(KPL) The Lao-China Cooperation Committee convened on March 14, 2025, to review the progress of bilateral cooperation in 2024 and outline priorities for 2025. The meeting was chaired by Mr. Phet Phomphiphak, Minister of Planning and Investment and Chairman of the Committee, with participation from deputy ministers, senior government officials, and provincial representatives. Local stakeholders joined via video conference.

Vice Chairman of the Lao-China Cooperation Committee, Mr. Xaisana Sitthiphone, presented a report on the past year's achievements, emphasizing the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between Laos and China, based on the "Four Goods" principle of good neighbors, good friends, good comrades and good partners

He highlighted that 2024 marked the first year of the Laos-China Community with a Shared Future Master Plan (2024-2028), which aims to deepen collaboration and enhance development standards.

Key Achievements in 2024

Development and Grant A

Several major China-funded projects were successfully completed in 2024 including:

Institute of Communication and Information Technology

E-Commerce Platform for Agricultural Products

Urgent Material-Equipment Aid for the 5th Population and Housing Census (2025)

Luang Prabang Hospital Improvement Project

Biomedical Laboratory Equipment Aid

Provision of vehicles and equipment to support Laos' ASEAN chairmanship

Bilateral trade between Laos and China reached USD 8.23 billion in 2024, marking a 15.91% increase from the previous year.

Laos' exports to China was USD 4.56 billion (+21.4%)

Laos' imports from China was USD 3.68 billion (+9.8%)

Trade has grown significantly over the past decade:

2022: USD 5.68 billion

2023: USD 7.09 billion

2024: USD 8.23 billion

China remains Laos' largest investor, with 927 approved projects worth over USD 18 billion since 1989. Investment has been concentrated in electricity, mining, services, and agriculture.

In 2024, 196 training programs were conducted, benefiting 2,068 participants across Laos and China. These programs have strengthened the skills of Lao professionals in key sectors.

Future Plans for 2025

The meeting also reviewed new policy developments:

Revised Decree on the Lao-China Cooperation Committee (No. 637/PM Office, issued 18/11/2024) – Expands public participation in investment promotion.

Third Draft of the Laos-China Economic-Technical Cooperation Master Plan (5-year plan) – Defines future areas of cooperation and upcoming projects.

Implementation Guidelines for Chinese Grant Programs – Establishes clear regulations for effective utilization of Chinese aid.

Additionally, the Committee discussed challenges faced in 2024 and proposed strategies to enhance bilateral cooperation in 2025. The focus will be on aligning cooperation with Laos' economic priorities, improving policy execution, and ensuring the successful implementation of high-level agreements.

With these commitments, Laos and China continue to strengthen their long-standing partnership, fostering economic growth and development for both nations.

KPL