(KPL) Australian Ambassador to Laos Megan Jones visited Savannakhet Province from 25-26 March to promote deeper trade and investment between Australia and Laos under Invested: Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy.   

Ambassador Jones visited Savan-Xeno Special Economic Zone and discussed opportunities for strengthening cooperation between SEZ stakeholders and Australian businesses.  

The Ambassador highlighted the potential for Australian investment in the SEZ, especially in logistics and agriculture as well as building connections with key businesses in the province.

Mr Charles Olsson, Australia’s Business Champion for Laos joined the Ambassador to learn about opportunities for investing in Laos and connecting with developers and investors in the SEZ.

In addition, the visit provided an opportunity for Mr Olsson to explore the investment landscape in the SEZ, its policies, and on-going and future development projects. 

While in Savannakhet, Ambassador Jones paid a courtesy call to Governor of Savannakhet Province Bounchom Oubonpaseuth to discuss Australia’s support for Laos’ socio-economic development, and Australia’s role as a responsive and effective partner for Laos.  

The Ambassador underscored Australia’s commitment to deepen two-way trade and investment, focusing on business opportunities in the agriculture, natural resources, and green energy sectors in Laos. 

Furthermore, the Ambassador reiterated Australia’s interest in understanding the unique challenges and opportunities in Savannakhet’s investment environment, underlining the importance of public-private collaboration in furthering regional economic growth and investment. 

During the visit, Ambassador Jones also met with Vice Governor of  Savannakhet Province Lingthong Sengtavanh to discuss strengthening Australia-Laos cooperation and people-to-people connections.  

The visit provided an opportunity for Mr Charles Olsson, Australia’s Business Champion for Laos to meet with Australia’s alumni in the local business community and members of Savannakhet Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Young Entrepreneur Association of Laos, and to understand their roles in supporting businesses in Savannakhet.

KPL