A senior Lao official has been appointed to a leading position within the country’s investment authority, as part of a broader organisational restructuring.

Phonvanh Outhavong has been named Vice Minister of Finance and Standing Vice Chairperson of the Investment Promotion and Management Committee (IPMC), according to an official announcement made during a ceremony held in Vientiane on 24 March.

The event was presided over by Saleumxay Kommasith, who also serves as Standing Chairperson of the IPMC. It was attended by senior representatives from multiple ministries, including finance, industry and commerce, agriculture and forestry, public works and transport, national defence, and public security.

The appointments were formally presented by Souliya Phommisith of the Party’s Central Organising Committee.

In addition to Ms Outhavong’s appointment, Vanthana Norlintha was named Standing Member and Head of the IPMC Office.

Both appointments form part of wider efforts to strengthen the committee’s structure and improve coordination across government sectors responsible for investment policy.

In remarks delivered at the ceremony, Mr Saleumxay congratulated the newly appointed officials, stating that their selection reflected the confidence placed in them by senior leadership.

He outlined key priorities for the committee moving forward, including improving administrative efficiency, strengthening coordination with relevant sectors, and enhancing oversight of investment projects.

The Deputy Prime Minister also emphasised the importance of building a more self-reliant economy, alongside efforts to modernise systems through digital tools and improve the professional capacity of staff to better attract both domestic and foreign investment.

KPL