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The Lao PDR underscored key national priorities and shared its tourism achievements at the 29th ASEAN Tourism Ministers Meeting (ATF 2026), held from January 25–31, 2026, in Cebu, Philippines, under the theme “Navigating Our Tourism Future, Together.” Ms. Suansavanh Viyaket, Minister of Culture and Tourism, led the Lao delegation in discussions that shaped the region’s tourism agenda.
At the forum, Ms. Suansavanh presented Laos’ progress in rebuilding the tourism sector, emphasizing sustainable recovery, expanded market linkages, and improved service quality following the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. She highlighted Laos’ contribution to wider ASEAN tourism targets, focusing on human resource development, community-based tourism, and the integration of tourism with cultural heritage preservation.
Ms. Suansavanh outlined the Lao PDR’s efforts to Promote Quality Tourism Development: Strengthening standards in accommodation, hospitality, tour services, and cultural attractions to match ASEAN tourism quality benchmarks.
Enhance Regional Connectivity: Advancing cross-border travel facilitation and partnerships with neighboring countries to boost tourist flows into the Greater Mekong Subregion.
Expand Tourism Markets: Participating in international tourism fairs and leveraging digital platforms to attract visitors from ASEAN and beyond, particularly in emerging markets.
Support Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs): Encouraging local tourism businesses to adopt quality standards and access regional networks through capacity-building and public-private cooperation.
In addition, Ms. Suansavanh reaffirmed Laos’ support for the newly approved ASEAN Tourism Strategic Plan 2026–2030 and the ASEAN Tourism Marketing Strategy 2026–2030, pledging that the Lao PDR will actively participate in regional implementation efforts, especially in areas of tourism human resource training and market promotion.
Laos also showcased initiatives at the ASEAN Tourism Exhibition (TRAVEX–ATF 2026), where Lao tourism enterprises promoted national tourism products, including cultural site visits, eco-tourism packages, and community-based experiences. The event provided Lao vendors with opportunities to connect with over 400 buyers and sellers from across the region and the world.
Ms. Suansavanh concluded that by strengthening cooperation with ASEAN partners, enhancing service quality, and mobilizing both public and private resources, the Lao PDR aims to accelerate tourism recovery and contribute to sustainable regional tourism growth.
KPL
