Speaking at a meeting in Champasak Province on July 23, Sonexay reviewed progress on the national socio-economic development plan for the first half of 2026 and discussed a regional development strategy for Champasak, Saravane, Sekong, and Attapeu to strengthen economic links with neighboring countries.
The meeting brought together ministers, provincial leaders, and representatives from relevant agencies to assess development priorities and identify measures for the remainder of the year.
The Prime Minister called for stronger national defense and public security, intensified action against social problems, and comprehensive rural development. He urged the southern provinces to capitalize on the Bolaven Plateau's agricultural potential by modernizing production, expanding processing industries, and developing internationally recognized brands for export.

He also stressed the importance of shifting from raw mineral exports to domestic processing, expanding hydropower, solar and wind energy projects, promoting electric vehicles, and improving tourism services with an emphasis on safety and sustainability.
Sonexay further called for the development of dry ports, cold storage facilities, and more efficient border procedures to strengthen the region's role as a trade and logistics hub.
He also urged Champasak University and vocational institutions to produce more skilled workers and entrepreneurs while upgrading regional healthcare services to reduce the need for overseas medical treatment.