Minister of Industry and Commerce Malaythong Kommasith delivers remarks at the networking reception for Japanese companies in Vientiane on Aug 26, 2024

(KPL) Japanese Ambassador to Laos Koizumi Tsutomu hosted in Vientiane on August 26 a networking reception aimed at fostering investment in Laos’ manufacturing sector. The event attracted over 30 representatives from Japanese companies based in Thailand, Cambodia, and China, as well as those already operating in Laos.

Lao government officials and local businesses also attended.

The Japanese business delegation, organized by the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) Vientiane, is on a mission to explore investment prospects in Laos’ key economic zones, including VITA Park Special Economic Zone, Saysettha Special Economic Zone, Pakse-Japan SME Special Economic Zone, and Thanaleng Dry Port. 

Japanese Ambassador to Laos Koizumi Tsutomudelivers remarks at the networking reception for Japanese companies in Vientiane on Aug 26, 2024

An increasing number of Japanese companies are eyeing Laos for business opportunities, particularly in the manufacturing, logistics, agriculture, and related service industries. The Lao government has made attracting foreign investment a top priority, highlighting the country's political stability, youthful workforce, and strategic location near major economies like China and Thailand.

Speaking at the event, Minister of Industry and Commerce Malaythong Kommasith emphasized Laos’ growing appeal to foreign investors. “Laos offers a politically stable environment, a young and dynamic workforce, proximity to large markets, and significant growth in the logistics and connectivity sectors making it more attractive for foreign investment,” he said.

A representative from Gas One Lao Co., Ltd., a joint venture company in the Saysettha Special Economic Zone, shared his experience of starting a business in Laos. “Five years ago, we began producing liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in Saysettha SEZ. Today, our gas is supplied to over 730 businesses nationwide. I’m attending this event because I’m interested in expanding our operations to Pakse,” he stated. 

Group photo of key participants of the networking reception for Japanese companies in Vientiane on Aug 26, 2024

Mr. Hasui Yoshifumi, President of Tokutake Industry, a leading producer of shoes for the elderly and those with special needs, expressed his interest in expanding his company’s operations to Laos. “We currently have a factory in China, but Laos presents a promising opportunity. That’s why I joined this JETRO-organized mission—to explore the potential for establishing a factory here,” he said.

JETRO Vientiane Project Coordinator Phouvieng Kongsyharath mentioned that this was the fourth investment mission organized since the COVID-19 pandemic. “We plan to organize another mission in October to help Japanese companies explore zero emission business opportunities,” she noted.

Among the Japanese companies represented at the event were AGC Flat Glass, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation, JPC, Kashima Manufacturing Co., Ltd., Saisan, Tokutake Industry Co., Ltd., and KANEKO Manufacturing Co., Ltd.

KPL