Speaking to Lao journalists during a media tour in Champasak from October 29–31, 2026, Phaivanh said visitor numbers had steadily increased following improvements to roads in Nakasang and tourism facilities on Don Det and Don Khone.
The growth in tourism has created economic opportunities for more than 3,200 residents across Nakasang and the two islands, he said.
During the visit, Asian Development Bank Country Director for Laos Shanny Campbell highlighted tourism’s potential to support the wider economy. She said every US$1 invested in tourism could generate an average return of US$3, with benefits extending to other sectors.

Tourism also brings foreign currency into the country, supports the payment of essential imports and creates jobs and business opportunities. It allows more people to earn a living in their own communities rather than having to move elsewhere for work, contributing to more sustainable livelihoods, Campbell said.
Yo Bouthtivong, head of the Don Det-Don Khone Tour Guide Community Service Association, said the association operates 28 vehicles, including 10 electric vehicles, for visitors.
An electric vehicle accommodating up to 10 people can be hired for 330,000 kip per day to travel around Don Det and Don Khone. For larger groups visiting attractions such as Ban Hang Khone, the Pa Kha border point, Khone Pa Soy and Li Phi Waterfall, the daily rental fee is 550,000 kip, he said.
Yo added that the tourism infrastructure development project had brought significant improvements to the lives of people in the local community.