(KPL) Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone and his delegation visited the Boten Beautiful Land Special Economic Zone in Luang Namtha Province on July 29 to review ongoing development efforts.
Provincial Governor Viengsavath Siphandone, along with other provincial leaders, heads of relevant departments, and representatives of local developers, welcomed the delegation.
During the visit, developers reported significant progress in the zone’s construction, including leveling of 800 hectares of land; completion of electricity and water supply infrastructure (a water treatment plant with a daily capacity of 10,000 cubic meters); and over 40 buildings for trade, services, education, duty-free shops, banks, hotels, and retail stores.
To date, nearly 1,000 companies—primarily from China, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Singapore, and Malaysia—are operating in the zone, employing over 10,000 workers (60% of whom are Lao nationals).
In related developments, CGN Energy Technology (Laos) has signed Project Development Agreements (PDAs) with local authorities for two major energy projects including a 450 MW wind power project in Sing and Long districts, and a 580 MW solar power project in Luang Namtha.
Construction on these projects is expected to begin by the end of this year.
Additionally, Mr. Anixay Soukhavong, President of Lanexang Road and Bridge Construction, briefed the Prime Minister on the progress of the Boten-Nateuy Expressway. The 14.48 km, 32 m-wide highway, a joint venture between a local company and Singapore Highway Company, represents a total investment of US$163 million.
During the visit, Prime Minister Sonexay urged local authorities to prioritize infrastructure development, particularly improving transport connectivity to facilitate faster cross-border trade. He also emphasized the need to attract high-quality domestic and foreign investments by applying lessons learned from other countries.
The Prime Minister further encouraged authorities to promote export-oriented production within the economic zone, boost tourism and leisure services, and expand employment opportunities for locals.
The Premier also toured a garment factory producing handbags, caps, and belts for export.