VIENTIANE: Australia is strengthening trade and investment with Laos, with a focus on agriculture, mining, and other sectors that support sustainable growth.
This effort comes as Australia’s Business Champion for Laos, Charles Olsson, visits the country from Sept 30 to Oct 3.
Olsson is meeting government and business leaders to build partnerships and expand two-way trade. He is also hosting a roundtable on how Australian livestock feed companies can support the growth of the Lao livestock industry.
He is scheduled to meet Lao graduates of Australian universities to recognise their contribution to development and strengthen the Lao-Australian alumni network.
This was his second visit to Laos this year, reflecting Australia’s growing interest in trade and investment. He added that Laos offers great potential for cooperation in clean energy, sustainable agriculture, food systems, and responsible mining.
“Australia sees significant potential to collaborate with Laos in areas such as clean energy, sustainable agriculture, food systems, and responsible mining,” he was quoted as saying.
“This visit is an important opportunity to build relationships and identify practical ways Australian businesses can contribute to Laos’ economic development.”
He also took part in the Asean Minerals Investment Forum on Oct 2-3, joining regional leaders and private sector partners to discuss sustainable mining and new investment opportunities in South-East Asia, where Australia has a strong base.
Olsson’s earlier visit in March included travel to Savannakhet province, where he visited the Savan-Xeno Special Economic Zone and a blueberry farm established by Costa, one of Australia’s largest horticulture companies.
That trip focused on identifying investment opportunities and engaging with developers and investors, built on the sound cooperation between both countries.
Australian companies have invested in mining, forestry, banking and tourism in Laos, contributing innovation, international best practices and new jobs to the local economy. Australia also serves as a stable market for Lao exports, particularly gold, telecommunications equipment and electrical machinery.
The visit is part of the Australia-Laos Comprehensive Partnership and Australia’s South-East Asia Economic Strategy to 2040, which aims to deepen regional trade and investment links. - Vientiane Times/ANN
