Laos: Authorities ease lockdown measures in Luang Prabang city as of Nov. 1 /update 1

Event

Laos has eased ongoing lockdown restrictions in Luang Prabang city as of Nov. 1. Officials will remove most checkpoints within the city, except for those at Ban Phonexay, Ban Kok Ngiew, Ban Sangkhalok, and the central ferry pier to enforce entry and exit rules. Interdistrict travel is allowed. Interprovincial travel remains prohibited; exemptions are likely in place for essential tasks such as transporting cargo or government work approved by the COVID-19 task force. A nightly 22:00-04:00 curfew remains in place. Office employees may return to work on-site. Supermarkets and retail shops outside red zones may reopen but must close by 21:00. Restaurants may also reopen but cannot sell alcohol. Delivery services may resume with health protocols in place. Entertainment venues like bars and night markets, among others, must remain closed.

Officials continue to categorize districts into red, yellow, and green zones in decreasing order of strictness of measures. Authorities limit the entry and exit of people into red zones unless they have official clearance.

Heightened security measures are likely across Luang Prabang City to ensure compliance with the latest restrictions. Business and transport disruptions may continue. Additional extensions are possible, depending on COVID-19 activity.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.