(KPL) On June 13, 2025, during the 9th Ordinary Session of the 9th Legislature, the National Assembly praised the government's efforts in making Visit Lao Year 2024 a success. Lawmakers also called for more improvements to strengthen the tourism sector.

Minister of Information, Culture, and Tourism, Ms. Suansavanh Vingaket, presented the report on the program's results and future plans. The National Assembly welcomed the ministry's work, which attracted many local and international tourists to Laos.

Mr. Keorattana Silavong, Assembly member from Champasak Province, praised the national and provincial-level events, as well as overseas campaigns that boosted Lao tourism. He urged the ministry to improve systems for tracking tourist numbers at land, water, and air entry points. Accurate data would help calculate fees for the tourism development fund.

He also highlighted the need to upgrade transport. Many tour buses are old and unsafe, causing breakdowns and accidents. He proposed policies to support the import of quality vehicles and improve transport stations. Safety standards for drivers should also be enforced.

To attract more visitors, he recommended ongoing promotion of key tourist sites, both locally and abroad. The recent visa exemptions for neighboring countries boosted tourist numbers, she noted. The government should consider expanding the list of visa-free countries.

Improving roads to major tourist sites is also a priority to make travel easier and more appealing for both domestic and foreign visitors.

Ms. Suayphet Thongsambath, Assembly member from Houaphan Province, emphasized that tourism is one of the province’s five key economic sectors. Houaphan now has 158 tourist sites. However, poor roads and underdeveloped facilities limit its potential.

She called for faster road upgrades especially between Vientiane and the northern provinces as well as better infrastructure at attractions like the Stone Garden. Many guesthouses and restaurants still lack basic amenities.

Ms. Suayphet also stressed the need for stronger environmental protection in tourist areas, including stricter waste management and public awareness campaigns.

KPL