Lao Government Reviews September Performance, Sets October Priorities

The Government of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic convened a two-day meeting on September 22–23, chaired by Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, to review performance for September and set priorities for October. Deputy Prime Ministers, cabinet members, heads of ministries and state agencies, and provincial leaders participated via video conference. According to Mr. Khengkham Keonhouchan, Deputy Minister and Deputy Head of the Prime Minister’s Office, the meeting noted that despite challenging international conditions and domestic natural disasters including heavy rainfall, flash floods, and landslides, the government maintained political stability and social order while implementing priority tasks. State revenue collection reached 78% of the annual plan, with expenditure execution at 56%. Average inflation was recorded at 7.7%. In terms of employment, over 11,000 workers secured legal employment opportunities domestically and overseas, representing 174% of the monthly target. Measures to contain African Swine Fever (ASF) were strengthened in six provinces, and the 2026–2027 academic year was launched. Road restoration efforts for areas damaged by natural disasters were also undertaken. Furthermore, several strategic plans and draft laws were approved in principle, including the National Action Plans on Gender Equality, Mothers and Children, and the Elimination of Violence against Women and Children for 2026–2030, the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2026–2035, and the Satellite Development and Utilisation Strategy 2026–2035. In the legal sector, revised drafts of the Laws on Electricity and Minerals were approved, along with the merger of the Laws on Health Insurance and Social Security into a single law. Guidelines on administrative management and sectoral responsibilities at the sub-district (taseng) level were also endorsed. Looking ahead to October, Prime Minister Sonexay instructed ministries and local administrations to focus on strengthening public security, combating online scams, drug trafficking, armed robbery, and traffic accidents, and improving revenue collection and expenditure management. Acceleration of preparations for reports to be submitted to the 2nd Ordinary Session of the 10th National Assembly, including the 2026 Socio-Economic Development Plan, State Budget, and Monetary Plan, along with targets for 2027, was also requested. Other priorities include completing key executive decrees, strengthening agricultural recovery post-floods, investigating the causes of ASF outbreaks, and developing assistance measures for affected pig farmers. Preparations for nationwide activities for National Teachers’ Day on October 7 will also proceed, and the implementation of the 10th Five-Year Public Health Development Plan for 2026–2030 will continue. Prime Minister Sonexay urged all agencies to translate government decisions into concrete action plans with clear responsibilities, deadlines, and measurable results.