VIENTIANE (Vientiane Times/ANN): Laos is eyeing closer links with international gold markets to build on the Lao Bullion Bank’s growing reputation, with the opening of the Lao Gold Festival 2026 in Vientiane at the weekend.
The three-day festival attracted about 100,000 visitors. It brings together business operators, investors, financial institutions, industry representatives and members of the public to showcase Lao gold products, explore commercial opportunities, and foster closer cooperation across the sector.
Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone chaired the opening ceremony at the National Convention Centre, which was attended by senior government officials, representatives of ministries, state organisations, diplomatic missions, international organisations, chambers of commerce, gold associations, financial institutions and businesses, and guests from Laos and abroad.
The festival builds on the success of the first edition in 2025, with this year’s event placing greater emphasis on raising industry standards, expanding commercial opportunities and forging stronger international partnerships across the gold sector.
The event is organised by Lao Bullion Bank in collaboration with the Lao Gold, Jewellery and Gemstone Association, the Lao Handicraft Association, government agencies, private sector organisations, and domestic and international partners.
Held under the theme “Lao Gold to the World – Elevating the Lao Gold Industry through Connectivity and Collaboration, Building Trust and Growing Together”, the fair seeks to enhance the quality and competitiveness of Lao gold products while promoting greater transparency, strengthening consumer confidence, and widening access to regional and international markets.
Delivering a report at the opening ceremony, Chief Executive Officer of Lao Bullion Bank Co., Ltd. Dr Chanthone Sitthixay said the festival went beyond being an exhibition of gold and jewellery, describing it as a platform for connecting Laos’ gold market with the global gold industry.
He said participants would explore avenues for cooperation, trade and investment and help shape a more dynamic and competitive future for the Lao gold industry.
The exhibition features gold bars, gold sculptures and carvings, gold jewellery, Lao handicrafts, and financial and investment innovations related to gold showcased by leading domestic and international businesses.
The programme also features conferences, keynote addresses and expert discussions covering a range of topics, including the potential for Laos to emerge as a new gold hub in ASEAN, the future of the Lao economy and gold bullion industry, the role of gold in household financial security, gold and ASEAN cultural identity, design and brand development rooted in Lao gold heritage, and gold investment in the digital era.
Visitors can also enjoy a gold and Lao silk fashion show, product and service launches, gold prize draws and other activities aimed at raising public awareness and understanding of gold and its value.
The organisers said the event would help showcase the potential of Laos’ gold sector, strengthen the country’s profile in international markets, and contribute to its ambition to establish itself as a regional centre for gold-related trade, services and investment within Asean.
Following the opening ceremony, Prime Minister Sonexay and other senior officials toured the exhibition halls and viewed products and displays presented by participating businesses and organisations. -- Vientiane Times/ANN
