Lao’s economic model has failed to create enough jobs and primarily benefited the upper class and elites while adding to the government’s ever-larger debt.
Category: Laos
RFA Reveals New Chinese Banana Plantation Near Lao Capital That Defies Ban
One worker is quitting as the risk of using excessive pesticides and herbicides isn’t worth the 60,000 kip (about $7) she earns for day’s work.
Villagers in Laos and Thailand Suffer as China Opens the Floodgates on Mekong River Dams
The recent opening of floodgates caused water levels in the Mekong to increase as much as 3.7 meters in some places, the largest in 37 years.
Lao Government Begins Plan to Inspect 55 Dams One Year After PNPC Disaster
“So far, we’ve discovered that some small dams are not up to standards. They don’t have the [necessary] consultants and insurance [in place].”
Climate change breeds early dengue outbreak in Laos
Lao health ministry says climate change has brought abnormal rainfall ahead of the rainy season, creating breeding grounds for the mosquitos that carry the disease.
Xieng Khuang cracks down on illegal logging and corrupt officials
Authorities in Xieng Khuang province are investigating more officials allegedly involved in taking bribes in connection with the illegal timber trade which has caused great damage to the nation.
Two Years Later, 60 Families in Laos Still Waiting for Compensation for Dam Collapse
The investigation is now complete and all the information about the damages has been compiled and reported to the central committee.
Can Laos manage its debt to China?
The country’s gross debt is forecast to rise to more than 70% of Laos’ gross domestic product (GDP). The World Bank recommends that governments should aim for less than 40%; the International Monetary Fund (IMF) suggests 50%.