Doing Business in Laos

Mining and related services are key areas of interest for Australian business in Laos.

Laos is situated in an economic growth area, sharing borders and common interests with Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia and China, and is in possession of considerable natural and mineral resources, which have supported its growth over recent years. As transit routes are further developed and trade and investment governance is simplified and more effectively implemented, further trade opportunities should be developed. Yet Laos lags behind most of developing and emerging Asia on per capita income, creditworthiness and business climate.

Mining and mining services are key area of interest for Australian business in Laos. A number of Australian companies have mining investment and exploration interests in Laos, and an agreement on the promotion and protection of investment between Australia and Laos has been in place since 1995. Major Australian exports to Laos include pumps for liquids and parts, taps, valves, civil engineering equipment and parts. Services such as tourism and education also form an important part of the bilateral economic relationship.

Laos is also party to the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (AANZFTA), which delivers benefits for Australian businesses in the areas of tariff reduction and elimination, economic engagement and cooperation, greater certainty for service suppliers and investors and supply chain opportunities.  

Doing Business in Laos

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  • Why do business in Laos?

    Laos is situated in an economic growth area.

    Laos is situated in an economic growth area, sharing borders and common interests with Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia and China, and is in possession of considerable natural and mineral resources, which have supported its growth over recent years. As transit routes are further developed and trade and investment governance is simplified and more effectively implemented, further trade opportunities should be developed. Yet Laos lags behind most of developing and emerging Asia on per capita income, creditworthiness and business climate.

    Mining and mining services are key area of interest for Australian business in Laos. A number of Australian companies have mining investment and exploration interests in Laos, and an agreement on the promotion and protection of investment between Australia and Laos has been in place since 1995. Major Australian exports to Laos include pumps for liquids and parts, taps, valves, civil engineering equipment and parts. Services such as tourism and education also form an important part of the bilateral economic relationship.

    Laos is also party to the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (AANZFTA), which delivers benefits for Australian businesses in the areas of tariff reduction and elimination, economic engagement and cooperation, greater certainty for service suppliers and investors and supply chain opportunities.  

  • Business etiquette in Laos

    Shoes are generally removed when entering someone's home.

    • In Laos, it is rude to point your fingers upwards. Waving hello is OK, but fingers are generally pointed down at other times.

    • Always remain calm when dealing with others.

    • Do not talk about the government or about politics.

    • Shoes are generally removed when entering someone's home. It is also considered rude to put your feet up on furniture.

    Looking to develop your understanding further? Discover the Asialink Business online courses and face to face training opportunities available to help set yourself up for success in the Asian markets.