(KPL) Minister of Industry and Commerce, Malaythong Kommasith, delivered a forward-looking address to the 9th Ordinary Session of the 9th National Assembly on June 10, 2025, outlining a series of key initiatives aimed at expanding market access, boosting local production, and enhancing economic resilience.

The Ministry is advancing a wide range of progressive policies to strengthen the sale and distribution of locally made products. These include the well-received "One District – One Product" initiative, integration of local goods into modern retail outlets such as Kokok Mart, Mini Big C, Jiffy, PT, and 7-Eleven, and the continued expansion of discount markets across both central and provincial levels.

With strong support from retail partners, these efforts are already delivering tangible results. To further empower producers and reduce consumer costs, the Ministry is also promoting e-commerce adoption, cutting out intermediaries and boosting direct-to-consumer sales.

To address the complexity of commodity pricing, the Ministry is adopting a comprehensive strategy inspired by successful international models particularly the role of state-owned enterprises in managing supply and demand. These insights are being adapted to suit the Lao economic landscape.

In collaboration with key stakeholders including the Ministries of Agriculture, Finance, and Environment, the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and various business associations the Ministry is working toward more responsive, well-rounded economic policies that align with both market conditions and National Assembly guidance.

Public and parliamentary concerns about electricity pricing are being addressed with urgency. The Ministry is coordinating with technical experts and relevant committees to explore sustainable solutions that alleviate financial strain while safeguarding national infrastructure. A transparent and inclusive approach is central to these ongoing efforts.

The government is reaffirming its commitment to environmental accountability in mining operations. Projects failing to meet required standards particularly those rated C and C+ are now under close scrutiny. Companies are being given a structured path toward compliance through formal agreements. Those that remain non-compliant face the risk of license suspension or revocation.

In a bold move toward greater energy security, the Ministry is implementing its fuel security strategic plan. Key measures include diversifying fuel suppliers, establishing a national fuel reserve fund, reforming the state-owned fuel enterprise, promoting electric vehicle (EV) adoption, expanding the use of railways for fuel transport, and encouraging a diversified energy mix.

These initiatives aim to reduce national fuel costs, enhance energy resilience, and support environmental sustainability over the long term.

KPL