(KPL) Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone on August 17, 2026, visited and provided guidance on the development and management of the Boten Dan Ngam Special Economic Zone in Luang Namtha Province.

The Prime Minister was accompanied by the Provincial Party Secretary and Governor, provincial authorities, the Chairman of the Group of Companies developing the zone, and relevant officials.

Established in 2012, the Boten Dan Ngam Special Economic Zone comprises four main sectors: finance and international trade, industry, logistics and transport, and tourism. Most basic infrastructure, including roads and water supply systems, has been completed, while preparations are underway for the construction of a data centre.

During the visit, Prime Minister Sonexay directed relevant authorities and the zone developer to take measures to improve investment promotion and management and ensure efficient operations.

He called for a review and clearer designation of activity areas and project zones to facilitate investment planning and management, as well as a review of the organisational structure and staffing at checkpoints to strengthen coordination with Chinese counterparts.

The Prime Minister also instructed Electricité du Laos (EDL) and the zone developer to coordinate closely on electricity planning and ensure an adequate and reliable power supply for the zone.

He further called on the zone developer and the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare to work together to ensure sufficient labour, particularly domestic workers, in line with relevant laws and regulations.

The Prime Minister also instructed the authorities to accelerate repairs to damaged roads to improve transport and the movement of goods.

In addition, he directed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in coordination with relevant agencies, to improve entry and exit procedures for people, vehicles and other related matters to ensure smoother and more efficient operations at the zone

KPL