A consultative meeting to establish the Women’s Tourism Business Network of Luang Prabang Province was convened on 12 February 2026.

The session was presided over by Mrs Soudaphone Khanthavong, Head of the Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism, with representatives from various departments, associations, and stakeholders in the tourism sector in attendance.

During the meeting, Mrs Soudaphone highlighted the significant number of female entrepreneurs currently operating within Luang Prabang’s tourism sector. She noted that their active participation across various associations under the Department’s remit demonstrates the vital role and capability of women in the local economy.

The primary objective of the gathering was to introduce the conceptual framework for the network. Once established, the body is intended to serve as a crucial bridge between the public sector and female-led businesses.

This collaboration aims to ensure that provincial development plans align with the practical needs of the private sector, while simultaneously strengthening professional relationships among female entrepreneurs.

Furthermore, the initiative seeks to guarantee that women receive equitable benefits and achieve a status of leadership and influence equal to that of their male counterparts.

Key discussions at the meeting focused on capacity building - identifying business requirements such as skills development and vocational training and strategic support - outlining project-based assistance to transform Luang Prabang into a national model for women’s business networks.

Delegates also received a briefing on the Urban Environment Improvement Investment Project (UEIIP) for Luang Prabang. The establishment of this network is a cornerstone of the UEIIP’s 2026–2030 strategy.

Funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the project aims to foster environmental improvements alongside the empowerment of female leadership within the community.

The meeting concluded with participants contributing their views on the proposed roadmap and implementation plans to ensure the long-term success of the network.

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KPL