(KPL) In a milestone for border control modernization and public service delivery, the Ministry of Finance, the U.S. Embassy, and the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) today held a groundbreaking ceremony for a new Customs Headquarters and Training Center in Vientiane.

The new 5,000-square-meter, five-storey building will serve as the central hub for the Lao Department of Customs, integrating state-of-the-art facilities that are functional, inclusive, and climate-resilient. This initiative follows the successful completion of Phase 1, during which UNOPS designed the facility and constructed two secure warehouses for storing confiscated goods—strengthening customs enforcement capabilities.

Funded by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) and implemented by UNOPS, the project aims to enhance customs efficiency by providing modern infrastructure aligned with international best practices while reflecting local architectural identity.

U.S. Ambassador to the Lao PDR, Ms Heather Variava 

Once completed, the facility will house the Department’s Training, Investigation, and Legal Divisions, along with a training center capable of accommodating up to 200 staff. It is expected to become a national platform for customs training, operational excellence, and capacity development.

Speaking at the ceremony, U.S. Ambassador to the Lao PDR, Ms Heather Variava highlighted the facility’s role in strengthening institutional capacity. “This new headquarters and training center will empower Lao Customs to address transnational crime and facilitate lawful trade more effectively,” she said.

UN Resident Coordinator in the Lao PDR, Mr. Bakhodir Burkhanov 

UN Resident Coordinator in the Lao PDR Mr. Bakhodir Burkhanov emphasized the project’s long-term impact: “This is more than a building—it’s a strategic investment in governance, service delivery, and sustainable development.”

Director General of the Department of Customs Mr. Phoukhaokham Vanavongxay

Director General of the Department of Customs Mr. Phoukhaokham Vanavongxay expressed his hopes for the center’s future. “Customs plays a critical role in international trade. We aim to utilize this new training facility to elevate our workforce to meet global standards, serving the nation and its people more efficiently.”

UNOPS Director for South East Asia and Pacific, Ms. Samina Kadwani

UNOPS Director for South East Asia and Pacific, Ms. Samina Kadwani, added, “By combining responsible construction with a focus on sustainability, this project supports Laos’ broader governance and rule of law priorities under the National Socio-Economic Development Plan.”

The groundbreaking marks a major step toward equipping the Lao PDR with the infrastructure needed for effective border management, professional training, and international cooperation.

KPL