(From left to right) the wife of President Thongloun Sisoulith, Mrs Naly Sisoulith; Deputy Prime Minister Prof. Dr Kikeo Khaykhamphithoune; CEO of Lao Bullion Bank Co., Ltd. (LBB), Dr Chanthone Sithixay; and President of the Lao Gold, Jewellery and Gems Association, Mr Phouvong Phamisith, jointly cut the ribbon to officially open the Lao Gold Festival on Friday.

Laos Gold Festival opens, marking new era in nation’s gold industry

The inaugural Laos Gold Festival officially opened on Friday at the National Convention Centre in Vientiane, heralding a new chapter for the Lao gold industry and its contribution to the country’s socio-economic and cultural development.
The three-day festival, taking place from September 5-7, brings together prominent figures from both the public and private sectors, as well as international stakeholders, to spotlight gold as a powerful economic driver and a symbol of cultural heritage.
The opening ceremony was attended by high-ranking leaders including Deputy Prime Minister Prof. Dr Kikeo Khaykhamphithoune; the wife of President Thongloun Sisoulith, Mrs Naly Sisoulith; Minister of Finance Mr Santiphab Phomvihane; Governor of the Bank of the Lao PDR, Mrs Bounkham Vorachit; CEO of Lao Bullion Bank Co., Ltd. (LBB), Dr Chanthone Sithixay; and Chairman of the Singapore Bullion Market Association, Mr KL Yap.
Other top government officials, industry representatives, and business leaders from Laos and abroad were also in attendance.

The event carries added significance as it coincides with three landmark national anniversaries, namely the 70th anniversary of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party, the 50th anniversary of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, and the 105th anniversary of the birth of the late President Kaysone Phomvihane.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, the CEO of Lao Bullion Bank Co., Ltd (LBB), Dr Chanthone Sitthixay, said the festival is a significant event for the Lao gold industry. “It is designed not only to elevate the Lao gold industry to international standards, but also to inspire innovation, encourage public engagement, and highlight gold’s dual role as an economic asset and a cultural symbol,” he said.
The use of and image of gold has a long history in Laos, mainly as a symbol of wealth and social status.
“Gold is not only a symbol of Lao heritage but also a symbol of the richness of the country’s underground resources, which will contribute to the nation’s economic development,” Dr Chanthone said.

“The Laos Gold Festival is not just an exhibition, but a landmark event that brings together all sectors of society to foster collaboration and chart a sustainable future for the gold industry,” he added.
The festival has a clear determination and vision to create a platform that links Lao gold producers with the gold market, both domestically and internationally, and to promote investment in the gold industry.
The event features a dynamic programme that includes industry forums, exhibitions, business networking opportunities, and cultural showcases.
It provides a a platform for knowledge exchange, commercial partnerships, and public education on the gold sector’s potential in Laos.
Key participants include PTL Holding Company Co., Ltd., the Singapore Bullion Market Association, the Lao Gold, Jewellery and Gemstone Association, and Sithi Logistics Co., Ltd., reflecting the strong and growing international interest in the Lao gold market.
With gold playing an increasingly important role in the national economy, the Laos Gold Festival is a timely initiative to support the sector’s sustainable growth while celebrating its enduring place in Lao heritage and identity.

The festival is expected to spur the growth of the gold industry, raise standards, and create new business opportunities.
About 30,000 visitors are expected to attend, the event organising committee said.
Dr Chanthone, who is the Chairman of the Laos Gold Festival 2025 Organising Committee, said the festival will become an annual event to support the growth of the gold industry, and will also be an occasion to promote tourism and generally support the development of Laos.
Exhibitions and showcases will highlight new designs and modern production methods, encouraging businesses to adapt to changing consumer demands.
The festival will serve as a platform for knowledge exchange, skills development, and the promotion of young talent in the industry.
One of the highlights will be a seminar where experts will discuss market trends, investment opportunities, and strategies for sustainable industry growth.
The festival features more than 50 gold exhibitor booths and 15 silk booths, showcasing both traditional and contemporary designs.
A joint gold and silk fashion show will demonstrate the creativity and beauty of Lao craftsmanship, while business networking events will connect entrepreneurs, investors, and international partners.
The Laos Gold Festival will create a foundation for stronger industry growth while combining economic development with cultural preservation. It will also position Laos as a rising player in the regional gold market and contribute to long-term socio-economic development, Dr Chanthone said.

By Times Reporters
(Latest Update September 7, 2025)