VIENTIANE: The government has set a target to attract 22 million foreign tourists over the next five years, with expected revenue of about US$8 billion.
The figure surpasses the 20.1 million foreign and Lao tourists who took trips in Laos over the past five years, reflecting the government’s ambition to further expand the tourism sector as a key driver of economic growth.
The target was announced by Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone when presenting a draft report on the ninth five-year National Socio-economic Development Plan for 2021-2025 and the tenth five-year National Socio-economic Development Plan for 2026-2030 at the twelfth National Congress of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party last week.
To achieve this target, Minister of Culture and Tourism Suanesavanh Vignaket said the ministry will focus on improving infrastructure at key tourist attractions across the country.
Another objective is to upgrade tourist sites to higher standards through the participation of government, businesses, and local communities, aiming to enhance the overall visitor experience.
The ministry also plans to build new tourist facilities and improve existing attractions along tourism routes linking provinces within Laos and between Lao provinces and adjoining provinces in neighbouring countries.
These initiatives will be implemented as part of closer Greater Mekong Subregion collaboration and other regional cooperation frameworks.
In addition, the ministry will take steps to improve the skills of tourism-related personnel so they deliver higher-quality services and meet international tourism standards.
The government’s tourism goals come amid growing international recognition of Laos as a cost-effective travel destination.
Indie Traveller magazine ranked Laos among its list of “26 Amazing Cheap Places You Should Travel to in 2026”, highlighting the country’s affordability and value for money.
According to the magazine, budget travellers in Laos spend an average of US$17-25 per day, while mid-range travellers spend around US$35-45, including accommodation, food and local transport.
The magazine also noted that Laos offers rich cultural experiences, diverse outdoor activities and improving tourism infrastructure, while continuing to retain its low-key rural charm.
This latest recognition adds to a series of international accolades Laos has received in recent years.
Destinations such as Luang Prabang, a Unesco World Heritage town, have been repeatedly named among Asia’s and the world’s top travel spots by leading publications including Travel+Leisure and Smart Travel Asia, while Laos has also attracted attention for its eco-tourism and community-based tourism initiatives. - Vientiane Times/ANN
