VIENTIANE: Laos is stepping up tourism promotion efforts by expanding marketing channels, upgrading visitor information services and strengthening cooperation with domestic and international partners to attract more visitors and support the long-term growth of the tourism industry.
The plans were outlined in a report presented by Director General of the Tourism Marketing and Promotion Department, Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Mrs Manisakhone Thammavongxay, at a meeting on tourism development held in Vientiane recently.
The meeting was chaired by Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism Mrs Darany Phommavongsa and attended by tourism operators and government officials.
According to the report, Laos will promote its tourist attractions through Lao social media platforms, tourism websites, influencers, tourism advertising agents and Lao embassies abroad. The country will also increase its presence at regional and international tourism fairs to reach more potential visitors.
The report also highlighted plans to upgrade tourism information centres throughout the country to provide tourists with clear and up-to-date information and improve tourism services.
The Ministry of Culture and Tourism is seeking government approval for the Visit Laos-China Year programme, which aims to attract more Chinese and other foreign tourists to visit destinations along the Laos-China Railway while celebrating the 65th anniversary of Laos-China diplomatic relations.
From 2026 to 2030, tourism authorities will focus on studying the potential of the tourism market, expanding promotional campaigns to reach more target groups, organising and participating in tourism exhibitions at home and abroad, and strengthening cooperation with ASEAN member countries, trading partners and international organisations.
Speaking at the meeting, Mrs Darany said tourism is an important source of revenue and a key pillar of Laos' socio-economic development.
She said tourism contributes to economic growth through a broad service chain, creates jobs and generates income for local people. She added that the sector has gained a stronger presence in the regional and global arena in recent years.
Mrs Darany also highlighted the contribution of the private sector in developing quality tourism products and promoting Laos' attractions worldwide, encouraging more people to experience the country's natural, cultural and historical features.
