Second Lao-French business workshop to promote trade, investment
Second Lao-French business workshop to promote trade, investment
Asecond Lao-French business workshop to promote trade and investment between the two countries will take place in Vientian e this week.
The workshop will explore business opportunities between Laos and France in line with the current vision and policies of the two governments.
The workshop will run from January 23-27 to discuss trade and economics including investment opportunities in Laos, the francophone economy, tourism, and climate change.
Vice Mayor of Vientiane Mr Keophilavanh Aphaylath announced the programme for the Second Lao-French Business Workshop at a press conference held by Vientiane authorities, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, and the Embassy of France to Laos.
He said the workshop has an important role in the many potential investment opportunities in Laos including the export of Lao commodities to France and Lao imports from France. One of the main reasons to invest in Laos is its economic stability and the government's investment promotion policy.
The workshop will provide information on investment opportunities and give entrepreneurs and organisations more understanding about doing business in Laos. It would strengthen cooperation between Laos and France in terms of economic and infrastructure development, and future regional cooperation, Mr Keophilavanh said.
He also highlighted the private sector as the key factor in national economic growth so the government was continuing its efforts to assist business. Steady development over the past years has created many business opportunities and would provide more in the future, he added.
The strategies developed by the government include the Development Vision to 2030, the Strategy of Country Development to 2025, and the 8th Five Year Plan from 2016-2020.
However, bilateral trade ties with Laos are not reflective of the close ties that both countries share and there is need for increased connection between French businesses and private enterprise with Laos.
The workshop will be held at the Landmark Mekong Riverside Hotel and will display handicrafts, consumer goods and electronic devices for sale.
According to the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, Lao exports to France in fiscal year 2014-15 exceeded US$11.18 million, while Lao imports of French products amounted to over US$7.89 million.
Last fiscal year, Laos' exports to France were valued at US$6.83 million, while Laos imported goods from France worth US$8.22 million.
Exports from Laos to France include drinks, rice, fabric and other commodities.
Goods imported from France include fruit, fish and other products.
