Thoulakhom District Intensifies Scrutiny on Accommodation to Curb Online Scammers

The Culture and Tourism Office of Thoulakhom District, Vientiane Province, has issued a notification prohibiting accommodation and service providers from facilitating or supporting individuals involved in internet crimes, online gambling, and scams. The notification, issued on September 1, 2026, aims to implement Prime Minister's Order No. 32/PM on strengthening measures to prevent and combat internet crimes, online gambling, and scams, as well as Ministry of Public Security Notice No. 308/MPS. Under the measures, Lao citizens, foreigners, stateless persons, organizations, businesses, and accommodation providers—including hotels, guesthouses, resorts, apartments, and rental houses—are prohibited from knowingly providing accommodation, facilities, or other forms of direct or indirect support to groups involved in such illegal activities. The district office has instructed hotels, guesthouses, resorts, apartments, restaurants, and other service providers to strictly comply with the measures and strengthen monitoring to prevent criminal activities. Authorities stated that these measures are aimed at maintaining peace, security, and social order, and called on all relevant individuals and businesses to strictly implement the notification. This move highlights the Lao government's focus on maintaining social stability within its one-party system. The intensified scrutiny on accommodation providers, which could potentially serve as a base for online scam operations, possibly influenced by regional dynamics, reflects efforts to uphold domestic security and manage international perception. Laos, while maintaining close ties with countries like China and Vietnam, faces the challenge of addressing domestic economic and social issues. These measures are seen as part of a broader effort to tackle these multifaceted challenges.