VIENTIANE: The government is weighing fresh measures to curb inflation and manage economic spillovers from global tensions, with these issues topping the agenda at the government’s April cabinet meeting on Monday (April 28).
The two-day meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, brings together deputy prime ministers, cabinet ministers and the chairman of the Vientiane Administration Committee, while provincial leaders from across the country are taking part via video link.
Participants are reviewing key developments in April and setting priorities for May as Laos works toward fulfilling the goals outlined in the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party’s 12th Congress Resolution and the government’s 10th five-year National Socio-Economic Development Plan.
The meeting comes as regional and global conditions remain volatile, with ongoing conflicts, particularly in the Middle East, adding pressure to an already fragile global economy.
Officials say the situation has driven up prices, including for transport, and led to broader economic strain, with direct implications for price stability and citizens’ livelihoods.
Discussions are expected to focus on inflation, exchange rate management and cost-of-living pressures, alongside implementation of Prime Ministerial Order No. 40 aimed at preventing a fuel shortage and encouraging greater use of electric vehicles and more reliance on renewable sources of energy.
With regard to infrastructure and environmental issues, the government is reviewing progress on road repairs, the response to recent hailstorms, and preparations for possible drought conditions. Authorities are also considering measures to address wildfires, deforestation and shifting cultivation, as well as improve poor air quality, especially that caused by PM2.5 pollution.
In terms of public safety, officials are taking stock of the number of accidents, fires and social issues reported during the recent Lao New Year holiday.
The cabinet will further deliberate the draft of a 10-year capital market development strategy for 2026-2035 with a longer-term vision to 2045, a decree on the withdrawal of land use rights, and a draft decree establishing a fund for HIV/AIDS prevention and control.
Prime Minister Sonexay called on ministers and provincial leaders to provide candid, concise and solution-oriented recommendations, stressing the need for practical measures that can be implemented effectively to advance socio-economic development and improve living standards. - Vientiane Times/ANN
