5% of adults in Laos are now vaccinated, and 42% of the countryβs population have been fully vaccinatedSource: en.vietnamplus.vn/nearly-65-percent-of-lao-adults-vaccinated-against-covid19/215976.vnp?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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21-Nov-2021 π vaccineChina has shipped 1.9 million more Sinopharm vaccines to LaosSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/11/21/china-provides-new-shipment-of-sinopharm-covid-19-vaccines-to-laos?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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20-Nov-2021 π¬ inboundLaos has reported record deaths on 20 NovSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/11/20/laos-records-seven-deaths-from-covid-19/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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20-Nov-2021 π¬ inboundThe Laos-China Railway is due to be officially opened on 3 Dec, with 2 passenger trains per day initially, start date to be confirmed. However, foreigners will not be permitted to ride the train yet. There will be 2 cargo trains to China dailySource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/11/20/laos-china-railway-inauguration-set-for-dec-3-but-passenger-transport-date-not-yet-decided?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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19-Nov-2021 π vaccineJapan plans to donate vaccines to Laos under the COVAX schemeSource: english.kyodonews.net/news/2021/11/d7f8e6e26d48-japan-to-provide-37-mil-covid-vaccines-to-9-nations-via-covax.html?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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18-Nov-2021 π¬ inboundLaos has seen a record number of new daily cases, at 1,401 on 18 NovSource: en.vietnamplus.vn/laos-sees-record-daily-number-of-covid19-infections/215756.vnp?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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18-Nov-2021 π¬ inboundLaos is considering a new reopening plan, Lao Travel Green Zone. This would designate Vientiane Capital, Vang Vieng, and Luang Prabang as βgreen zonesβ. A green zone must have 70-80% of its population vaccinated, and 90-95% of its service providers vaccinated. International arrivals would need to be vaccinated, and have a negative test within 72 hours of departure. Tourists would be taken to hotels via designated vehicles certified with the LaoSafe scheme, and undertake an RT-PCR test on arrival, self-isolating at their home until they receive the results. Once the test comes back negative, they will be able to explore the Green Zone. A βLao Green Trailβ would also be launched, which would allow visitors to travel outside of the Green Zones, but they would need to use services of LaoSafe service providers and stay at all-inclusive accommodation. It also proposes launching a new contact tracing app, LaoStaySafe, to monitor tourists during their stay, and provide informationSource: wearelao.com/sites/default/files/Lao%20Green%20Travel%20Zone%20Action%20Plan%20-%20v17%2020211025%20clean_211026_190741.pdf?fbclid=IwAR31oXkVCNh2-EIaR19rYPfOI4YdWdqO54X1bTuxeJictaR9TQ0RXkyj3Jo
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18-Nov-2021 π¨ββοΈ aviationLao Skyway has reopened its flights from Vientiane to Luang PrabangSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/posts/3163864400565038/
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17-Nov-2021 π¨ββοΈ aviationLao Airlines will restart their flights between Vientiane and Luang Prabang from 19 NovSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3163074070644071/
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17-Nov-2021 π¬ inboundChampasak province will reopen for vaccinated domestic travellersSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3163125273972284/
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17-Nov-2021 π¬ inboundSavannakhet has reopened to vaccinated domestic travellersSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/posts/3163134380638040/
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16-Nov-2021 π¬ inboundLaos will launch a new safety program for the tourism and hospitality sector, LaoSafe. It will be piloted in Vientiane Capital, and the standards been developed in conjunction with the Ministry of Health (MoH), the Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism (MICT), Skills for Tourism Project and business associations. The goal of the scheme is to βto improve quality, protect staff and visitors alike and to inspire confidence in tourists considering a trip to the Lao PDRβ. Businesses which qualify will be listed under a special directory, and given marketing collateral. It will be expanded to other destinations from early 2022Source: laotiantimes.com/2021/11/16/laos-to-move-forward-with-laosafe-health-and-hygiene-certification-program/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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16-Nov-2021 π¬ inboundThe Tourism Ministry is still discussing how long quarantine should be for fully vaccinated international touristsSource: www.rfa.org/english/news/laos/plans-11162021190352.html?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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16-Nov-2021 π¬ inboundLuang Namtha will still require a negative COVID test for visitors to the province 72 hours before travelSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3162641280687350/
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14-Nov-2021 π¬ inboundLaos has extended some of its safety measures, but will permit face to face classes at schools. Travel between provinces will also be permitted without an authorisation required, with no quarantine required. Entertainment venues remain closed, MICE activities with more than 50 pax not permittedSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/11/14/schools-reopen-under-new-covid-restrictions-in-laos/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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13-Nov-2021 π vaccineThe PM has ordered the start of vaccinations for children aged 12 and above, to speed up school reopeningsSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/11/13/laos-pm-orders-vaccinations-for-children-in-the-12-17-age-group?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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12-Nov-2021 π¬ inboundVangvieng is preparing for the return of tourists, and are planning to restore and upgrade tourist attractions and accommodation, as well as create new tourism products. They expect visitors to increase, as there will be a railway station on the Laos-China line. Oudomxay province is also developing tourism projects, including homestays, restaurants and other tourism products near to Tham Chom-Ong. They will also build a night market and visitor facilities at the waterfallsSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/11/12/vangvieng-oudomxay-regions-prepare-for-return-of-tourists?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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12-Nov-2021 π¬ inboundLaos has authorised home recovery for COVID patients who meet certain criteriaSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/11/12/laos-authorizes-home-recovery-for-covid-19-patients/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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12-Nov-2021 π¬ inboundLaos is preparing to leave its Least Developed Country status by 2026Source: en.vietnamplus.vn/laos-prepares-to-exit-least-developed-country-status-in-2026/215433.vnp?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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11-Nov-2021 π¨ββοΈ aviationLao Airlines will reopen flights on 19 NovSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3158132724471539/
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09-Nov-2021 π¬ inboundThe Health Ministry will give booster vaccines to medical staff from Jan 2022Source: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/11/09/medics-to-get-covid-booster-jabs-next-year?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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08-Nov-2021 π¬ inboundA new app, Whatβs up Laos, has been launched to help boost tourism recovery. It is backed by the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LNCCI) and Skills for Tourism Project (LAO/029), and aims to bring together deals, events and special offers for domestic and international travellersSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/11/08/whats-up-laos-mobile-app-provides-a-boost-to-tourism-in-laos-2/
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05-Nov-2021 π¬ inboundEconomists are calling for the Lao government to take advantage of the China-Laos railwayβs benefits. It is aiming for GDP growth in 2022 of 4%Source: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/11/05/capitalise-on-china-laos-railway-benefits-lao-govt-urged?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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05-Nov-2021 π¬ inbound496,000 are unemployed in Laos, with a rate which has increased by 21.8% in 2021Source: laotiantimes.com/2021/11/05/nearly-500000-unemployed-in-laos-amid-covid-19-pandemic/
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05-Nov-2021 π¬ inboundTourist guides are preparing to welcome tourists once more, the Board of Directors of the Guide Association have saidSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3153472151604263/
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04-Nov-2021 π¬ inboundLaos has seen a 2nd consecutive day of record COVID daily cases, hitting 1,170Source: laotiantimes.com/2021/11/04/laos-sees-second-day-of-record-covid-19-numbers/
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02-Nov-2021 π¬ inboundThe government hopes that the Lao Thiao Lao program will generate 1.8 million domestic visitors in 2022, and that the country can welcome more than 1 million international visitors. In H1 2020, 615,000 domestic tourists made trips, +3.9% YoYSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/11/02/laos-allows-fully-vaccinated-foreign-visitors-to-enter-to-revive-tourism?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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02-Nov-2021 π¬ inboundThe PM has ordered the country prepare for a full-scale reopening, stating that a comprehensive strategy must be developed. The Deputy PM reported that the hospitality industry had declined by 28.6%. It also plans to encourage investment into large-scale projects, including tourist attractions and hotelsSource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Prepare_214.php
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02-Nov-2021 π¬ inboundThe government is aiming to vaccinate at least 70% of its population in 2021, rather than 50%. To date, 38.38% are fully vaccinated, 44.78% are partially vaccinatedSource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Prepare_214.php
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31-Oct-2021 π¬ inboundLaos has extended its restrictions until 14 Nov. Entertainment venues will remain closed across the country, as will tourist attractions. Schools should remain closed except for those with special conditions, and MICE with more than 50 pax attending is not permitted. Restaurants can continue with dine-in services, and retail shops and supermarkets can remain open. Travel between Vientiane and other provinces is permitted to resume for those who are fully vaccinatedSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/10/31/laos-extends-covid-restriction-measures-with-view-to-reopening-schools/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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30-Oct-2021 π¬ inboundLuang Prabang has eased some of its lockdown measures, including checkpoints across the city, and permitting residents to travel between districts and provinces if they are fully vaccinatedSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/10/30/luang-prabang-relaxes-lockdown-measures/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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30-Oct-2021 π¬ inboundThe Deputy Minister for Information, Culture, and Tourism has said that it will prioritise tourists from Vietnam, China and ASEAN for the reopening of the bordersSource: Chinaβs Greenland pursues APAC expansion with new regional hub in Singapore | TTG Asia
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27-Oct-2021 π¬ inboundLaos has not yet set a date for reopening to vaccinated international tourists, saying that βvaccination is the most important thing for our country at presentβ. If the country can vaccinate more than 50% of the population and the pandemic subsides, it could reopen to low risk COVID countriesSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/10/27/laos-yet-to-set-date-for-border-reopening-media?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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27-Oct-2021 π¬ inboundThe Tourism Ministry has requested permission to allow vaccinated South Koreans to enter Vientiane on luxury golf tour packages. This plan would see Lao Airlines, AirAsia, Tβway Air and Jeju Air operate charter flights to Incheon airport, and travellers could undertake a 9-day golfing package. Tourists would be limited to one hotel and one restaurant, and they would be transferred between the hotel and golf course by private busSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/10/27/laos-considers-reopening-of-borders-to-group-tours/
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27-Oct-2021 π¬ inboundThe UNDP has launched the Tourism Recovery Roadmap in Lao PDR on 21 Oct, which plans a tourism recovery until 2025. A key part is building up the Lao Thiao Lao program, negotiate regional travel bubbles and a health program for the tourism industrySource: laotiantimes.com/2021/10/27/laos-considers-reopening-of-borders-to-group-tours/
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27-Oct-2021 π¬ inboundLaosβ Irrawaddy dolphins are on the point of extinction, with just 2 believed to be remaining in the Mekong RiverSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3146562502295228/
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25-Oct-2021 π vaccineLaos has launched a new vaccination certificate with a QR code which will allow for digital verificationSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/10/25/laos-launches-covid-19-vaccination-certificate-with-qr-code/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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21-Oct-2021 π¬ inboundThe Boat Racing festival in Vientiane has been cancelled, as has the Fire Boat FestivalSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/10/21/boat-racing-festival-cancelled-in-vientiane-capital/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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21-Oct-2021 π¬ inboundInthira Group has signed an agreement with the Lao Development Bank for financing to develop sustainable tourism products. It will used to build visitor facilities in Vientiane province, the Rock Viewpoint at Phouphaman Mountain and ziplining at Khammouane provinceSource: www.wearelao.com/blog/edit-blog-entry-inthira-group-signs-sustainable-tourism-deal-lao-development-bank?fbclid=IwAR0Sy0xalZWd-RsH7yx2Qjmb0fNogdRcAzNYZ9GxicYbjRuk34CYnwcIOlU
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18-Oct-2021 π¨ββοΈ aviationThe construction of the new Ton Pheung International Airport in Bokeo is expected to be finished in a few monthsSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3139632752988203/
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15-Oct-2021 π vaccineChina plans to send 2 million more Sinopharm doses to Laos in 2021Source: laotiantimes.com/2021/10/15/china-will-donate-millions-more-doses-of-sinopharm-covid-19-vaccines-to-laos/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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15-Oct-2021 π¬ inboundThe first passenger train to travel on the Laos-China railway has arrived into LaosSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/10/15/historic-moment-as-first-passenger-train-along-laos-china-railway-arrives-in-laos/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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15-Oct-2021 π¬ inboundLaos has extended its COVID restrictions until 30 OctSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/10/15/laos-covid-taskforce-extends-restrictions-for-another-15-days/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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14-Oct-2021 π¬ inboundLaos is looking at using hotels as temporary field hospitals, to deal with the growing number of cases which are causing hospitals to fill upSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/10/14/hotels-may-replace-field-hospitals-for-covid-19-patients-in-laos/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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11-Oct-2021 π¬ inboundThe Laos-China railway will open on 2 Dec, but will focus on freight traffic first before being extended to transporting touristsSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/10/11/laos-china-railway-to-open-for-freight-transport-before-allowing-passengers/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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07-Oct-2021 π¬ inboundLuang Prabang City has entered into a full lockdown until 21 Oct, with residents banned from leaving their homes except for medical emergencies or essential tasksSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/10/07/luang-prabang-city-goes-into-full-lockdown/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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05-Oct-2021 π¨ββοΈ aviationConstruction of the Huaphan airport is expected to resume after the pandemic subsides. It is currently 92.34% completeSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3128887050729440/
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04-Oct-2021 π¬ inboundLaos is hoping to issue its own digital currency in conjunction with a Japanese company, SoramitsuSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/10/04/laos-hopes-to-develop-own-digital-currency/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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30-Sep-2021 π¬ inboundA rice stack museum will be built in Xayaboury province, expected to be completed in 2023Source: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3125215544429924/
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24-Sep-2021 π¬ inboundNakarath Travel forecasts that international MICE and group travel will take 2-3 months after any announcement on reopening is madeSource: wearelao.com/blog/edit-blog-entry-lao-mice-need-notice-they-return?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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24-Sep-2021 π¬ inboundLaos has authorised the use of rapid antigen tests, which previously had been bannedSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/09/24/laos-authorizes-use-of-rapid-covid-tests/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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23-Sep-2021 π¬ inboundThe Asian Development Bank (ADB) has revised down its 2021 GDP forecast for Laos to 2.3%, instead of the previous 4%. It noted that the planned opening of the Laos-China railway in Dec should boost economic recovery, but increasing development in tourism and agriculture is essential to advance the economy overallSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/09/23/covid-19-delays-economic-recovery-in-laos-adb
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23-Sep-2021 π vaccineRussia has donated 30,000 Sputnik Light vaccines to LaosSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/09/23/russia-donates-30000-doses-of-sputnik-light-vaccine-to-laos/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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23-Sep-2021 π¬ inbound90% of cases recorded on 23 Sep have been linked to a garment factory outbreak in VientianeSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/09/23/covid-19-cases-reach-more-than-20000-in-laos-following-garment-factory-outbreaks/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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21-Sep-2021 π¬ inboundXieng Khouang province has been locked down from 20 Sep until 30 Sep, with travel into and out of the province bannedSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/09/21/xieng-khouang-province-goes-into-lockdown/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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21-Sep-2021 π¬ inboundVientiane changed its decision on the closure of supermarkets, small retailers and minimarts, permitting them to stay open from 21-30 Sep as normalSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/09/21/vientiane-authorities-reverse-decision-on-supermarket-closures/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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21-Sep-2021 π vaccineLaos is set to receive another 2.4 million doses from China and AustraliaSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/09/21/laos-to-receive-over-two-million-doses-of-covid-19-vaccine-from-china-and-australia?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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20-Sep-2021 π¬ inboundThe Asian Development Bank (ADB) has found that of 360 tourism businesses surveyed, 50% closed temporarily and 70% of workers were furloughed. It called for an immediate response to aid tourism businesses, including reopening in a responsible manner, and providing financial aidSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/09/20/agriculture-tourism-key-to-laos-prosperity-adb?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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19-Sep-2021 π¬ inboundThe Deputy Mayor of Vientiane Capital has confirmed a lockdown in Vientiane from 19 Sep. Measures include all government and private offices should work from home until 30 Sep, residents are only permitted to leave their homes for essential trips, and individuals and vehicles are not permitted to travel to other provinces from Vientiane. Those in provinces outside of Vientiane with community transmission are not permitted to travel to the capital, either. All gatherings are banned, and shopping malls, night markets, tourist sites, resorts, guesthouses and restaurants must closeSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/09/19/deputy-mayor-confirms-new-lockdown-measures-for-vientiane-capital/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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19-Sep-2021 π¨ββοΈ aviationLao Skyway has suspended all flights until further noticeSource: www.facebook.com/laoskyway/photos/a.1449945491906394/3207161076184818/
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19-Sep-2021 π¨ββοΈ aviationLao Airlines has suspended all flights until further noticeSource: www.facebook.com/LaoAirlines/photos/a.606162339446126/4547149055347415/
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18-Sep-2021 π vaccineBooster doses of vaccine will not be permitted to be administered until the eligible population is fully vaccinatedSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/09/18/laos-to-vaccinate-pregnant-women-17-year-olds/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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18-Sep-2021 π¬ inboundThe Ministry of Health hopes that Laos could start to vaccinate more than 50% of its population by the end of 2021, and reopen the country, focusing on the opening of the Laos-China Railway, scheduled for 2 DecSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/09/18/laos-to-vaccinate-pregnant-women-17-year-olds/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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18-Sep-2021 π¬ inboundLaos has reported 467 cases, a record number, with 265 cases of community transmission in Vientiane CapitalSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/09/18/laos-records-record-number-of-cases-over-200-in-vientiane-capital/
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17-Sep-2021 π¬ inboundOudomxay province is planning to develop the Phu Ya Kha mountain and viewpoint, Ket stone forest, a stone bridge, Hin Pa Ya Ngu Yai rock and Pouphieng viewpoints into tourist attractionsSource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Oudomxay182.php?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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17-Sep-2021 π¬ inboundVientiane has restricted interprovincial travel for those entering the capital from high-risk provinces, including Champasack, Savannakhet, Khammouane, and Bokeo. Travellers entering who are permitted will need to quarantine for 2 weeks. Residents of the capital will also be banned from visiting provinces under Level 2 or 3 outbreak status unless authorisedSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/09/17/vientiane-capital-bans-travel-to-provinces-with-covid-19-outbreaks/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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17-Sep-2021 π vaccineLaos has approved vaccinations for those aged 17 years and above who are preparing for entrance exams or travel for educationSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/09/17/laos-to-vaccinate-final-year-secondary-school-students/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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16-Sep-2021 π¬ inboundLaos has extended its prevention measures for another 15 days until 30 Sep, with entertainment venues and tourist sites in areas with community transmission to remain closed. All schools across the country are to remain closedSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/09/16/laos-extends-covid-restriction-measures-for-further-15-days/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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16-Sep-2021 π¬ inboundTourist and visitor visas will continue to not be issued for international travellersSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/09/16/laos-extends-covid-restriction-measures-for-further-15-days/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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15-Sep-2021 π¬ inboundThere has been a local backlash against a Chinese real estate agent plan to build a 100m tall Buddha statue in the That Luang Marsh Special Economic Zone (SEZ)Source: thediplomat.com/2021/09/giant-buddha-statue-plan-rankles-residents-of-laos-capital-report/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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15-Sep-2021 π¬ inboundLaos will offer multiple entry visas to people of Lao descent who live abroadSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/09/15/laos-offers-multi-entry-visas-to-overseas-lao-population/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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14-Sep-2021 π¬ inboundMany provinces have now reached Level 2 in Laosβ Alert Levels for community transmission, the second highest level, with some close to Level 3Source: laotiantimes.com/2021/09/14/some-provinces-to-reach-level-three-transmission-as-outbreaks-worsen-in-laos/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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12-Sep-2021 π¨ββοΈ aviationFlights from Vientiane to Savannakhet will resume by Lao Airlines from 17 SepSource: www.facebook.com/LaoAirlines/photos/a.422306681165027/4524187150976939/
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11-Sep-2021 π¬ inboundA new spread of community cases in Luang Prabang is causing alarmSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/09/11/new-outbreak-in-luang-prabang-puts-province-on-high-alert/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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08-Sep-2021 π¬ inboundVang Vieng will receive $8 million USD from a new project funded by the Asian Development Bank to improve its infrastructure. A new road will be built to the Kaeng Nyui Waterfall, which will allow shops and restaurants to be built for tourists to visitSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/09/08/vang-vieng-to-receive-new-roads-infrastructure-upgrade/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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06-Sep-2021 π¬ inboundChinese developers are set to build a giant Buddha statue at That Luang Marsh Specific Economic Zone as a new cultural attractionSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/09/06/chinese-developers-to-construct-100m-buddha-image-at-that-luang-marsh/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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03-Sep-2021 π vaccine1.8 million people are now fully vaccinatedSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/09/03/laos-steps-closer-to-meeting-target-of-vaccinating-50-of-population
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03-Sep-2021 π¬ inboundLaos is seeing a higher number of community cases than imported onesSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/09/03/laos-sees-higher-numbers-of-community-spread-than-local-cases/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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02-Sep-2021 π¬ inboundLaos has tightened its lockdown restriction from 31 Aug-15 Sep. New measures include MICE is limited to less than 20 pax, tourist sites in areas of community spread must close, and entertainment sites must also remain closedSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/09/02/prime-ministers-office-steps-up-national-covid-restrictions-for-15-days/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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01-Sep-2021 π¬ inboundThe Laos-China Railway is set to be a low-carbon railwaySource: laotiantimes.com/2021/09/01/laos-china-railway-to-be-green-low-carbon-railway/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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31-Aug-2021 π¬ inboundVientiane Capital has added new restrictions from 31 Aug until further notice. Residents in red zones are not permitted to enter other provinces, and vice versa. All gatherings are banned throughout the city and road traffic is banned from 10pm-5am. All schools in the capital are to closeSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/08/31/mayor-of-vientiane-orders-curfew-increased-covid-restrictions/
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31-Aug-2021 π¬ inboundThe EuroCham Laos held a roundtable meeting for the Hospitality and Tourism Sector. One of the initiatives that will be soon launched is a tourism conference in Luang PrabangSource: www.facebook.com/EuroChamLaos/posts/2275711205898499
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27-Aug-2021 π¬ inboundLaos is seeing a high number of locally transmitted cases, particularly in Savannakhet and Bokeo provincesSource: en.vietnamplus.vn/laos-rolls-out-measures-to-curb-covid19-spread-in-community/207096.vnp?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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24-Aug-2021 π vaccineLaos is looking to accelerate its vaccination program, focusing on Bokeo, Savannakhet and Champasak provinces. These provinces have had high infection rates because of their borders with neighbouring countries and returning migrant workers. 12.46% of the eligible population are now fully vaccinatedSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/08/24/laos-speeds-up-covid-19-vaccination-programme-to-stem-rising-virus-cases-in-country
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23-Aug-2021 π¬ inboundVisitors to Khammouane province have tripled during the Lao Thiao Lao campaign, with visits to nature adventure parks, zip lining and campingSource: wearelao.com/blog/edit-blog-entry-lao-thiao-lao-tackles-%E2%80%9C-khammouane-loop%E2%80%9D?fbclid=IwAR0T47bAUFZ75skAMmZIKpv465AQCfPs-CYIVsWMONRYYju0QlO8wFkOjuM
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22-Aug-2021 π vaccineThe government is in discussions with a Chinese pharmaceutical company to produce a vaccine in LaosSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/08/22/lao-govt-chinese-firm-mull-production-of-covid-19-vaccine?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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20-Aug-2021 π¬ inboundThe World Bank forecasts that Laosβ GDP in 2021 will grow by 3.6%, down from Marβs 4% growth forecast. It noted that the falling value of the Kip is causing inflation, leading to worries and food and basic goods accessSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/08/20/laos-economy-recovers-falters-again-under-covid-19/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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19-Aug-2021 π¬ inboundLaos has extended its lockdown measures until 2 Sep, after more community transmission. Pubs, bars, entertainment centres and contact sports remain banned, and entry into red zones is still banned except for authorised personsSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/08/19/covid-restrictions-extended-as-laos-records-284-new-cases-of-covid-19/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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19-Aug-2021 π¬ inboundSchools will reopen across the country from 1 Sep. Teachers are required to be fully vaccinatedSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/08/19/laos-to-reopen-schools-next-month/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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16-Aug-2021 π¬ inboundXanghai village in Pak-ou districtβs village chief has said that when tourism dried up, βpractically all of the businesses here died and now people have nothing to doβSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3090501297901349/
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13-Aug-2021 π¬ inboundAttapeu provincial government has said that it would lockdown the entire province after the first case of community infection was detectedSource: en.vietnamplus.vn/lao-provinces-impose-lockdown-to-curb-spread-of-covid19/206326.vnp?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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12-Aug-2021 π¬ inboundThe government has said that more donated vaccines from China will allow it to speed up its vaccination rollout, meeting its target of vaccinating 50% of the population by year-end. As of 8 Aug, 1.38 million had received their first dose and 1.23 million were fully vaccinatedSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/08/12/lao-govt-to-accelerate-immunisation-programme-as-more-vaccine-arrives?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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12-Aug-2021 π¬ inboundThe Laos-China Railway is set to officially open on 2 Dec, Laos National DaySource: laotiantimes.com/2021/08/12/laos-china-railway-scheduled-to-open-in-december-this-year/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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11-Aug-2021 π¬ inboundThe Ministry of Health will buy more vaccines in 2022, as the free vaccines via COVAX will end in 2021Source: laotiantimes.com/2021/08/11/laos-must-purchase-more-covid-19-vaccines-next-year/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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10-Aug-2021 π¬ inboundLaos and Vietnam have held talks to strengthen cooperation, including in tourismSource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Laos_Vietnam_154.php?fbclid=IwAR32avYzrc-JEDgK1uURSt8_lp1Cu5DY1E2iDVTx1x5cS4cqtcdBV2KR5ao
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10-Aug-2021 π¬ inboundLaos now has 100 state quarantine centres across the country and 48 quarantine hotelsSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/08/10/one-hundred-state-quarantine-centers-now-in-use-across-laos/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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08-Aug-2021 π vaccineChina has sent another 1 million Sinopharm doses to LaosSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/08/08/china-provides-a-further-million-doses-of-covid-19-vaccine-to-laos/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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06-Aug-2021 π vaccine616,820 doses of AstraZeneca donated by Japan arrived into Laos on 5 AugSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/08/06/japanese-shipment-of-covid-19-astrazeneca-vaccine-arrives-in-laos
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06-Aug-2021 π¬ inboundLaos has increased its state quarantine period from 14 to 28 days, following community transmission from those leaving 14-day quarantine. People entering Laos must undergo 14 days at a state level quarantine centre, then 14 days at a district level quarantine centreSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/08/06/laos-increases-state-quarantine-requirement-to-28-days/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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06-Aug-2021 π¬ inbound245 Vientiane businesses have been severely impacted by COVID-19, with those providing tourism services the most impacted, the Vientiane Capital Planning and Investment Department has reportedSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/08/06/over-200-businesses-in-vientiane-affected-by-second-wave-of-covid-19/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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04-Aug-2021 π¬ inboundBokeo province has detected local transmission, particularly in the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone (SEZ). The zone went under lockdown from 30 JulSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/08/04/authorities-announce-outbreak-of-covid-19-in-bokeo/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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03-Aug-2021 π¬ inboundLaosβ restrictions have been extended until 18 Aug, due to the large number of returning migrant workers and the unstable condition of its neighboursSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/08/03/lockdown-extended-as-laos-records-250-new-cases-of-covid-19/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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03-Aug-2021 π¬ inboundThe administration of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine in Champassak province will be suspended for those aged 20-60 years old after significant side effects were reportedSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/08/03/authorities-suspend-johnson-johnson-vaccinations-in-champasack/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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31-Jul-2021 π¬ inboundVientiane has put certain villages under lockdown after community transmission was detectedSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/07/31/vientianes-sangthong-district-locks-down-amid-covid-19-outbreak/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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29-Jul-2021 π vaccineThe Johnson & Johnson vaccine will start to be rolled out from 2 Aug. To date, 1,059,960 people have received one vaccine dose, and 769,975 are fully vaccinatedSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/07/29/laos-plans-johnson--johnson-vaccine-rollout-for-aug-2
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28-Jul-2021 π¬ inboundSavannakhet has built a 10,000 bed quarantine centre to be able to accommodate migrant workers returning from ThailandSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/07/28/savannakhet-prepares-quarantine-center-to-accommodate-10000-people/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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28-Jul-2021 π¬ inboundLaos reported a record case high of 280, with the vast majority being importedSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/07/28/laos-sees-record-number-of-covid-19-cases-and-sixth-death/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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28-Jul-2021 π vaccineThe UK will donate 415,000 AstraZeneca doses to LaosSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/07/28/laos-to-get-14-million-doses-of-covid-vaccine-in-coming-weeks?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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28-Jul-2021 π¬ inboundThe Ministry of Tourism has been instructed to start preparing for the reopening of tourism under the βnew normalβ, as well as the opening of the Laos-China Railway in DecSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/07/28/laos-prepares-for-reopening-of-tourism-under-new-normal-conditions/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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26-Jul-2021 π vaccineChina will deliver one million more vaccines of SinopharmSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/07/26/china-to-provide-1-million-more-doses-of-sinopharm-to-laos/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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24-Jul-2021 π¬ inboundThe first completed station of the China-Laos railway in Phonhong made its debut showingSource: www.globaltimes.cn/page/202107/1229504.shtml?fbclid=IwAR0viY8oG4lr4w37_Fv96KCCZe6UOPFd9cufg6s-2cBJSVu0BgCUoFZnzZk#.YPzpQlMvmho.facebook
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23-Jul-2021 π vaccineCanada will donate vaccines to LaosSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/07/23/canada-to-donate-17-7-million-doses-of-astrazeneca-to-low-and-middle-income-countries/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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22-Jul-2021 π¬ inboundChampassak province will build a new park, Dok Champa, as part of the development of the Vat Phou World Heritage SiteSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3071240036494142/
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21-Jul-2021 π vaccineUNICEF has said that it will support Laosβ vaccination program and that it was optimistic that its target of vaccinating 50% of the population was achievable in 2021Source: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/07/21/unicef-commits-vaccination-support-laos-vaccination-target-likely-achievable
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21-Jul-2021 π¬ inboundThe Lao PM has said that the lockdown must be extended due to the number of migrant workers returning from Thailand, with the risk of the Delta variant spreadingSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/07/21/prime-minister-phankham-viphavanh-addresses-nation-on-covid-19/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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20-Jul-2021 π¬ inboundLaos has extended its lockdown measures for another 15 days, until 3 Aug. However, indoor and outdoors sports facilities in Vientiane and provinces with no outbreak may reopen, and higher education institutions in Vientiane may also reopenSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/07/20/laos-covid-19-restrictions-extended-but-some-rules-lifted-to-ease-economic-impacts
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20-Jul-2021 π¬ inboundLaos reported record cases of 170, all importedSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/07/20/laos-confirms-record-number-of-covid-19-cases-as-migrant-workers-return/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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17-Jul-2021 π vaccineLaos has received more than 1 million Johnson & Johnson vaccines donated from the USASource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/07/17/more-than-one-million-doses-of-johnson--johnson-vaccine-donated-by-us-arrive-in-laos?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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15-Jul-2021 π vaccineLaos has started to rollout the second doses of Pfizer and Sinopharm vaccines in Vientiane CapitalSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/07/15/laos-begins-provision-of-second-doses-of-pfizer-and-sinopharm-vaccines/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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15-Jul-2021 π vaccineLaos is confident of being able to vaccinate 50% of its population in 2021Source: en.vietnamplus.vn/lao-government-confident-of-vaccinating-half-of-population-this-year/204735.vnp?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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15-Jul-2021 π¨ββοΈ aviationLao Airlines is expanding its domestic flight scheduleSource: www.facebook.com/LaoAirlines/photos/a.606162339446126/4344997358895920/
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14-Jul-2021 π¬ inboundLao will develop the worldβs largest hybrid floating solar energy projectSource: en.vietnamplus.vn/laos-to-build-worlds-largest-hybrid-floating-solar-power-plant/204676.vnp?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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14-Jul-2021 π¨ββοΈ aviationLao Airlines has seen around 60-70% of its seats being booked on its limited routes, so is planning to expand its domestic routes, as well as its international charter flights to Korea and CambodiaSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3065301467087999
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13-Jul-2021 π¬ inboundChampasack province will develop the Dong Hua Sao National Bio-Diversity Conservation Area and the Xe Pian National Bio-Diversity Conservation Area into ecotourism areas. They are part of the National Green Growth StrategySource: laotiantimes.com/2021/07/13/laos-to-develop-sustainable-tourism-sites-in-champasack/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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12-Jul-2021 π vaccineLaos has vaccinated 1,015,262 people with one dose, around 14% of its populationSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/07/12/laos-vaccinates-over-1-million-people/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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12-Jul-2021 π¬ inboundThe Luang Prabang train station on the Laos-China Railway is set to be completed in AugSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/07/12/luang-prabang-station-along-laos-china-railway-to-be-completed-next-month/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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10-Jul-2021 π¬ inbound91 of 93 new cases reported in Laos on 10 Jul were imported ones, with Laos workers returning from ThailandSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/07/10/covid-cases-climb-in-champasack-and-savannakhet-following-influx-of-returnees/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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07-Jul-2021 π vaccineRussia is looking at sending Laos some Sputnik V vaccines free of chargeSource: tass.com/politics/1311309?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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07-Jul-2021 π¬ inboundChampasack province has been locked down until 20 Jul, with entertainment businesses closed and gatherings not permitted largely. Shopping malls and retails shops can remain open, as well as MICE in green zonesSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/07/07/champasack-province-locks-down-after-new-community-spread-of-covid-19/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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07-Jul-2021 π¨ββοΈ aviationLao Airlines has increased its frequency between Vientiane and Luang Prabang to 3 times per weekSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3059853874299425/
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06-Jul-2021 π¬ inboundLaos has reported an increase in imported cases, with Delta and Kappa variants detectedSource: www.xinhuanet.com/english/asiapacific/2021-07/06/c_1310045605.htm?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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05-Jul-2021 π¬ inboundA new contact tracing app, LaoKYC, has been launched which residents will need to install. It will be used to check in to locations, register for vaccination and register for COVID-19 testsSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/07/05/laos-covid-taskforce-unveils-new-contact-tracing-qr-code/?utm_source=pocket_mylist
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04-Jul-2021 π¬ inboundLaos will extend its lockdown measures until 19 Jul as the situation in neighbouring countries is still risky. Bars and entertainment centres will remain closed, as will indoor sports centres and all schools in Vientiane Capital. Entry in red zones is banned. Shopping malls can remain open, as can restaurants with dine-in services in green zones. MICE can be held in non-red zone areas. Transport in provinces with no cases is permitted with no quarantine, whilst those fully vaccinated who travel to/ from Vientiane Capital will be exempted from quarantine. Schools in provinces with no community transmission may openSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/07/04/laos-extends-lockdown-measures-until-19-july/
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02-Jul-2021 π¬ inboundLaos has detected the Kappa variant of the virusSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/07/02/laos-detects-kappa-covid-19-variant-as-32-new-cases-recorded/
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01-Jul-2021 π¬ inboundThe government has approved a new expressway to link Bokeo with Boten, effectively linking China with Thailand via LaosSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/07/01/bokeo-boten-expressway-project-to-link-china-and-thailand-through-laos/
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29-Jun-2021 π vaccineLaos is set to receive 132,000 AstraZeneca doses in Jul, as will an unknown quantity of Johnson & Johnson vaccines via COVAX. It has so far vaccinated 11.6% of its population with one dose and 6.7% are fully vaccinatedSource: borneobulletin.com.bn/laos-to-receive-new-shipment-of-covid-19-vaccine-in-july/
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25-Jun-2021 π¨ββοΈ aviationLao Airlines has re-announced that it will reopen 6 domestic air routes from 25 Jun, after previously announcing and then cancelling its plans to do so. It will be running a limited scheduleSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/06/25/lao-airlines-uncancels-domestic-flights-in-third-announcement/
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24-Jun-2021 π vaccineLaos is aiming to vaccinate 80% of the population in Vientiane by the year-endSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/06/24/lao-capital-to-vaccinate-80-per-cent-of-residents-against-covid-19-this-year
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24-Jun-2021 π vaccineLaos is set to receive the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, as well as more of the AstraZenecaSource: www.facebook.com/groups/145058063500689/posts/397842714888888
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23-Jun-2021 π¬ inboundLaos will conduct its first test on the railway between China and Laos in AugSource: www.bangkokpost.com/world/2137203/laos-to-test-train-line-to-china-in-august
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23-Jun-2021 π vaccine5 companies have said that they will buy 320,000 doses of vaccine for the governmentSource: vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Five_120.php?fbclid=IwAR0d5DtzsFTwfIPUhQmDqpgUjvSt4kg8QxaCsaPpcoUVN5Zn8RjMB0ayOvw
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22-Jun-2021 π vaccineLaosβ elderly started to receive the Sinopharm vaccine from 21 Jun. Over 700,000 have received their first dose, whilst 400,000 have received their second doseSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/06/22/elderly-start-getting-sinopharm-vaccination
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22-Jun-2021 π¨ββοΈ aviationLao Skyway will resume certain domestic routes on 25 Jun. Elderly people, children, pregnant women and mothers of newborn babies who are not vaccinated will require special permission to travel from the COVID-19 taskforceSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/06/22/lao-skyway-to-resume-flights-as-covid-19-cases-dwindle/
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21-Jun-2021 π¬ inboundLaos reported just 1 case on 21 Jun, an imported oneSource: en.vietnamplus.vn/covid19-laos-sees-no-new-case-in-community-indonesia-tightens-travel-restriction/203386.vnp
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21-Jun-2021 π¬ inboundLuang Prabang has reopened its historical and natural tourism sites, night markets and swimming pools. However, bars and entertainment venues must remain closed, and gatherings are not permittedSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/06/21/covid-19-lockdown-measures-eased-in-luang-prabang/
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19-Jun-2021 π¬ inboundLaos has extended its lockdown measures until 4 Jul. Measures include pubs, spas and entertainment venues to remain closed, indoor sports centres to be closed, schools in Vientiane Capital to remain close and all factories in red zones to be closed. Entry to red zones is forbidden. Gatherings should not be held. Events which are held in non-red zones are permitted up to 50 attendees. Land and air transport between Vientiane Capital and other provinces without 14-day quarantine remains limited to those who are fully vaccinated. For provinces with no spread of COVID-19, schools and tourist sites are permitted to resumeSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/06/19/laos-extends-lockdown-measures-for-further-15-days/
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18-Jun-2021 π¬ inboundAll those who enter Laos, even fully vaccinated travellers, must undergo a 14-day quarantineSource: en.vietnamplus.vn/laos-has-yet-to-apply-vaccine-passport-health-ministry/203276.vnp
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18-Jun-2021 π¬ inboundThe Tad Fah Waterfall ecotourism project in Khounkham District is now 30% completeSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/06/18/tad-fah-waterfall-eco-tourism-project-30-percent-complete/
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18-Jun-2021 π¬ inboundThe Nong Khang Airport in Houaphan Province is now 92% complete, but has been delayed thanks to the pandemicSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/06/18/new-houaphan-airport-92-complete/
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18-Jun-2021 π¬ inboundA new cave has been discovered in Khammuan province. It is planned to develop it as a tourist attractionSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3045325509085595/
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18-Jun-2021 π¬ inboundThe area around Nam Ngum 1 dam in Vientiane is being upgraded to make it more tourist-friendlySource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3045326765752136
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16-Jun-2021 π vaccineRound 2 of vaccines has started, with 100,620 Pfizer doses and 500,000 Sinopharm doses being administered. As of 12 Jun, 712.,793 had received their first dose and 385,921 were fully vaccinated. The government is aiming to vaccinate 50% of the population by the year-endSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/06/16/laos-begins-second-round-of-covid-19-vaccination
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15-Jun-2021 π¬ inboundCompulsory quarantine will be implemented for those who have had close contact with COVID-19 patientsSource: en.vietnamplus.vn/laos-applies-compulsory-quarantine-to-people-having-close-contact-with-covid19-patients/203084.vnp
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15-Jun-2021 π vaccineLaos received 500,000 Sinopharm vaccine doses on 14 JunSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/06/15/laos-receives-500000-doses-of-sinopharm-vaccine-from-china
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14-Jun-2021 π¬ inboundLaosβ cases have now exceeded over 2,000Source: laotiantimes.com/2021/06/14/covid-19-cases-rise-in-laos-as-country-exceeds-2000-total-cases/
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13-Jun-2021 π¬ inboundThe government has approved the Vientiane-Pakse Expressway Project, which will cut travel time just 7 hours from the current 10Source: laotiantimes.com/2021/06/13/lao-government-approves-pakse-expressway-route-selection/?fbclid=IwAR1P6SeSmjOWgqYmRmOzhgAGPTCAQiXP6h4CJfRTaS1mL8Uxdxv8SsbIGTE
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11-Jun-2021 π vaccineLaos is speeding up its vaccination process, encouraging residents to get their second dose on timeSource: en.vietnamplus.vn/laos-philippines-move-to-accelerate-covid19-vaccination/202918.vnp
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10-Jun-2021 π¬ inboundThe Lao Minister of Labour and Social Welfare has said that 114,000 Lao workers are unemployedSource: en.vietnamplus.vn/pandemic-forces-nearly-114000-lao-labourers-to-be-unemployed/202855.vnp
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10-Jun-2021 π¨ββοΈ aviationLao Airlines has postponed is plan to restart domestic flights, due to the new travel restriction requiring passengers between Vientiane and other provinces to be fully vaccinatedSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/06/10/lao-airlines-bus-companies-delay-resumption-of-services
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08-Jun-2021 π vaccineThe first dose of Pfizer will start to be rolled out from 16 Jun in VientianeSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/06/08/mass-rollout-of-pfizer-jab-in-laos-to-start-on-june-16-with-target-groups
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08-Jun-2021 π¬ inboundNo COVID-19 cases were detected outside of Vientiane on 8 JunSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/06/08/no-covid-19-cases-detected-outside-vientiane-capital/
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04-Jun-2021 π vaccineLaos has banned private companies from buying COVID-19 with the intent to sell them, but will allow them to procure vaccines for their own useSource: en.vietnamplus.vn/laos-bans-covid19-vaccines-for-commercial-purchases/202580.vnp
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04-Jun-2021 π¬ inboundThe lockdown in Laos will be extended until 19 Jun, but travel between Vientiane and other provinces may resume for pax who have been fully vaccinated, without a 14-day quarantineSource: en.vietnamplus.vn/laos-extends-covid19-lockdown-till-june-19/202595.vnp
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04-Jun-2021 π¬ inboundThe lockdown measures in Laos will be further eased. Restrictions in place until 19 Jun include the closure of all pubs, entertainment venues and tourist sites and schools in Vientiane. For those in red zones, residents will only be able to leave their homes for essential needs, and entry into red and yellow zones will not be permitted. Green zones will allow restaurants to operate dine-in services with social distancing measurers imposed, and schools in provinces with no transmission can reopen. Meetings and conferences can be held in non-red zonesSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/06/04/laos-eases-toughest-lockdown-measures-red-zones-remain/
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03-Jun-2021 π vaccineLaos received a shipment of 100,620 doses of the Pfizer vaccine on 31 May via COVAX, which will be used to vaccinate those above 60 years old, as well as with medical conditionsSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/06/03/pfizer-vaccine-will-be-used-to-protect-most-vulnerable-in-laos
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02-Jun-2021 π vaccineChina has confirmed that it will send 500,000 doses of Sinopharm to LaosSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/06/02/china-promises-500000-more-doses-of-sinopharm-covid-19-vaccine/
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01-Jun-2021 π¬ inbound: Laos has released its 2020 statistics on tourism. Some key results include: β’ 2020 international arrivals were 886,447, -81.5% YoY β’ 2020 revenue from tourism fell to $213.4 million USD, -77.2% YoY β’ 2020 domestic tourists were 1,581,100, -32.7% YoY β’ 2020 outbound Lao travellers was 706,904, -73.7% YoY β’ 2021 forecast for international tourist arrivals to Laos is 1,016,040 in 2021Source: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3032660343685445/
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31-May-2021 π¬ inboundLaos recorded zero local cases on 31 MaySource: en.vietnamplus.vn/laos-records-zero-community-infection-for-first-day-in-more-than-one-month/202325.vnp
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28-May-2021 π¬ inboundAuthorities have allowed outdoor exercise in public parks during the lockdownSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/05/28/authorities-authorize-outdoor-exercise-during-lockdown/
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28-May-2021 π¬ inboundA report has shown that 84,418 people are unemployed and suffering severe financial problems due to the pandemic, with the majority of them in VientianeSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3030277040590442/
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28-May-2021 π¬ inboundLaos is looking to speed up its vaccination process and has a current stock of 1.53 million doses, enough for 10.3% of the population. The next shipment is expected in Jun/ JulSource: www.facebook.com/groups/145058063500689/permalink/384233006249859/
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27-May-2021 π¬ inboundCommunity transmission is easing in Laos, with just 12 cases reported on 27 May. There remain 29 red zones across 6 districts in Vientiane CapitalSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/05/27/community-spread-slows-as-laos-confirms-12-new-cases-of-covid-19/
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26-May-2021 π vaccineLaos is negotiating with Sputnik V for additional doses. It plans to vaccinate 50% of its population in 2021. As of 24 May, 136,217 people are fully vaccinated and 614,566 have received one doseSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/05/26/laos-to-get-additional-doses-of-russias-sputnik-v-vaccine
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25-May-2021 π¬ inboundChampasack, Savannakhet, and Khammouane provinces have eased their lockdown measures, with more freedom for residentsSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/05/25/champasack-savannakhet-and-khammouane-provinces-ease-covid-19-restrictions/
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25-May-2021 π¬ inboundXaysomboun Province welcomed 10,000 visitors from Jan-Sep 2020, generating almost $160,000 USD in revenue. Local authorities are permitting operators to look at developing tourist sites in the provinceSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/05/25/xaysomboun-sees-over-10000-tourists-in-2020/
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22-May-2021 π¬ inboundVientiane has seen an increase in the number of unlinked locally transmitted casesSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/05/22/vientiane-capital-sees-rise-in-untraceable-covid-19-infections/
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20-May-2021 π¬ inboundDistricts in Laos will be divided into colour coded zones. Red zones will be for those areas with 1 or more cases where contact tracing is not possible, yellow zones where contact tracing is possible, and green zones for COVID-free areas. Red zones will see tourist attractions, casinos and beauty shops closed, and gatherings are not permitted. Residents may only leave their homes for essential purposes. For yellow and green zones, events may be held with a maximum of 10 people, and restaurants will be open for takeawaySource: laotiantimes.com/2021/05/20/laos-divides-districts-into-red-zones-to-prevent-spread-of-covid-19/
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20-May-2021 π¬ inboundThe lockdown in Laos has been extended for 15 more days until 4 Jun, with more relaxed zoning restrictions. Interprovincial travel will be permitted once more between provinces without community outbreaks, and schools may open in areas which have had no outbreaks for 14 daysSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/05/20/laos-extends-lockdown-as-covid-19-spread-continues/
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20-May-2021 π vaccineThe supplies for first doses of vaccines has now run out. It had delivered 542,132 first doses and 92,582 are fully vaccinatedSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/05/20/first-dose-vaccines-run-out-as-laos-battles-covid-19/
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18-May-2021 π vaccineThe Lao PM has urged more procurement of vaccinesSource: en.vietnamplus.vn/laos-seeking-more-covid19-vaccine-sources/201659.vnp
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18-May-2021 π¬ inboundThe Korean Airports Corporation will study the expansion of Luang Prabang International Airport, and once complete, will form a consortium worth $89 million USD to build itSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/05/18/korean-company-to-study-expansion-of-luang-prabang-airport/
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14-May-2021 π¬ inboundLuang Prabang has imposed a 14-day quarantine when domestic travellers enter the province, as well as imposed testing regulationsSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3018929148391898
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14-May-2021 π¬ inboundThe Crowne Plaza Vientiane and BIM Group have donated medical equipment and supplies worth 250 million LAK to the National Operations CentreSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/05/14/crowne-plaza-and-bim-group-provide-lak-250-million-to-covid-taskforce/?fbclid=IwAR0Xvwt4CjQG_eGpS5wXJdDIazxYr__jAZ2TmHKDywRFg3CRTSJaHi2UEWg
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13-May-2021 π vaccineAustralia will provide Laos with a grant for $11.8 million USD for the rollout of vaccines in Laos. This will provide around 1 million doses, as well as training in how to safely administer the vaccineSource: www.phnompenhpost.com/international/australia-laos-agree-large-scale-covid-vaccination-support
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10-May-2021 π¬ inboundThe Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism (MICT) has approved plans for tourism recovery, including extra funds, a tourism business development plan and multiple ways to promote domestic tourism once the outbreak is under controlSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3015622718722541/
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10-May-2021 π¬ inboundThe Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism (MICT) will propose that Lao should welcome international tourists from those countries which have no outbreaksSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3015622718722541/
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09-May-2021 π¬ inboundLaos has extended its lockdown measures for another 15 days, until 20 May as cases remain highSource: www.phnompenhpost.com/international/extended-lockdown-essential-amid-ongoing-challenges-lao-pm
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09-May-2021 π¬ inboundLaos has confirmed its first death due to COVID-19Source: laotiantimes.com/2021/05/09/laos-confirms-first-covid-19-death/
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07-May-2021 π outboundTaiwan has moved Laos from its medium-risk countries list to the highest levelSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2021/05/taiwan-lifts-lao-risk-alert/
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07-May-2021 π¬ inboundThe Lao Elephant Initiative has been providing funding and staff to establish a Feed the Elephants Project, to help care for elephantsSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3013359405615539
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06-May-2021 π vaccineAs of 29 Apr, 68,500 people are fully vaccinated, whilst 192,454 have received the first doseSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/05/06/number-of-new-covid-19-infections-remain-high-says-laos-govt
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06-May-2021 π¬ inboundThe Laos government is looking to assist poor families affected by COVID-19Source: laotiantimes.com/2021/05/06/laos-considers-policy-to-assist-poor-families-during-covid-19-crisis/
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06-May-2021 π¬ inboundUnemployment has increased to 25%Source: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3012661272352019/
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03-May-2021 π¬ inbound90% of tourism businesses have been forced to close, the Minister of Tourism has said. The remaining 10% remain open for long-term guests. The government estimates that 637 hotels, 2,283 resorts and guesthouses, 539 tour companies, 36 travel agencies, 809 tourist attractions and 2,000 tour guides were impacted last yearSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3010544282563718
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01-May-2021 π¬ inboundLaos reported a decline in the number of new cases on 1 May, to 64. All provinces are under lockdown until 5 MaySource: en.vietnamplus.vn/laos-cambodia-see-lesser-new-covid19-cases/200895.vnp
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29-Apr-2021 π¬ inboundThe ADB has forecast Laosβ 2021 GDP to grow by 4%, and by 4.5% in 2022Source: laotiantimes.com/2021/04/29/asian-development-bank-predicts-positive-economic-growth-for-laos/
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26-Apr-2021 π¬ inboundChina will provide Laos with another batch of Sinopharm vaccines. Laos has now completed 102,310 first dose vaccinationsSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/04/26/china-to-provide-laos-with-new-batch-of-covid-19-vaccine/
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25-Apr-2021 π¬ inboundLuang Prabang has gone into lockdown from 25 Apr-5 May, along with 9 other provinces, including Vientiane Capital, Vientiane Province, Xieng Khouang, Xayaboury, Bolikhamxay, Bokeo, Phonsaly, Huaphan and SavannakhetSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/04/25/luang-prabang-lockdown-measures-in-detail/
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24-Apr-2021 π¬ inboundLaos confirmed 88 new cases on 24 Apr, the highest yet. The majority are in Vientiane CapitalSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/04/24/laos-confirms-88-new-cases-of-covid-19-as-population-rushes-to-vaccinate/
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24-Apr-2021 π vaccineLaos has launched an online registration for the vaccine, with it being prioritised for those at-risk, above 60 years old and medical personnelSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/04/24/authorities-open-online-registration-for-covid-19-vaccinations-in-laos/
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23-Apr-2021 π¬ inbound7 provinces in Laos are now in lockdown: Vientiane Capital, Vientiane Province, Xieng Khouang, Xayaboury, Bolikhamxay, Bokeo, and Phongsaly. The strain circulating in Laos is the more infectious UK strainSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/04/23/seven-provinces-in-laos-now-under-lockdown/
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23-Apr-2021 π¬ inboundTravel from Vientiane Capital to other provinces is banned, and the bus stations are temporarily closed. Gatherings must not exceed 20 peopleSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/04/23/vientiane-authorities-issue-extended-guidelines-for-covid-19-prevention-and-control/
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23-Apr-2021 π¬ inboundLuang Prabang has now enforced a curfew, and will close all bars and sports facilities until further notice. Weddings and gatherings are banned. Restaurants and shops must close by 9pm, with no traffic after 10pmSource: www.facebook.com/groups/145058063500689/permalink/366927954647031
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22-Apr-2021 π¬ inboundAll schools in Vientiane Capital will closeSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/04/22/vientiane-closes-schools-following-covid-19-outbreak/
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22-Apr-2021 π¨ββοΈ aviationLao Skyway has suspended all flights until 5 MaySource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3002156086735871/
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21-Apr-2021 π¬ inboundThe PM has ordered a 14-day lockdown for Vientiane Capital from 22 Apr-5 May, after reporting over 20 new cases. Residents are banned for leaving home except for essential tasks, and entertainment venues will be closed. Hotels and resorts may operate, but only provide accommodation and food servicesSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/04/21/vientiane-enters-lockdown-following-covid-19-outbreak/
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21-Apr-2021 π vaccineThe government has said that it will accelerate the vaccination of 22% of its population by 2021, but more would be better. As of 12 Apr, more than 140,000 people had received the first dose, whilst 28,000 had received the 2nd doseSource: www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/laos-to-expand-covid-19-vaccination-to-all-citizens
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21-Apr-2021 π¨ββοΈ aviationLao Airlines has suspended all flights until 5 MaySource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3001952083422938/
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20-Apr-2021 π¬ inboundSaravan province has closed its tourist sites and entertainment venues, as well as mass gatherings and weddingsSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/04/20/covid-19-laos039-saravan-province-closes-tourist-attractions-entertainment-venues-due-to-pandemic
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20-Apr-2021 π vaccineThe PM has instructed the vaccination to be offered to all citizensSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/04/20/laos-pm-orders-vaccination-programme-accelerated-expanded
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20-Apr-2021 π¬ inboundLuang Prabang railway station is now 65% completeSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/3000762703541876/
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14-Apr-2021 π¬ inboundThe authorities announced that Vientiane will not be going into lockdown following a locally transmitted case, but residents are being asked not to travel and all events and gatherings where social distancing cannot be maintained will be cancelled. All entertainment venues such as pubs will also be closed until the end of AprSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/04/14/vientiane-avoids-full-lockdown-new-covid-prevention-measures-apply/
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14-Apr-2021 π¬ inboundLaos has confirmed one new case of COVID-19, a woman who had been working in a Thai restaurant and returned to the countrySource: laotiantimes.com/2021/04/14/laos-reiterates-new-covid-measures-confirms-new-case/
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13-Apr-2021 π¬ inboundThe government has warned Laos residents to be vigilant against the virus and to get themselves vaccinated if possibleSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/04/13/laos-govt-says-be-vigilant-get-vaccinated-people-warned-amid-fears-of-new-covid-19-outbreak
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13-Apr-2021 π¨ββοΈ aviationLao Airlines is planning to add more flights over Pi Mai Lao, from 13-18 AprSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2995662374051909/
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07-Apr-2021 π¬ inboundLaos is in mourning for the death of the former President Choummaly Sayasoneβs wife and son, as well as 6 others, who died after a yacht capsized on SundaySource: laotiantimes.com/2021/04/07/nation-in-mourning-as-former-presidents-wife-and-son-perish-in-boat-tragedy/
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07-Apr-2021 π¬ inboundA Chinese casino owner is looking at developing tourism facilities in Laosβ Golden Triangle SEZ. Some locals are concerned about the implications for agriculture, as well as the potential of transforming the Plain of Jars into a tourist attraction for those taking a break from a casinoSource: www.rfa.org/english/news/laos/zhao-04072021142653.html
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06-Apr-2021 π¬ inboundThe Tourism Minister has said that Thailand and Singapore are discussing a travel bubble, and they are also looking at countries such as Vietnam and Laos. They hope to start travel bubbles in OctSource: www.traveldailymedia.com/thailand-travel-bubbles-asean-countries/
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05-Apr-2021 π¬ inboundThe Academy Training Hotel and Restaurant officially opened its restaurant on 1 Apr in Vang Vieng. It also runs a small hotel with 6 guest bedrooms, giving students the chance to get real-world experienceSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/04/05/the-academy-training-hotel-and-restaurant-opens-its-doors-in-vang-vieng/
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05-Apr-2021 π¬ inboundThe Laos-China railway is now 80% complete, with final sections scheduled to be completed by MaySource: laotiantimes.com/2021/04/05/laos-china-railway-track-80-percent-complete/
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02-Apr-2021 π vaccineLaos has received 800,000 more doses of Sinopharm vaccine, donations from ChinaSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/04/02/2nd-batch-of-china-donated-covid-19-vaccines-handed-over-to-laos
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01-Apr-2021 π vaccineLaos has launched an online registration for the vaccineSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/04/01/laos-launches-online-registration-for-covid-19-vaccinations/
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31-Mar-2021 π¬ inboundLuang Prabang have changed their festivities planned for the New Year in light of the governmentβs orders. The official holiday will be cut to 14-16 Apr only, but outdoor celebrations and entertainment will be bannedSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/03/31/luang-prabang-authorities-revise-lao-new-year-schedule/
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29-Mar-2021 π¬ inboundThe Southern Vientiane Railway Station should be complete by the end of 2021Source: laotiantimes.com/2021/03/29/southern-vientiane-railway-station-construction-schedule-completed-this-year/
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26-Mar-2021 π¬ inboundLaos has instructed the public to celebrate the New Year (Bunpimay) without public gatherings, with all public events banned from 14-16 Apr. Cultural performances are also banned, as is water throwingSource: en.vietnamplus.vn/laos-bans-public-events-over-traditional-new-year/198148.vnp
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26-Mar-2021 π¬ inboundThe government, Lao Handicrafts Association and cultural heritage stakeholders have met to protect Laosβ traditional designsSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/03/26/lao-government-and-handicraft-stakeholders-pledge-to-protect-traditional-designs-of-laos/?fbclid=IwAR36LZIWvuBlRQpqgHqKNsWHBVtxvNrdWNXIKfeqP2dnPK9XXmUdn5VoaB4
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24-Mar-2021 π¬ inboundThe government will address 7 urgent issues over the next 5 years as part of its National Socio-Economic Development Plan for 2021-25. The government wants to attract more investment, focus on human resource development and reduce disparities between urban and rural areasSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/03/24/laos-government-to-address-seven-urgent-issues-to-spur-development
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24-Mar-2021 π¬ inboundLuang Prabang have released a schedule for Bunpimay celebrations, including an elephant procession, traditional market fair and a grand processionSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/03/24/luang-prabang-authorities-release-new-year-events-schedule/
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22-Mar-2021 π¬ inboundThe fee structure for tests has been updated, with tourists and international residents paying more for voluntary tests, whilst civil servants, students and emergency medical cases would pay lessSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/03/22/laos-authorities-adjust-covid-19-test-fees/
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22-Mar-2021 π¬ inboundLaos has elected a new President, Thongloun Sisoulith, and new Prime Minister, Dr. Phankham ViphavanhSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/03/22/laos-elects-new-president-and-prime-minister/
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20-Mar-2021 π vaccineLaos received its first shipment of 132,000 doses via COVAX of the AstraZeneca vaccineSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/03/20/covid-19-vaccines-shipped-by-covax-facility-arrive-in-laos/
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16-Mar-2021 π vaccineLaos has vaccinated over 40,000 people so far with the first doseSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/03/16/laos-vaccinates-over-40000-people-against-covid-19/
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16-Mar-2021 π¬ inboundThe Four Thousand Islands New Area in Champasak province is hoping to build a town with resorts and leisure facilities which will attract 2.3 million visitors annually by 2030 and 15 million by 2050Source: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/03/16/laos039-four-thousand-islands-new-area-aiming-to-draw-15-million-visitors-per-year-by-2050
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16-Mar-2021 π¬ inboundLuang Namtha is reopening its tourism sites under the Lao Thiao Lao campaign. The province plans to partners with a local company to build adventure activities, a resort, guesthouse and restaurant at Tad Namdee waterfall. It welcomed 147,000 visitors in 2020, -80% YoYSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2974216266196520
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16-Mar-2021 π¨ββοΈ aviationAttapeu Airport is still closed to passenger flights, 5 years after it was closedSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2974218006196346/
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13-Mar-2021 π vaccineLaos is still vaccinating at-risk health workers, those with close contact to COVID patients, those working at quarantine centres and at international borders, and expects to finish its first batch by 20 MarSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/03/13/laos-begins-to-administer-first-covid-19-vaccines-to-key-groups
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11-Mar-2021 π¬ inbound36% of SMEs have permanently closed or are on the brink of collapse, according to the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry. It noted that around 25% of the countryβs 100,000 SMEs work in tourismSource: www.rfa.org/english/news/laos/businesses-03112021181115.html
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11-Mar-2021 π¬ inboundKhammuan province have seen some tourists from the Lao Thiao Lao program, although spending does not equal that generated by international touristsSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2970446433240170
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09-Mar-2021 π¬ inbound36 endangered species have been identified in the Nakai-Nam Theun National Park in LaosSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/03/09/globally-threatened-wildlife-species-recorded-in-laos-national-park
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09-Mar-2021 π¬ inboundThe Sangthong-Xanakham road is 50% completeSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2968909833393830
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05-Mar-2021 π vaccine150,000 medical frontliners in Laos will be vaccinated in Mar/Apr using Sinopharm vaccines. People at-risk between 18-60 years old will also be given priority. They expect 20% of Laosβ population to be vaccinated in 2021, 50% by 2022 and 70% in 2023Source: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/03/05/lao-medical-workers-to-be-inoculated-against-covid-19-with-chinese-vaccines
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05-Mar-2021 π¬ inbound63,000 people are estimated to be unemployed in Laos, including migrant workers who returned to the countrySource: laotiantimes.com/2021/03/05/63000-unemployed-in-laos-during-covid-19-pandemic/
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05-Mar-2021 π¬ inboundThe Lao Hotel and Restaurant Association has requested that the government lower its VAT from 10% to 5% to aid recovery. The Ministry of Tourism is preparing a new plan for the continued rollout of the Lao Thiao Lao domestic tourism scheme, asking for 3 billion kip to support advertising, as well as make the campaign a national effort to encourage more public and private participationSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2965817710369709
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05-Mar-2021 π vaccineThe Sputnik V vaccine has now been registeredSource: tass.com/economy/1262855
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04-Mar-2021 π¬ inboundUNESCO has reportedly requested that a planned hydropower dam near to Luang Prabang be inspected, in case it puts the UNESCO site at riskSource: thediplomat.com/2021/03/unesco-calls-for-heritage-assessment-for-lao-hydropower-dam/
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04-Mar-2021 π¬ inboundLaos may graduate from Least Developed Country status by 2026Source: laotiantimes.com/2021/03/04/laos-to-graduate-from-least-developed-country-status-by-2026/
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03-Mar-2021 π¬ inboundBorikhamxay province will hold a food festival and convoy to promote its tourism attractions, as part of the Lao Thiao Lao campaign. The provinceβs target is to attract 100,000 visitors in 2021. Last year, 100,000 people visited, a drop of 50% vs 2019Source: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2964258137192333
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02-Mar-2021 π¬ inboundNam Et Phou Louey National Park has signed on 154 households in 4 new villages to provide ecotourism activities. These households will be trained on wildlife conservation, as well as different services such as handicrafts, porters, housekeeping, homestays, etcSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2963511207267026
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01-Mar-2021 π¬ inboundThe Phasad Heuanhin (stone house) in Xayphouthong district is becoming more popular with tourists. As part of the Lao Thiao Lao campaign, it organised a convoy to explore different areas of interest in the province from 27-28 Feb. In 2020, 144,000 people visited the province, -82% YoYSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2963048900646590
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26-Feb-2021 π¬ inboundLaos will now require all travellers entering the country to purchase COVID-19 insurance, as well as wear a health tracking device. The insurance will cost approx. $100 USD for 14 daysSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/02/26/covid-19-insurance-now-a-requirement-for-entry-to-laos/?fbclid=IwAR13FX-gw-ZJ4p6ztYG68YeyJwq2B09D6Abe-oZufq8DeqJiPB-M7cPg3AI
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25-Feb-2021 π¬ inboundThe World Bank approved a $57 million USD project, Lao Landscapes and Livelihoods Project, which will focus on sustainable forest management and nature-based tourismSource: moderndiplomacy.eu/2021/02/25/lao-pdr-new-project-to-protect-landscapes-and-enhance-livelihoods/
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25-Feb-2021 π¬ inboundLuang Prabang launched the 555 campaign to encourage domestic tourism as part of the Lao Thiao Lao campaign. The authorities plan to improve tourist attraction amenities, as well as information systems. In 2020, it welcomed 275,647 visitors, a drop of 68% YoYSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2959871987630948
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25-Feb-2021 π outboundTaiwan will allow business travellers from Laos to undergo a 5-day quarantine period on arrivalSource: www.businesstraveller.com/business-travel/2021/02/25/taiwan-reopens-to-business-travellers-from-singapore-and-other-lower-risk-countries/?fbclid=IwAR2Ks3GcA0tPtW_WFmUYNVniwB3bW-VPfV5pNcIHqEilOocqhlj-DW1dDFY
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24-Feb-2021 π¬ inboundThe National University of Laos launched its Bachelor of Arts in tourism in French programSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2959016671049813
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22-Feb-2021 π¬ inboundLuang Prabang railway station is now 45% complete, and is expected to be finished in OctSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2957717724513041
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22-Feb-2021 π vaccineLaos is set to receive 564,000 doses of AstraZeneca via COVAXSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/02/22/laos-to-receive-564000-doses-of-covid-19-vaccine-under-covax-amc/
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19-Feb-2021 π¬ inboundThe Letβs Travel event promoting domestic tourism took place at Vientiane CenterSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2955514924733321
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18-Feb-2021 π¬ inboundThe Vientiane-Vang Vieng Expressway has 120 days to resolve some urgent problems, including overcharging at tollsSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/02/18/govt-gives-expressway-operator-120-days-to-fix-problems/
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18-Feb-2021 π¬ inboundCentral Laos including Vientiane, Borikhamxay, Khammuan, Savannakhet, Xaysomboun, are planning a range of events to stimulate tourism from 2021-2023, as part of the Lao Thiao Lao campaign. It will include fam trips for reporters and companies, upgrading of tourist facilities, training for SME staff and encouraging links between Vientiane and 5 provincesSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2954562348161912
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18-Feb-2021 π¬ inboundLaosβ 2020 visitor numbers dropped by 81% YoYSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2954562348161912
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17-Feb-2021 π¬ inboundA 43.5km road in Champassak has opened to public traffic, running around the perimeter of Don Khong, the largest island in southern LaosSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2953945584890255
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10-Feb-2021 π¬ inboundVientiane is creating a new district, and authorities are now preparing to build infrastructure such as office buildingsSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/02/10/laos-to-create-new-district-in-vientiane
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09-Feb-2021 π¬ inboundSavannakhet will partner with other southern provinces to arrange tours as part of the Lao Thiao Laos campaign. It will highlight the local ethnic groups, as well as their way of life. 2020 saw 144,000 visitors in total, a drop of 82% YoYSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/02/09/laos-pushing-the-tourism-button-savannakhet-joins-forces-with-other-southern-provinces-for-package-tours
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09-Feb-2021 π¬ inboundThe Lao Food Festival 2021 will be held in Vientiane at the end of Feb, promoting traditional Lao food and lifestyleSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2947934765491337
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08-Feb-2021 π¬ inboundLaos has received a new batch of 300,000 doses of SinopharmSource: www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-laos-vaccine/laos-receives-300000-vaccine-doses-from-china-reports-idUSKBN2A810D
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07-Feb-2021 π¬ inboundThe Ministry of Tourism has stressed that more improvements are needed in the tourism industry to support Laosβ socio-economic developmentSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2946820308936116
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07-Feb-2021 π¬ inboundSouthern Laos Tourism has launched a new promotional video, filmed by Discover Laos TodaySource: discoverlaos.today/post/discover-laos-today-works-with-southern-laos-to-create-content-that-is-charming-by-nature?fbclid=IwAR2Lgq12w07GxyPjEhMwZr6DtpXaoc3mNuOGcAXg7mcLfoI3Nl2SqtO2lzs
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05-Feb-2021 π¬ inboundUniqTek will partner with the state sector to teach government employees how to use high tech survey equipment to locate and survey heritage sites. This can be used to develop and improve tourist sites to attract more visitorsSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2944911309127016
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05-Feb-2021 π¬ inboundXieng Khuang provinceβs tourism sector are still making losses, with very few guests. Local tourism stakeholders say that promoting local cultural events will help domestic tourism. In 2020, it welcomed 64,789 visitors, a drop from 2019βs 147,294 pax. 42,851 in 2020 were domestic tourists. The authorities expect 78,511 in 2021, 55,000 locals and the remaining international visitors. They are also working to develop cultural tourism sitesSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2945061762445304
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05-Feb-2021 π¬ inboundLaos will support ASEANβs plans to revive tourism, focusing on restoring capacity building between ASEAN, as well as links between ASEAN and Laos, ASEAN and Russia and other international organisationsSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2944910092460471
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04-Feb-2021 π¨ββοΈ aviationAll humanitarian and charter flights will remain suspended during FebSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/02/04/laos-suspends-humanitarian-and-charter-flights/
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04-Feb-2021 π¬ inboundThe government is looking at incoming air pax to wear an βout smartβ bracelet which will track their movements and contactsSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2944202909197856
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04-Feb-2021 π¬ inboundThe Kapok festival in Tonpheung district, Bokeo province, has been cancelled for the 2nd year in a rowSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2944201799197967
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03-Feb-2021 π¬ inboundLaos has seen more than 21.7 million international visitors from 2016-2020, an increase of 17.7% vs the previous five years. The Ministry of Tourism has said that more needs to be done, including strengthening land and air routes to targeted markets, as well as developing facilities at tourist attractions. They also said that their current marketing campaigns were not attractive enough and had missed many of the target markets. The number of hotels has increased by 4%, guesthouses and resorts by 3.6% and tour operators by 9.1%Source: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/02/03/laos-records-over-21-milion-foreign-visitors-in-past-five-years
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03-Feb-2021 π¬ inboundWeAreLao will soft launch its βSustainable Tourism Laos: Showcaseβ campaign on 8 Feb, to promote Laos as a sustainable destinationSource: wearelao.com/blog/edit-blog-entry-%E2%80%9Csustainable-tourism-laos-showcase%E2%80%9D-soft-launch-next-week?fbclid=IwAR25iGlv4OXCggANHXDxIggpYm4Lczb9f_ERppxsx-DLRkabWv31XDbOMV0
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02-Feb-2021 π¬ inboundChom Ong cave in Oudoxmay province has been officially opened. It is said to be one of the longest in SE Asia at 16kmSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/02/02/laos-chom-ong-cave-one-of-the-longest-in-south-east-asia-opened-as-new-visitor-attraction
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27-Jan-2021 π vaccineLaos has started vaccinations for over 600 medical workers in Vientiane with the Sinopharm vaccine. They expect to vaccinate 1.5 million this year, around 22% of its population, and reach 70% by 2023Source: laotiantimes.com/2021/01/27/laos-begins-vaccinations-of-over-600-medical-workers/
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27-Jan-2021 π¬ inboundChampassak province has received just 117,000 visitors in 2020, down 90% YoY, but it continues to try to revive tourism and upgrade visitor attractions. Oudomxay province recorded 100,000 visitors, a drop of 40% YoY in 2020. The province is also looking to speed up improvements to its accommodation and organise new activities to attract visitorsSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2938126923138788/
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25-Jan-2021 π¬ inboundAttapeu Province is preparing lockdown if necessary after a case was detected in Champasack provinceSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/01/25/attapeu-province-prepares-lockdown-measures-eyes-champasack/
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25-Jan-2021 π¬ inboundThe Vat Phou festival in Champassak province has been downsizedSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2936647373286743
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22-Jan-2021 π¬ inboundBokeo provinceβs Golden Triangle SEZ has been placed under a 2-week lockdown until 25 Jan after a Chinese worker tested positiveSource: www.rfa.org/english/news/laos/bokeo-lockdown-01222021100055.html
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22-Jan-2021 π vaccineRussia has delivered a batch of the Sputnik V vaccineSource: tass.com/economy/1247569
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22-Jan-2021 π¬ inboundThe Phathat Sikhottabong festival in Khammuan province from 26-29 Feb will be scaled down. Last year, 300,000 visitors came to the province, a drop of 30% YoYSource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Phathat15.php
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21-Jan-2021 π¬ inboundThe Skills for Tourism Project have developed 2 guides to help vocational colleges, the βGood Practice Guide for Internshipsβ and the βEducation Enterprise Engagement ManualβSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2933556473595833/
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19-Jan-2021 π¬ inboundThe 15th Elephant Festival in Xayaboury will be scaled down and held on just 1 day, 13 FebSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/01/19/xayaboury-to-see-scaled-down-elephant-festival-this-year/
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19-Jan-2021 π¬ inboundXe-Pian Xe-Namnoy National Protected Area in southern Laos will become a national park soon, and the private sector will be encouraged to develop ecotourism projects to generate income for locals, as well as to protect the forestSource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Xe_Pian_12.php
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19-Jan-2021 π¬ inboundCentara will open 2 new resorts in Vang Vieng, Laos, the Centra by Centara Riverside Resort Vang Vieng and the Thavisouk Riverside Resort & Spa Vang ViengSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/01/19/centara-expands-further-in-laos-with-two-vang-vieng-resorts/
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19-Jan-2021 π¬ inboundViengxayβs tourism facilities remain open, even though there are few visitors. The province aims to promote itself as a green destinationSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2932095377075276/
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19-Jan-2021 π¬ inboundThe National University of Laos has launched a new curriculum which will held the teaching of French and subjects related to tourismSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2932094607075353/
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18-Jan-2021 π¬ inboundThe Laos-China Railway has now completed 242km of track, and is expected to complete the tracks by May 2021Source: laotiantimes.com/2021/01/18/laos-china-railway-sees-242-kilometers-of-track-complete/
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18-Jan-2021 π¬ inboundLaos is targeting $3.8 billion USD for the tourism industry over the next 5 years, with 15 million visitors once the pandemic is under control. If Laos does not have enough vaccines, it will aim for $1.5 billion USD and 6 million arrivals. The number of international arrivals to Laos in 2020 was estimated to be 980,000Source: en.vietnamplus.vn/laos-targets-38-billion-usd-from-tourism-revenue-in-2021/194915.vnp
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16-Jan-2021 π¬ inboundLaosβ unemployment rate grew to 20% in 2020, a 10.6% increase vs 2017Source: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2930750053876475/
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15-Jan-2021 π¬ inboundLaosβ current PM, Thoungloun Sisoulith, has been elected Laosβ new secretary general during the 3-day congressSource: www.bangkokpost.com/world/2051647/laos-names-pm-thongloun-as-new-party-leader
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15-Jan-2021 π¬ inboundSeveral provinces are benefiting from the Lao Thiao Lao tourism campaign, with Oudomxay reporting 3,000 people visiting the province. Champassak province has also earned more revenue during the campaignSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2929308894020591
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13-Jan-2021 π¬ inboundLaos has affirmed 6 new targets under the 9th Socio-economic Development Plan for 2021-2025: maintain steady economic growth, ensure people are better qualified with training, improve peopleβs living conditions, strengthen infrastructure and enhance efficiency of state managementSource: en.vietnamplus.vn/laos-six-development-goals-for-20212025-outlined-at-party-congress/194749.vnp
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13-Jan-2021 π¬ inboundPakxong district in Champassak province is having a new urban design plan implementedSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2927871184164362
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13-Jan-2021 π¬ inboundVangvieng will speed up the development of its services and facilities, as well as add more activities at tourist sitesSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2927870184164462
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13-Jan-2021 π¬ inboundThe Laos-China Railway stations should have their final embellishments in Mar/ Apr, ahead of the opening in DecSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2927871774164303
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12-Jan-2021 π vaccineLaos is in negotiation with Russia to obtain 2 million vaccines within a yearSource: www.urdupoint.com/en/world/russia-laos-discuss-deliveries-of-sputnik-v-1138570.html
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12-Jan-2021 π¬ inboundPhu Bia Mountain will be developed as a sustainable tourist attraction, with the development of the site valued ay $500 million USD. It will include homestays, climbing, cycling and a 5* hotelSource: laotiantimes.com/2021/01/12/phu-bia-mountain-to-be-developed-as-new-tourism-site/
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08-Jan-2021 π¬ inboundVisitors to Luang Prabang were down 68% YoY in 2020, with just 257,647 visitors. 142,435 were foreigners, whilst 133,212 were domesticSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2924013104550170
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07-Jan-2021 π¬ inboundVientiane is planning to develop smart zones in the city, aiming to make the city more liveableSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2923214714630009
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07-Jan-2021 π¬ inboundVang Vieng saw a fall of 60% in its visitors in 2020, and are aiming to attract 300,000 visitors in 2021. Despite the newly opened highway from Vientiane, occupancy remains high on the weekends onlySource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2923216054629875
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07-Jan-2021 π¬ inboundThe National Eldβs Deer Sanctuary in Savannakhet Province is now open for tourists to stay overnight, with a forest tour and activitiesSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2923212051296942
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06-Jan-2021 π vaccineLaos has said that the first vaccines administered have had good results, and will schedule more frontline medical staff next weekSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/01/06/laos-declares-covid-19-vaccinations-safe-more-to-be-inoculated-next-week
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06-Jan-2021 π¬ inboundConstruction of a 5th bridge linking Laos and Thailand has begunSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/01/06/construction-of-fifth-lao-thai-bridge-begins
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06-Jan-2021 π¨ββοΈ aviationThe completion of a new airport in Huaphan province has been delayed for a 3rd time due to budgetary constraintsSource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Opining_3.php?fbclid=IwAR1kIA6oT7xj-rn2eHXmsAyZFWu89v7jtPQEQr39e3ozo68xzYxD7DbQqcA
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05-Jan-2021 π¬ inboundLuang Prabang is set to build a new park in the city, adding more green spaceSource: app.getpocket.com/read/3220626197
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31-Dec-2020 π¬ inboundLaos has received 2,000 doses of the Sinopharm vaccine from China, and has already started to vaccinate 200 volunteers as the 1st phase of its trials. Russia has also said it will provide 500 doses of the Sputnik V in early JanSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/12/31/laos-receives-2000-doses-of-covid-19-vaccine-from-china/
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31-Dec-2020 π¬ inboundBokeo has eased its travel restrictions to reduce the impact on tourism and the economySource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2918040278480786
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30-Dec-2020 π¬ inboundThe China-Laos railway tracks have now been extended from Vientiane to Luang PrabangSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2020/12/30/china-laos-railway-tracks-laid-to-luang-prabang
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30-Dec-2020 π¬ inboundVientiane plans 30 large-scale developments from now until 2025 to accelerate economic growth. Projects include a new international airport in Xaythany district, commercial parks and tourism-related projectsSource: www.phnompenhpost.com/business/laos-capital-plans-30-large-development-projects-2025
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30-Dec-2020 π¬ inboundThere have been concerns raised over the safety of the main ferry operating between Luang Prabang and Chomphey DistrictSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2916525458632268
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29-Dec-2020 π¨ββοΈ aviationLaos has suspended charter flights to and from all other countries until 23 Jan to prevent a second wave from incoming travellersSource: vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Lao_253.php?fbclid=IwAR2XKVJUUO3pxLzMaRe72T_ukkGpVl7ZIHWhjqsNP42TWRr0UwvCgxHut0U
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24-Dec-2020 π¬ inbound20% of Laosβ population is expected to be vaccinated by mid-2021, with at-risk groups prioritised. They will receive the vaccine in Apr through COVAXSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/12/24/laos-extends-covid-19-measures-prepares-for-vaccinations/
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24-Dec-2020 π¬ inboundA proposed Lao PDR Tourism Recovery Roadmap has been released, concluding that βit is unrealistic that domestic tourism in the short term, will provide the cash flow to tourism businesses.β It suggest the reactivation of a national tourism board, as well as Intensify collaboration between the private sector and the government, deploy tourism loan packages, support tourism SME campaigns, facilitate infrastructure investments and strengthen the brandSource: wearelao.com/blog/edit-blog-entry-laos%E2%80%99-rocky-road-recovery
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23-Dec-2020 π¬ inboundThe fee structure for tests has now been adjusted, with foreigners, tourists and those planning to travel abroad for work being charged 1,200,000 LAK and hospital patients, civil servants and Lao students 50,000 LAKSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/12/23/authorities-adjust-covid-19-test-fees-in-laos/
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21-Dec-2020 π¬ inboundThe Vientiane β Vang Vieng expressway has now officially openedSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/12/21/vang-vieng-expressway-officially-opens/
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18-Dec-2020 π¬ inboundLuang Prabang authorities have cancelled New Year celebrations, as well as Hmong and Khmu traditional festivals over fears of an outbreakSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/12/18/luang-prabang-suspends-international-new-year-hmong-and-khmu-celebrations/
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17-Dec-2020 π vaccineLaos is expecting to receive and distribute a COVID-19 vaccine in 2021. He government announced that they will use a vaccine developed in BritainSource: www.xinhuanet.com/english/2020-12/17/c_139597627.htm
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16-Dec-2020 π¬ inboundLaos is considering the Russian Sputnik V vaccine, after its certification in RussiaSource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Laosmulls_244.php
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16-Dec-2020 π¬ inboundThe Vang Vieng Music Fest has now been rescheduled, after the recent cancellation of the Vientiane International Marathon and the Foton Vientiane Half MarathonSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/12/16/vang-vieng-music-festival-to-be-rescheduled-amid-covid-fears/
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15-Dec-2020 π¬ inboundAuthorities are strengthening COVID-19 prevention measures in Bokeo province, with activities which require a large crowd to be bannedSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/12/15/authorities-tighten-covid-prevention-measures-for-bokeo-province/
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14-Dec-2020 π¬ inboundThe government has said that Laos is at risk of a second wave due to the situations in neighbouring countriesSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/12/14/laos-at-risk-of-second-wave-of-covid-19/
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12-Dec-2020 π¬ inboundThe Vientiane β Vang Vieng Expressway will open on 20 DecSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/12/12/vang-vieng-expressway-will-officially-open-on-20-december/
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11-Dec-2020 π¬ inboundLaos is looking to focus on ecotourism and agritourism in 2021 to attract more foreign visitors from 2021 to 2025. The government has said that a wider variety of tourism products and activities must be available. The countryβs Jan-Sep international visitors were down 74% YoY. One of the major challenges Laos faces is that road access to tourism sites is inadequate, and air and transport also remains unsatisfactorySource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Laos_moves_241.php
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11-Dec-2020 π¬ inboundThe Skills for Tourism Project, a scheme to help Lao youth with vocational training for tourism, continues to be successful, even in the face of COVID-19Source: laotiantimes.com/2020/12/11/skills-for-tourism-project-exceeds-expectations-for-2020-and-sets-goals-for-2021/
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10-Dec-2020 π¬ inboundVietnam, Cambodia and Laos leaders approved the Tourism Development Plan for CLV Development Triangle Area 2020-2025, vision for 2030. This involves 13 provinces across the 3 countries being linked for tourism development, improving the quality of ecotourism, agrotourism, community-based tourism, adventure tourism and heritageSource: www.khmertimeskh.com/50791577/cambodia-laos-vietnam-endorse-tourism-development-plan-for-clv-development-triangle-area-2020-2025/
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04-Dec-2020 π¬ inboundLaos has locked down Ton Pheung District in Bokeo Province after 2 Chinese nationals infected with COVID-19 entered illegallySource: laotiantimes.com/2020/12/04/laos-locks-down-ton-pheung-district-following-imported-covid-cases/
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03-Dec-2020 π¬ inboundThe Vientiane to Vang Vieng expresswayβs opening was delayed from its original 2 Dec date, to late DecSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/12/03/vientiane-to-vang-vieng-expressway-to-open-end-of-2020/
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01-Dec-2020 π¨ββοΈ aviationLaos and Vietnam resumed international commercial flights, with Vietnam Airlines operating the flights between Hanoi-VientianeSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/12/01/vietnam-and-laos-resume-commercial-flights/
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30-Nov-2020 π¬ inboundLaos has extended its COVID-19 prevention protocols until 31 Dec, but will still allow in principle religious ceremonies, festivals, and entertainment venuesSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/11/30/laos-extends-covid-19-measures-suspends-charter-flights-again/
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30-Nov-2020 π¬ inboundLaos will suspend charter flights which are experiencing an outbreak of COVID-19. They will allow humanitarian flights, but passengers will not be able to transit through countries with COVID-19 outbreaks. It will continue to suspend its tourist visas until the end of the yearSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/11/30/laos-extends-covid-19-measures-suspends-charter-flights-again/
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30-Nov-2020 π¬ inboundThe Laos-China railway is scheduled to open in Dec 2021, but it may face delays due to villagers residing in areas allocated for the project, parts being stolen and illegal bridges being built over the tracksSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/11/30/laos-china-railway-may-not-be-completed-on-schedule/
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30-Nov-2020 π¬ inboundLaosβ hotel quarantine procedures have come under scrutiny, as sometimes people had contact with friends whilst in hotel quarantine, but it was not reported to health authorities. People staying in government-approved hotels must pay for their own staySource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2890974747854006
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27-Nov-2020 π¬ inboundThe Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism and Amazing Lao Sole Co., Ltd are partnering to boost sustainable tourism, planning a tourism consulting company who will provide advice to businesses considering investing in tourism. They also want to improve the standards of tourism workers, as well as develop a tourism marketing plan. They will run a tourism information campaign for both local and international touristsSource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Public232.php
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19-Nov-2020 π¬ inboundVang Vieng has had over 1.1 million visitors over the last 5 years, of which 700,000 were foreignersSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/11/19/vang-vieng-sees-over-one-million-visitors-in-five-years/
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17-Nov-2020 π¬ inboundLuang Prabangβs tourism industry has been hugely affected, with many hotels, restaurants and vars still closedSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2881513662133448
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16-Nov-2020 π¬ inboundA committee has been formed by tourism businesses to create an event, β12 days in Luang Prabangβ, with the goal to attract domestic tourists over Christmas and the New YearSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2879074755710672/
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13-Nov-2020 π¬ inboundThe government has approved the Vang Vieng β Luang Prabang expressway, which will be 137km long and considerably reduce the travel time from 4-5 hours to just 90 minsSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/11/13/government-approves-vang-vieng-to-luang-prabang-expressway/
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13-Nov-2020 π¬ inboundLaos has been added to the UK governmentβs travel corridor listSource: www.arabianbusiness.com/travel-hospitality/454574-uk-says-to-add-uae-to-travel-corridor-from-saturday
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04-Nov-2020 π¬ inboundVangvieng has launched a new Academy Training Hotel and Restaurant which will be used for students enrolled on tourism and hospitality courses. It is expected to support 90 students per yearSource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Hospitality_215.php
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02-Nov-2020 π¬ inboundLaos has allowed bars and karaoke venues to reopen, but will continue other COVID-19 measurements until 31 DecSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/11/02/laos-eases-covid-19-measures-bars-and-nightclubs-to-reopen/
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02-Nov-2020 π¬ inboundThe Laos government is discussing travel policies with Vietnam and Japan, as well as other ASEAN countries. It will suspend tourist visas and keep borders closed until 31 DecSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/11/02/laos-eases-covid-19-measures-bars-and-nightclubs-to-reopen/
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30-Oct-2020 π¬ inboundTourism entrepreneurs have called for the government to support them, suspending interest payments if possibleSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2861585914126223
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29-Oct-2020 π¬ inboundVietnam and Laos have held bilateral talks where they discussed a need to reopen travel between the 2 of them and restart commercial flights, amongst other issuesSource: en.vietnamplus.vn/deputy-ministeriallevel-vietnamlaos-political-consultation-held/189500.vnp
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28-Oct-2020 π¬ inboundLaosβ agreement for a fast-track immigration with China will begin on 1 Nov β Chinese nationals will need to test negative on arrival and to have been quarantined for 14 days in China prior to departure, as well as 48 hours on arrival in Laos. They will be permitted to enter via the Boten border gate, but it is a one-way agreement, with Laotians not permitted to enter China. A fast-track entry for Vietnam is expected to open a week laterSource: www.rfa.org/english/news/laos/reopen-10282020172439.html
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28-Oct-2020 π¬ inboundLaos expects a 3.3% growth in GDP in 2020, despite COVID-19Source: laotiantimes.com/2020/10/28/laos-expect-3-3-percent-economic-growth-despite-covid-19/
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23-Oct-2020 π¬ inboundLaos is set to start a fast-track immigration with China next week. Chinese nationals will have a shorter quarantine time (duration still under discussion), and they will be permitted to quarantine at home. They may also implement electronic devices to monitor the places which the travellers visit. They would also need to have a test prior to departure and on arrival. The same policy would later also apply to citizens from countries with no community casesSource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Laos_to_207.php
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19-Oct-2020 π¬ inboundLuang Prabang will invest into visitor facilities at attractions, as well as a promotional domestic tourism campaign. The upgrades to attractions will in some cases include facilities for disabled travellers. It will also run a cycling tour with 200 cyclists to promote sustainable tourism. Luang Prabang has received 420,000 tourists this year, down 64% from its targetSource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Luang_203.php
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19-Oct-2020 π¬ inboundThe planning of a new Special Economic Zone in Vang Vieng has now completed its feasibility study. It will include natural tourism sites to attract international visitors and expects to create 27,800 jobsSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/10/19/new-sez-project-in-vang-vieng-completes-feasibility-study/
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18-Oct-2020 π¬ inboundThe That Luang Festival in Vientiane will be smaller this year, focusing on religious traditions rather than carnivals, market stalls and performancesSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/10/18/that-luang-festival-scaled-down-to-ensure-covid-prevention-measures/
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16-Oct-2020 π¬ inboundThe Luang Prabang Film Festival will take place virtually this year from 4-10 DecSource: www.lpfilmfest.org/
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15-Oct-2020 π¬ inboundThe National Taskforce will allow returning residents to complete quarantine in their homes or places of employment instead of designated centres. They must first wait 48 hours on arrival for their test results to come back negative. Tour groups must carry certification of a 14-day pre-flight quarantine, and a negative test result to be allowed entrySource: laotiantimes.com/2020/10/15/laos-to-allow-some-international-arrivals-to-self-isolate-at-home/
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15-Oct-2020 π¬ inboundTourism businesses are cutting their prices to make travel more affordable for local Laotians. The Luang Prabang Chamber of Commerce and Industry has said that in some cases, prices have reduced by more than 3 times, as well as extra perks. An initial survey showed that regionβs tourism businesses had lost $20 million USDSource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Tourism201.php
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15-Oct-2020 π¬ inboundChina and Laos discussed a fast-track immigration policy, allowing Chinese tourists certain privileges, particularly for diplomatic, technical and essential workers, during a trip from the Chinese Foreign Minister to LaosSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/10/15/china-announces-more-assistance-to-laos-during-official-visit/
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14-Oct-2020 π vaccineChina will offer Laos priority access to vaccinesSource: www.xinhuanet.com/english/2020-10/14/c_139440035.htm
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13-Oct-2020 π¬ inboundThe Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism will ensure talented young people are put up for promotionSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/10/13/ministry-of-information-culture-and-tourism-to-promote-competent-staff/
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13-Oct-2020 π¬ inboundA 5-day media fam trip is being run to promote the Lao Thiao Lao domestic tourism campaign. It will uncover destinations throughout the country in northern Oudomxay and Luang Prabang provincesSource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Media_199.php
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12-Oct-2020 π¬ inboundThe government has stressed that entertainment venues should remain closed, and that strict compliance with prevention measures is still necessarySource: www.xinhuanet.com/english/2020-10/12/c_139434181.htm
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12-Oct-2020 π¬ inboundTour operators who wish to bring in tour groups to the country from destinations with no community outbreak of COVID-19 must seek permission from the Taskforce CommitteeSource: www.xinhuanet.com/english/2020-10/12/c_139434181.htm
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12-Oct-2020 π¬ inboundZipline and bridges are being build at Phou Pha Marn, to develop the destination into a visitor attraction. Cabins and treehouses will also be builtSource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Khammuan_198.php
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12-Oct-2020 π vaccineLaos is holding talks with Russia to trial the Russian Sputnik V vaccineSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/10/12/laos-in-talks-to-trial-russian-covid-vaccine/
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10-Oct-2020 π¬ inboundChina has opened an additional expressway to the Lao border to strengthen regional connectivitySource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2020/10/13/laos-and-china-keen-to-boost-regional-connectivity
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08-Oct-2020 π¬ inboundThe Lao National Museum opened in its new location on 6 OctSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/10/08/new-lao-national-museum-officially-opens/
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07-Oct-2020 π¨ββοΈ aviationLao Airlines is supporting the Lao Thiao Lao campaign, as it believes that for it to succeed, it needs βtrue cooperationβ. The airline is launching special packages to attract domestic tourists, and has come up with a recovery plan for 2021-2025, seeing losses until 2024. It will adjust its trade and marketing plan, recruit foreign marketing experts, improve its staff ratio, enhance its debt structure, maintain its safety certification and upgrade its aircraft maintenance qualitySource: laotiantimes.com/2020/10/07/lao-airlines-backs-lao-thiao-lao-domestic-tourism-campaign/
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05-Oct-2020 π¬ inboundNakai-Nam Theun National Park is being looked at as a model for ecotourism in LaosSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2837587266526088
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02-Oct-2020 π¬ inboundThe cabinet has agreed to holding the annual festival to celebrate the end of Buddhist Lent. The government also announced that the closure of entertainment and karaoke venues will continue until 31 OctSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2020/10/02/laos-eases-covid-19-prevention-measures-to-stir-economy
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02-Oct-2020 π¬ inboundThe government has agreed in principle to allow tour groups to visit Laos from countries where there are no community cases. It has also agreed in principle to resume charter flights with countries that have no outbreak. They are also continuing discussions with China and Vietnam for fast-track immigration policies. Quarantine will also be relaxed for those arriving from countries with no community outbreak, who will only need to be tested and wait 48 hours for the results β they will then be able to quarantine at home or in a place arranged by their employer. A basic fee for tests will also be implementedSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2020/10/02/laos-eases-covid-19-prevention-measures-to-stir-economy
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01-Oct-2020 π¬ inboundSecurity has been increased for the Boat Racing Festival this weekendSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/10/01/vientiane-authorities-beef-up-security-for-boat-racing-festival/
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29-Sep-2020 π¬ inboundHundreds of foreigners are still stuck in LaosSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/09/29/hundreds-of-foreigners-remain-stranded-in-laos/
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25-Sep-2020 π¬ inboundThe Boat Racing Festival in Vientiane will take place this year, but at a smaller scale to usual, from 1-3 OctSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/09/25/vientiane-to-see-scaled-down-boat-racing-festival-this-year/
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25-Sep-2020 π¬ inboundLao Airlines has now introduced new freight prices, to give people more choiceSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2828312317453583
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25-Sep-2020 π¬ inboundLuang Prabangβs hotels have lowered rates to attract domestic touristsSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2827368940881254
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24-Sep-2020 π¬ inboundLaos has seen its rating by Fitch drop from B- to CCC, indicating that it faces a substantial credit risk, and that default is a possibility. Sovereign nations do not typically have CCC ratingsSource: asia.nikkei.com/Economy/Laos-credit-downgrade-signals-real-default-risk-as-China-looms
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21-Sep-2020 π¬ inboundThe Eastin Hotel Vientiane Laos is set to open in Q4 2021Source: www.eturbonews.com/688812/absolute-hotel-service-expands-to-laos-with-eastin-hotel-vientiane/
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18-Sep-2020 π¬ inboundThe first train station along the Laos β China railway has been completed, the Nateuy StationSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/09/18/first-station-complete-along-laos-china-railway/
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17-Sep-2020 π¬ inboundThe Vientiane β Vang Vieng expressway is expected to open in DecSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/09/17/vientiane-to-vang-vieng-expressway-to-open-by-december/
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17-Sep-2020 π¬ inboundHuayxai airport expansion is 60% complete and scheduled for completion mid-2021Source: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2820725874878894
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13-Sep-2020 π¬ inboundThe Lao Thiao Lao (Laos travel Lao) was launched on 11 Sep, with public and private ministries co-financing a tourism marketing campaign. It will be predominantly online, focused on inspiring younger travellersβ sense of adventureSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/09/13/lao-thiao-lao-campaign-launched-to-boost-domestic-tourism/
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11-Sep-2020 π¬ inboundVietnam expects to resume commercial flights to Laos and Cambodia from 22 Sep. Passengers will need to have a negative certificate prior to departure, and will be tested on arrival twice. Foreign passengers will need to pay for all quarantine and testing, as well as install the app BluezoneSource: e.vnexpress.net/news/news/vietnam-requires-seven-day-centralized-quarantine-for-foreigners-as-it-resumes-flights-4160463.html
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11-Sep-2020 π¬ inboundSTR has revealed that whilst Laos hotels have not returned to high occupancy levels, the trend is at least positiveSource: str.com/whitepaper/covid-19-impact-cambodia-laos-hotel-performance
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10-Sep-2020 π¬ inboundChomphet and Pak-ou districts in Luang Prabang have now completed infrastructure improvements to help tourism promotionSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2814715885479893
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08-Sep-2020 π¬ inboundThe Deputy Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism has said that the growth of domestic tourism has not been strong, but he is optimistic that if factories resume work, increasing employment, that people will travel more. He also said that the private sector needs to develop new tourism productsSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2020/09/08/locals-aiding-tourism-industry
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07-Sep-2020 π¬ inboundThe Vat Meuang Kang temple in Champassak province will be renovated to attract more tourists. It is thought to be the oldest active temple in LaosSource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Ancient_173.php
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04-Sep-2020 π¬ inboundLaos has tested over 40,000 people since Jan, the Ministry of Health has revealedSource: en.vietnamplus.vn/laos-conducts-covid19-tests-for-over-40000-people/182424.vnp
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03-Sep-2020 π¨ββοΈ aviationThe Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) has submitted plans for international flights to be reinstated to Laos. All pax would be quarantined on arrival (at their own cost). Transit passengers would not be allowed into the country. Pax would also need to provide a negative test prior to departure, and be tested on arrivalSource: e.vnexpress.net/news/news/aviation-agency-unveils-detailed-plans-for-flight-resumption-to-6-asian-destinations-4156217.html
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02-Sep-2020 π¬ inboundThe Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry has said that the slump in tourism was affecting both businesses but also potential income for local people. If the outbreak continues, it could lose more than $500 million USD in tourism revenue, equivalent to 2.7% GDP. H1 saw international visitors decline by 60% YoYSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2020/09/02/domestic-tourism-up-but-laos-feels-loss-in-foreign-visitors
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31-Aug-2020 π¬ inboundCOVID-19 will increase the poverty levels due to job losses and rising costs. Unemployment is set to increase to 20% in 2020Source: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2020/08/31/laos-covid-19-puts-squeeze-on-poverty-reduction-efforts
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28-Aug-2020 π¬ inboundLaosβ inflation remains high, according to the Laos Statistics Bureau, at 5.12%Source: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2020/08/28/inflation-in-laos-remains-high-says-govt
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28-Aug-2020 π¬ inboundThe Lao Thiew Lao campaign has now launched its own Facebook page dedicated to showcasing the country and offer from the tourism industrySource: www.facebook.com/laothiaolao/photos/a.596306564372899/603948576942031
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23-Aug-2020 π¬ inboundLaos and Japan have agreed to open their borders to one another for expatriate and long-term residents as early as Sep. Travellers must stay at home or at a designated place after arriving for 14 days. Laotian students with Japanese government scholarships will also be allowed entry as soon as possible. Japan also pledged $18 million USD to refurbish schools in Laos. They will also speed up talks to allow essential business travelSource: english.kyodonews.net/news/2020/08/75a44d01faa8-urgent-japan-laos-to-relax-coronavirus-travel-restrictions.html
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22-Aug-2020 π¬ inboundLaosβ Hin Nam Ho Karst National Protection Area hopes to gain UNESCO World Heritage status by 2022, as a trans-boundary extension to the World Heritage Site of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park in VietnamSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2020/08/22/laos039-hin-nam-no-to-gain-world-heritage-site-status-by-2022
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21-Aug-2020 π¬ inboundThe launch of a new Hmong culture park at the end of Nov is anticipated, with 80% of construction already completed. It will include a camping ground, restaurant serving local fare and an experience of the Hmong cultureSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2020/08/21/laos039-mountaintop-hmong-park-slated-for-november-launch
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18-Aug-2020 π¬ inboundNakai-Nam Theun National Park will join the IUCN Global Green List, meaning that its nature conservation efforts are recognised under an international standardSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/08/18/nakai-nam-theun-national-park-to-join-iucn-green-list/
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14-Aug-2020 π¬ inbound: Lower and upper secondary school students are being urged to apply for tourism and hospitality courses at Technical Vocational Education Training institutions. All educational offerings have been compiled into one Facebook page, as part of a national online campaign to highlight the benefits of working in the industry, as it is one of the priority sectors for the Laotian governmentSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/08/14/students-encouraged-to-apply-for-tourism-and-hospitality/
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14-Aug-2020 π¬ inboundThe US has added Laos to its list of βvery low riskβ destinations for COVID-19, lifting its Do Not Travel advisory for the countrySource: laotiantimes.com/2020/08/14/cdc-relaxes-travel-advice-for-laos/
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14-Aug-2020 π¬ inboundLaos has detected another 2 imported cases of COVID-19Source: laotiantimes.com/2020/08/14/two-more-covid-19-cases-confirmed-in-laos/
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12-Aug-2020 π¬ inboundLao Zoo is being renovated to include a wildlife education program and upgraded animal enclosures, and will be open in 2021Source: laotiantimes.com/2020/08/12/metamorphosis-underway-for-lao-zoo/
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11-Aug-2020 π¬ inboundEcotourism in Nam Et-Phou Louey National Park in Northern Laos is proving to be a model for ecotourism in the country, as it supports 2,000 householdsSource: www.thestar.com.my/news/2020/08/11/laos-ecotourism-motivates-villagers-to-conserve-wildlife
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07-Aug-2020 π¬ inboundLaos is considering implementing fast-tracks for Vietnam and China. According to reports, this could allow certain individuals, such as diplomatic staff, technical experts and foreign labour to enter with the waiving of the 14-day quarantine periodSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/08/07/laos-considers-fast-track-immigration-for-two-nationalities/
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07-Aug-2020 π¨ββοΈ aviationLao Airlines has restarted its flights from Vientiane β Luang Namtha, operating twice a weekSource: www.facebook.com/LaoAirlines/photos/a.422306681165027/3356173797778286/
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07-Aug-2020 π¬ inbound62 tour guides have qualified from the governmentβs training programmeSource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/sub-new/Previous_149/index.php
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06-Aug-2020 π¬ inboundLaoBuild 2020, Lao Food & Hotel 2020 and LaoCafe 2020 exhibitions have all been postponed to 17-19 Jun 2021Source: jclao.com/top-3-expos-of-laos-postponed-to-2021-due-to-covid-19-crisis/
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04-Aug-2020 π¨ββοΈ aviationLao Airlines has been ranked one of the top regional Asian airlines in the Tripadvisor Travelersβ Choice AwardsSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/08/04/lao-airlines-among-tripadvisor-award-winners-for-best-regional-airlines/
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04-Aug-2020 π¬ inboundExo Travel and Lao Airlines have partnered to create great deals for the domestic market under the Lao Thiew Laos campaignSource: discoverlaos.today/post/partnership-annoucement-discover-laos-and-exo-travel-laos-team-up-for-lao-thiew-laos-campaign?fbclid=IwAR08Iz1coOncUNJe5YJn-YVsxfHWLNrsJk78ln0cg21bu4Co7Uyrxmwjqa4
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31-Jul-2020 π¬ inboundLaos has now suspended all chartered flights as well as scheduled flights until 31 Aug, with tourist visas remaining suspended. Lockdown measures will also be extended until 31 AugSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/07/31/laos-updates-covid-19-prevention-measures-grounds-charter-flights/?fbclid=IwAR2SbsegvVmKnMi2cWVi8KKoZKl78mgM8v_wWaK7QPqeKL9fHPCIrWPEVYc
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31-Jul-2020 π¬ inboundThe launch of the new Heritage Line luxury cruise ship Anouvong has been postponed to 2021Source: heritage-line.com/covid-19-heritage-lines-latest-updates/
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25-Jul-2020 π outboundThe UK has added Laos to its list of countries exempt from advice against βall but essentialβ international travelSource: www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-countries-and-territories-exempt-from-advice-against-all-but-essential-international-travel
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24-Jul-2020 π¬ inboundLaosβs international arrivals dropped by 60% YoY to just 886,447 visitors for H1. Unemployment levels in general has increased to 25%Source: laotiantimes.com/2020/07/24/domestic-tourists-targeted-for-laos-as-international-arrivals-plummet/
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24-Jul-2020 π¬ inboundAchieving the initial target of 4.7 million international arrivals is now impossible in 2020, according to the government. The Tourism Marketing Department will hold a workshop to discuss with local operators the Laos visit Lao domestic tourism campaignSource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_International_142.php
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24-Jul-2020 π¬ inboundLaos has detected its 20th case of COVID-19, this time from a quarantined Korean business traveller. Authorities are calling it a one-off, and not evidence of community transmissionSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/07/24/laos-confirms-new-20th-case-of-covid-19/
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23-Jul-2020 π¬ inboundTour guides in Luang Prabang are being badly affected, as whilst tourism is returning and tourists are booking hotels, guest houses and visiting local attractions, locals do not feel the need to book a guideSource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Domestic141.php
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23-Jul-2020 π¬ inboundJapan announced that it is looking at relaxing entry restrictions for business travellers from 12 Asian territories, including Singapore, Cambodia, Brunei, Malaysia, Myanmar and Laos from SE Asia. Travellers would still need to self-quarantine for 14-days, pass a COVID test and not take public transportationSource: www.straitstimes.com/singapore/coronavirus-singapore-and-japan-will-work-towards-resuming-essential-travel
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22-Jul-2020 π¬ inboundVientiane has revised its target for international tourists to 685,600 from an initial 2 million. H1 recorded 485,600 visitorsSource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/sub-new/Previous_140/index.php
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18-Jul-2020 π¨ββοΈ aviationLaos Airlines is one of the first foreign airlines to be rewarded by China with the ability to increase flights to twice weekly on its Vientiane β Kunming route until 24 OctSource: news.cgtn.com/news/2020-07-18/China-allows-three-airlines-more-international-flights-SdwzFsmAA8/index.html
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17-Jul-2020 π outboundThe government has clarified that medical certificates are not always required for outbound travel from Laos and vary according to circumstance. An official notice will be issued soon for travellersSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/07/17/clarification-on-medical-certificate-requirement-for-travellers/
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16-Jul-2020 π¨ββοΈ aviationLao Airlines is planning to soon resume its Vientiane β Hanoi flight, with two flights weekly, as requested by the Lao PM. The date has not been announced yet. Laos will also soon re-open its first international checkpoint with Vietnam. Laos Airlines has said that passengers from both Laos and Vietnam would be able to enter the destination without having to stay at a quarantine centre. Laos Airlines will also increase its frequency from Vientiane β Kunming to twice weekly, but passengers must still be quarantined for 2 weeks upon arrivalSource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Lao136.php
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16-Jul-2020 π¬ inboundLaos is keeping its borders closed to foreigners, and will only allow foreign technical experts, diplomats, medical tourists and students to travel out from the countrySource: laotiantimes.com/2020/07/16/laos-borders-remain-closed-to-foreign-visitors/
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14-Jul-2020 π¬ inboundCambodia is constructing new checkpoints along the Cambodia-Thailand-Lao PDR border areasSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2020/07/14/cambodia-builds-new-checkpoints-along-laos-thailand-border
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14-Jul-2020 π¬ inboundChampassak region has received just 100,000 domestic and international tourists in H1. It targeted receiving 1 million visitors this yearSource: kpl.gov.la/En/Detail.aspx?id=53289
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14-Jul-2020 π¬ inboundA new border gate may be opened between Laosβ Attapeu Province and Cambodiaβs Ratanakiri Province, and officials say that this could strengthen tourism as currently there is no road connecting the province with LaosSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/07/14/new-border-crossing-for-laos-and-cambodia-proposed/
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14-Jul-2020 π¬ inbound14 Jul: The ADB has released a brief on the state of tourism enterprises within Laos, with some key findings: β’ Half of enterprises surveyed were temporarily closed in May 2020 β’ 78% of tourism businesses in Louangphabang were closed β’ 70% of businesses had reduced employees, with number of employees falling by 38% β’ Larger enterprises who primarily served the international markets have been worse affected β’ The majority of tourism businesses favoured tax relief (84.8%) and cash transfers (68.7%). 63.5% also believed that entry fees for attractions should be waived for 1 year >>Source: www.adb.org/publications/assessment-impact-covid-19-tourism-lao-pdr
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13-Jul-2020 π¬ inboundThe Tad Tontaen waterfall in Borikhamxay province will be developed as a natural tourism attraction, as a feasibility study is underwaySource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Borikhamxay_133.php
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13-Jul-2020 π¬ inboundXaysomboun will develop new tourist sites, with developers planning a new site in Anouvong District which would cost around $500 million USD. Environmental conservation measures would also be taken into accountSource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Xaysomboun_133.php
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10-Jul-2020 π¨ββοΈ aviationThe Vietnamese PM has asked a committee to look into resuming key air routes to Tokyo, Seoul, Guangzhou, Taiwan, Vientiane and Phnom PenhSource: vietnamnews.vn/society/749463/pm-asks-for-more-repatriation-flights.html
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09-Jul-2020 π outboundJapan is planning to start talks about restarting business flights in mid-Jul with 10 more economies, including LaosSource: asia.nikkei.com/Politics/International-relations/Japan-looks-to-reopen-business-travel-with-10-more-Asian-economies
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07-Jul-2020 π¬ inboundLaos and Vietnam have committed to cooperate with each other, pledging to open air routes at the earliest possible timeSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/07/07/lao-and-vietnamese-leaders-discuss-post-pandemic-cooperation/
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04-Jul-2020 π¬ inboundThe building of the Vientiane Station on the Laos-China Railway started on 3 JulSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/07/04/construction-of-vientiane-station-commences-on-laos-china-railway/
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02-Jul-2020 π¬ inboundA βLao Visit Laosβ scheme is being rolled out to encourage domestic tourism. It will start in Jul and be run by the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Hotel and Restaurant Association. Their aim is to make information readily available online about attractions, accommodation and restaurants. It will be a permanent projectSource: www.facebook.com/groups/tourismprofessionalsinlaos/permalink/2748446482106834/
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01-Jul-2020 π¬ inboundThe government confirmed that international borders will be closed except to Lao citizens and foreigners with good reason, and tourist and visitor visas will continue to be suspended. They will also relax further some lockdown restrictions, with sports competitions, casinos and some social gatherings to be allowed to resume, so long as guidelines are followed on COVID-19 prevention. Entertainment venues, such as karaoke bars, and gaming shops, will remain closedSource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Govt125.php
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01-Jul-2020 π¬ inboundLaos has seen full bookings for Vang Vieng from domestic tourists travelling from VientianeSource: www.asiatraveltips.com/news20/17-LaosMyanmar.shtml
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30-Jun-2020 π outboundThailand has opened up 37 border checkpoints on the borders with Malaysia, Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar to facilitate cross-border cargo and trading. Tourists will not be allowed to enter via these checkpoints stillSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2020/06/30/cambodia-and-laos-happy-as-thailand-reopens-37-border-checkpoints
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29-Jun-2020 π¬ inboundTourist numbers dropped by 17% from Jan-May, with just 886,440 tourists. The number of people using air and ground transport dropped by more than 90%. Arrivals from China dropped 16%, whilst from Thailand dropped 5%Source: www.vientianetimes.org.la/login/index.php?ref=/sub-new/Current/Curr_Tourist_123.php
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25-Jun-2020 π¬ inboundThe government will introduce more measures to encourage domestic travel, focusing on removing impediments to travel, standards of transportation and renovation of tourism sites in a draft plan. Tourism earnings of $450,000 USD were lost in Jan β Feb 2020Source: www.vientianetimes.org.la/login/index.php?ref=/sub-new/Current/Curr_Govt121.php?fbclid=IwAR28D1r-A-4Elr2KRiyM_TQiZgbWbAMiyKkwVfqGXZNNW7mb3o7CsmVmKhM
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24-Jun-2020 π outboundMall operators in Thailand call for the government to resume flights to CLMV (Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Vietnam) nations. Some 12% of visitors to the Siam Center, Siam Discovery and Sia, Paragon are all from CLMV nations, and spend an average of $3,250 per visitSource: www.phnompenhpost.com/business/thai-flights-will-reboot-trade?__cf_chl_jschl_tk__=0836986aebe3e733b257c6ff1803dd1bbcd30bd6-1593049810-0-AaPuS4cOzPaEkp19ECGbDA0kcnHPNxGk5lSIL687PECRuQISe9--MNk2DxhWrowkVS0btcUjoFnbbPtvEDbdKoQhbSorSjZVjdmDBmAoBPP5XiUEu5Bk8bap-zMymruGmaleQ4r4hhYRKtoyfyoLAPLzyLHXVLpvoh2GRm3pcCQIGhmUvq-u1fJEU8ItemdlhiROonFBbl1MZBLE7vtVqwyfwJJmLVO18obhGhUOPJY6QOvvknVrivdaDjIe0SUSf7qPdCkpFdzdWx6HOU-GHiV2VHROzfDq3ol4wqzGDdwK7ZbzvwlpB4-a6xZR-C5VBz4r5WYvQ7lbmwdFzOZIKsw
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22-Jun-2020 π¬ inboundChao Anouvong Park will be renovated to attract more touristsSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/06/22/chao-anouvong-park-to-be-upgraded-in-bid-to-attract-tourists/
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22-Jun-2020 π¬ inboundThe Xieng Khouang Airport administration and operations has been handed over to the Lao Armed Forces. It will continue to work with the Department of Civil Aviation to develop the airport and increase passenger numbersSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/06/22/xieng-khouang-airport-handed-over-to-lao-air-force/
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21-Jun-2020 π¬ inboundThe Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone has proposed building a $150 million USD international airport, capable of receiving A320 and B737 aircraft. If approved, building could take just 18 monthsSource: www.facebook.com/AeroLaos/photos/a.546113598770542/2951805671534644/?type=3&theater&ifg=1
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19-Jun-2020 π¬ inboundChampassak province embarked on a program to attract more domestic touristsSource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Champassak_promotes_117.php
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19-Jun-2020 π¬ inboundChampassak and Savannakhet provinces will benefit from a new joint project to preserve its heritage, with the CHAMPA project to boost their positions as tourist destinationsSource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Cultural_117.php
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17-Jun-2020 π¬ inboundEmployers can register with the Lao Social Security Organisation (LSS) to request financial assistance for unemployed or reduced working days staff. This would provide up to 60% support of their salarySource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Social115.php
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16-Jun-2020 π¬ inboundLaos is facing surges in the price for essential foodsSource: www.rfa.org/english/news/laos/prices-06162020154319.html
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15-Jun-2020 π¨ββοΈ aviationLao Airlines has continued expanding its flight frequencies, with additional flights between Vientiane β Luang Prabang, and Vientiane β PakseSource: www.facebook.com/LaoAirlines/?__tn__=%2CdkCH-R-R&eid=ARCfbT-JLku1R2tubEROkRMsoJNjQWZvTbpkOup3Jkm0aDlDFhFRTLElb5n-bGm5brZztf5aEIWwRWLh&hc_ref=ARSDaJlg4rfaf3wu8jkS9iZL7_mHkB9XYF28JxjI5jFGSEFVo4EEz-wLnd4jPIMfd30&fref=nf&hc_location=group
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13-Jun-2020 π outboundThe Thai government has approved in principle the concept of travel bubbles, and potential target countries and territories could include LaosSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1933984/ccsa-blows-towards-travel-bubble-plan
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11-Jun-2020 π¨ββοΈ aviationVietnam Airlines is hoping to resume international flights in July, potentially to Laos, subject to government permissionsSource: e.vnexpress.net/news/business/companies/vietnam-airlines-eyes-july-resumption-of-international-flights-4114005.html
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11-Jun-2020 π outboundVietnam is considering opening flights up to Laos, the Vietnamese government has announcedSource: e.vnexpress.net/news/travel/places/vietnam-considers-resuming-flights-to-some-asian-destinations-4113656.html
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11-Jun-2020 π¬ inboundXaysomboun may soon have new tourism sites after a government meeting. The first phase from 2020-2025 will see hiking, zip lining, camping and mountain climbing activities developedSource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Xaysomboun111.php
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11-Jun-2020 π¬ inboundMore tourism sites may be established in Oudomxay, with 5 new sites under considerationSource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Oudomxay111.php
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11-Jun-2020 π¬ inboundLaos has declared victory over COVID-19 as all confirmed cases are discharged from hospital and no new cases have been detected for 59 daysSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/06/11/laos-declares-victory-over-covid-19/
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10-Jun-2020 π¨ββοΈ aviationLao Airlines will increase its flight frequency to daily between Luang Prabang and Vientiane from 15 JunSource: www.facebook.com/LaoAirlines/photos/a.606162339446126/3194143697314631/?type=3&theater
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08-Jun-2020 π¬ inboundThe Chom Ong caves in Oudomxay will open soon to touristsSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2020/06/08/popular-chom-ong-cave-in-laos-all-set-to-reopen-to-visitors
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05-Jun-2020 π¬ inboundThe Myanmar Deputy Minister of Hotels and Tourism said that the Myanmar government will work together with Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam to introduce regional tourism, with the 4 countries signing an agreement to ease border access between them, although specific details have not yet been releasedSource: www.mmtimes.com/news/myanmar-work-neighbours-revive-tourism.html
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05-Jun-2020 π outboundThe US government has suspended issuing certain visas for Laos citizensSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/06/05/us-suspends-visas-for-citizens-of-laos/
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30-May-2020 π¬ inboundAll school classes will resume on 15 Jun. From 2 Jun, night markets, restaurants and cinemas can reopenSource: en.vietnamplus.vn/asean-countries-continue-loosening-covid19-restrictions/174122.vnp
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26-May-2020 π¬ inboundStudents, Lao citizens, experts and diplomats are allowed to enter and exit Laos with authorisation from the Ministry of Foreign AffairsSource: www.xinhuanet.com/english/2020-05/26/c_139089408.htm
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25-May-2020 π¬ inboundLaos and China will organise joint training courses for tourism workers, teaching tour guides basic Chinese and developing skills so that Chinese tourists can have their needs met. They also agreed to bolster 2-way tourismSource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Laos_China_98.php
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25-May-2020 π¬ inboundLaos and China will organise joint training courses for tourism workers, teaching tour guides basic Chinese and developing skills so that Chinese tourists can have their needs met. They also agreed to bolster 2-way tourismSource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Laos_China_98.php
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22-May-2020 π¬ inboundThe Lao tourism board may be established again, according to the President of the LNCCI, in a webinar hosted by Austcham Lao PDRSource: www.facebook.com/watch/?v=555528928720165
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22-May-2020 π¬ inboundAuthorities announced they will start to reopen international borders with neighbouring countries (China, Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand), but foreigners would only be permitted to enter should they have the appropriate authorisation from the Ministry of Foreign AffairsSource: jclao.com/gradual-reopening-of-intl-borders/
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21-May-2020 π¬ inboundDomestic travel is now permitted in LaosSource: www.xinhuanet.com/english/2020-05/21/c_139075552.htm
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16-May-2020 π¬ inboundLaos eased its lockdown restrictions from 15 May. Businesses and government agencies are allowed to reopen from 18 May, and transport and interprovince movement is allowed again. Schools will be reopened from 18 May in phases. Indoor and outdoor sporting activities are allowed to take place. However, night markets, beer shops, nightclubs, karaokes, casinos and cinemas will remain closed. Gatherings for weddings and cultural events are limited to 50 paxSource: en.vietnamplus.vn/laos-relaxes-some-restrictions-after-33-days-of-no-new-covid19-cases/173416.vnp
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16-May-2020 π¨ββοΈ aviationLaoskyway will resume flight services on 24 MaySource: www.laoskyway.com/?fbclid=IwAR2uH2OfBC-YTe4J-kzju4z2hf8r_cfr62_cKkzegDk57nEE_AfaQXcgVB0
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15-May-2020 π¨ββοΈ aviationLao Airlines will be resuming domestic flights from 22 MaySource: www.facebook.com/LaoAirlines/photos/a.606162339446126/3123521167710218/?type=3&theater
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08-May-2020 π¨ββοΈ aviationLaos is extending its flight ban, with Lao Airlines also confirming that it would not reopen domestic flight routes. Luang Prabang tourist sites will remain closedSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2020/05/laos-extends-flight-ban/
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02-May-2020 π¬ inboundLaos will allow restaurants, shopping centres, retail and service businesses to reopen on Mon 04 May, but people must wear face masks outside and keep social distancing. This will continue until 17 May, but should new infections be detected in 2 provinces, lockdown will be implemented once moreSource: asia.nikkei.com/Spotlight/Coronavirus/Virus-free-Laos-lifts-shutters-on-shops-and-restaurants
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30-Apr-2020 π¬ inboundLaosβ Q1 domestic and foreign visitors totalled 886,440, representing a 17% downturn YoY, with more than $450,000 USD lost in the first two months of 2020Source: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Asean81.php
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28-Apr-2020 π¬ inboundThe Lao Hotel and Restaurant Association met with the government to convey their concerns and issues, many of which will take a long time to resolveSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/04/28/hotel-and-restaurant-owners-discuss-concerns-with-dpm/
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24-Apr-2020 π¨ββοΈ aviationIATAβs revised estimates show that passenger demand could fall by 51% in 2020, with a loss of $0.22 billion USD in revenue and 23,800 jobsSource: www.iata.org/en/pressroom/pr/2020-04-24-01/
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15-Apr-2020 π¬ inboundLockdown extended by 14 days until 03 MaySource: www.vientianetimes.org.la/freeContent/FreeConten_Laos_extends_80.php
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03-Apr-2020 π¬ inboundTourism businesses will have a tax deferral for 3 months from April, the government announced, as part of fiscal measures to help the economySource: laotiantimes.com/2020/04/03/lao-government-to-provide-tax-breaks-reduced-rates-amid-coronavirus-outbreak/
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29-Mar-2020 π¬ inboundLaos will be under lockdown, with international and interprovincial borders closed to all travellers from 30 Mar to 19 AprSource: laotiantimes.com/2020/03/29/laos-to-enter-full-lockdown-starting-march-30/
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24-Feb-2020 π¬ inboundLaos could lose up to $20 - 25 million USD from travel cancellations. However, this is likely to increase if other tourists also stop visiting the countrySource: www.phnompenhpost.com/business/growth-laos-expected-remain-resilient-despite-economic-stresses
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Policy Summary
Lockdown Status
All economic sectors reopened.
Travel Restrictions
Fully vaccinated travellers permitted to enter Laos from 9 May without testing or quarantine.
Containment Policies Timeline
How to read this graph
International Travel Restrictions
- 0 - no restrictions
- 1 - screening arrivals
- 2 - quarantine arrivals from some or all regions
- 3 - ban arrivals from some regions
- 4 - ban on all regions or total border closure
Internal Movement Restrictions
- 0 - no restrictions
- 1 - recommend not to travel between regions/cities
- 2 - internal movement restrictions in place
Stay At Home Requirements
- 0 - no measures
- 1 - recommend not leaving house
- 2 - require not leaving house with exceptions for daily exercise, grocery shopping, and 'essential' trips
- 3 - require not leaving house with minimal exceptions (eg allowed to leave once a week, or only one person can leave at a time, etc)
School Closures
- 0 - no measures
- 1 - recommend closing
- 2 - require closing (only some levels or categories, eg just high school, or just public schools)
- 3 - require closing all levels
Economy Summary
Fiscal support for the tourism industry
6 Dec 2021: Tax exemptions for the tourism industry has been extended
3 Apr 2020: Tax deferral for 3 months from Apr 2020
GDP Growth Rate
% per year
6.2
2018
5.0
2019
-2.5
2020
forecast
4.5
2021
forecast
Inflation Rate
% per year
2.0
2018
3.3
2019
5.5
2020
forecast
5.0
2021
forecast
Source: Asian Development Bank. Asian Development Outlook 2020 Update.
Tourism Arrivals Summary
International Tourism Arrivals
YoY % change
6.0
Jan'20
3.0
Feb
-52.0
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan'21
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
π About This Page
Travel impact dashboard is an easy-to-read resource to stay informed on the impact of COVID-19 on the travel industry. Get the latest travel news and analysis on Southeast Asia tourism.
For travel professionals who need regular updates on their source markets. Know when to start marketing for inbound and outbound tourism.
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π Coronavirus Impact Summary
The content is a general description of informative nature only and is accurate at time of publication. Pear Anderson assumes no responsibility for completeness, errors or omissions in the information and makes no warranty as to the accuracy, completeness or suitability of the information. This collection of content is created by Pear Anderson and various sources credited on the page.