(KPL)  The Lao PDR has outlined four key measures to address rising fuel prices and supply challenges during the Special ASEAN Ministers on Energy Meeting, held Monday via an online platform.

The meeting was chaired by Manothong Vongsay, Vice Minister of Industry and Commerce, who represented Laos at the regional forum. Also in attendance were Santisouk Phimmasane, ASEAN Senior Officer on Energy for Lao PDR and Director General of the Policy and Planning Department, along with representatives from Ministry of Industry and Commerce Laos, Electricite du Laos, and the Lao State Fuel Company.

The meeting focused on the impact of the evolving situation in the Middle East on regional energy security. Participants from ASEAN+3 countries and development partners discussed the growing risks to fuel supply and pricing stability.

Member states noted that Southeast Asia relies heavily on oil and gas imports from the Middle East. As a result, the region is facing supply chain disruptions and continued increases in global fuel prices.

ASEAN countries shared their national responses based on their energy capacities. These include diversifying sources of fuel imports, increasing strategic reserves, and implementing price control measures to protect domestic markets.

The meeting also emphasized the importance of strengthening regional cooperation through existing frameworks, including the ASEAN Petroleum Security Agreement, the ASEAN Power Grid, and the Trans-ASEAN Gas Pipeline. Participants agreed to enhance data sharing and improve coordinated emergency response mechanisms.

As a landlocked country that depends heavily on imported fuel, Lao PDR is particularly vulnerable to global energy fluctuations.

In his remarks, Manothong Vongsay outlined four key measures being implemented by the government to mitigate the impact:

First, the government is reducing import duties on fuel to help stabilize domestic prices.

Second, authorities are promoting the use of alternative energy sources within the country to reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels.

Third, the government is introducing shift-rotation work arrangements for public sector employees to reduce commuting and fuel consumption.

Fourth, public awareness campaigns are being launched to encourage energy conservation. These efforts include promoting the use of electric vehicles and increasing reliance on public transportation.

Lao PDR reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening regional energy cooperation. The country plans to expand electricity grid interconnections and study regional fuel supply chain mechanisms to ensure long-term energy stability

KPL