Food prices affect families in Laos despite easing inflation

Prices of goods at local markets continue to rise, affecting livelihoods of local people. - VT

VIENTIANE (Vientiane Times/Asia News Network): Skyrocketing inflation has forced many Lao families to cut spending on food, health and education to ensure their income keeps pace with the rising cost of living in the country, according to a new World Bank survey.

In Round 7 of the World Bank’s Rapid Monitoring Phone Surveys, conducted during June-July 2023, 87 per cent of households said they are somewhat or significantly affected by inflation. To cope, most reported growing or gathering more food, switching to cheaper food, or reducing the amount they eat.