LOCA, a Vientiane-based transport tech firm, is the Lao PDR’s first and largest EV ride-hailing platform. Photo credit: LOCA.

Frontier markets, often defined by limited capital, weak infrastructure, and elevated investment risks, face challenges in attracting private finance for climate innovation. However, agile local enterprises are emerging as key drivers of change. In the Lao PDR, LOCA, a Vientiane-based transport tech firm, exemplifies how climate-positive, digitally enabled models can succeed in resource-constrained settings—with the right policy support, finance, and innovation.

Transforming Urban Transport in Laos

Since launching in 2018, LOCA has formalized over 1,000 drivers, introduced cashless payment systems, and deployed more than 100 electric vehicles (EVs), all powered by a locally developed tech platform. By mid-2025, LOCA had completed over 400,000 rides, with 60% of users being international tourists.

In 2024, LOCA introduced the LOCA MINI, a low-cost, fully electric micro-taxi service. Equipped with PM2.5 air filtration, safety features, and accident insurance, it offers base fares from 29,500 LAK (USD 1.35). The service operates exclusively via the LOCA app, reflecting growing digital adoption in Laos.

Building EV Infrastructure

Recognizing infrastructure as essential, LOCA began investing in EV charging in 2023. By mid-2025, it had expanded to 47 fast-charging stations, with plans for 200 by year-end. It is also converting disused petrol stations into EV charging points, repurposing real estate for climate infrastructure.

Green Bonds and Impact

In late 2025, LOCA will issue the Lao PDR’s first green bond, raising USD 2.5 million to grow its EV fleet and charging network. Denominated in both USD and LAK, the bond is backed by local licensed intermediaries.

LOCA’s fleet has surpassed 11 million kilometers, avoiding over 2 million kg of CO₂ emissions. Women now comprise 20% of drivers, above national averages in transport. Drivers also benefit from fuel cost savings, increasing net incomes and sustainability.

Economically, LOCA has reduced over 1.5 million liters of imported fuel, improving Laos’s balance of payments and supporting its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). Its compliance with personal income tax (5%), VAT (10%), and corporate tax (20%) strengthens public trust and domestic revenue mobilization.

Bridging the Capital Gap

Despite strong fundamentals, LOCA—like many frontier innovators—faces challenges accessing capital due to limited collateral and short track records. Development finance institutions (DFIs), such as the Asian Development Bank (ADB), are stepping in with risk-tolerant capital and advisory services.

ADB is helping LOCA create a green finance framework aligned with ASEAN taxonomy standards to ensure transparency and accountability for green bond proceeds.

LOCA proves frontier markets can generate scalable, climate-smart solutions. With catalytic capital and supportive policy, green innovators can drive inclusive, resilient growth—offering a blueprint for similar economies across the region.

KPL