Laos Country Report

Laos is a developing country in Southeast Asia. The Lao People's Revolutionary Party (LPRP) has established itself as the only major political force in the communist state since the end of a civil war, solidifying its control in both public and private spheres. There are also no known threats to the current leadership, and it is unlikely there will be a sudden regime change in the immediate-to-medium term.

Terrorism and crime pose little threat in the country and there is a nominal threat of civil and labor unrest. However, there is an ongoing low-level armed conflict in the northern region due to the Hmong-led insurgency. Corruption and a weak rule of law are likely to have a significant impact on business activity.

Many regions of Laos are vulnerable to powerful earthquakes and storm systems. In addition, the country is susceptible to aberrant weather patterns due to El Nino and La Nina. Healthcare is limited, and most pharmacies are unauthorized and sell counterfeit drugs.

There is a credible threat of conflict, although affected areas are limited to the northern region. Crime threat in urban centers is mainly petty and opportunistic, whilst banditry is a concern in rural areas. The threat of terrorism and civil unrest is considered to be very low.

There are some safety concerns over air travel in Laos.

Traffic in Laos is heavy and road conditions are generally poor. Few roads have lane markings.

Laos has no seaports.

Internet connection speeds are among the slowest in Southeast Asia, although electricity supply and mobile network coverage are considered adequate and fairly reliable, notably in urban centers.

Cybercrime is also not a major threat, although the risk is likely to increase as more people become connected with the Internet.

Laos is susceptible to various environmental- and manmade-related hazards. Powerful storm systems are known to affect Bokeo, Luangprabang, Xayabury and Sekong provinces during the monsoon season, which typically runs from late April to October. Landmines pose a considerable threat in certain rural areas.

Laos has several disease and health threats, including vector-borne diseases like dengue fever and water-borne diseases like cholera. Health services are limited and are more accessible in urban centers. However, essential health services are accessible and available nationwide. Cash payment is required upfront for all services rendered. Specialist health services and emergency services require travel to Australia or Thailand. Tap water is unsafe for consumption.

The Lao People’s Revolutionary Party (LPRP) has been the only major political force since independence, and there are no known threats to existing leadership. However, issues relating to corruption and weak rule of law are a credible concern in the country.