Deputy PM outlines path for tourism growth

The government has called on tourism authorities to invest in infrastructure, develop new tourism products, improve marketing and services, do more to ensure security, and adopt new technologies.
Deputy Prime Minister Prof. Dr Kikeo Khaykhamphithoune gave the advice at meeting held on Wednesday to evaluate the Visit Laos Year 2024 programme.

Deputy Prime Minister Prof. Dr Kikeo Khaykhamphithoune.

The initiative was deemed a success, with tourist numbers surpassing 7.4 million, generating revenue of more than US$1,540 million.
“However, to ensure that tourism is sustainable, authorities must formulate strategic plans for development of the sector and set out short-, medium- and long-term plans with a clear development focus and goals for each phase,” Prof. Dr Kikeo said.
“We must invest more in infrastructure, develop better transport systems with the participation of all sectors of society, expand and improve accommodation, and improve telecommunications, visitor facilities, and food services.”
“Authorities should also improve the natural landscape, place a greater focus on Laos’ historical and cultural heritage and other tourist resources, as well as protecting the environment and Laos’ inheritance,” he added.
Marketing campaigns should be carried out through a variety of channels to emphasise Laos’ special characteristics and create a unique brand, supported by all economic and social sectors to further promote tourism, he advised.
The Deputy PM also urged tourism authorities to improve the quality of services, and provide more training for tour guides and tourism-related businesses.
Events and activities unique to Laos should be developed, and industry standards raised to international levels, as well as ensuring that tourists’ rights are safeguarded, he said.
He advised the government to device incentives for tourism business operators and developers in the form of tax breaks, access to funding, subsidies, and other policies.
Other advice included bolstering agricultural and industrial production to meet the needs of the tourism industry and to make more use of technology, especially in online booking systems and payments through local banks.
Prof. Dr Kikeo also said it was essential to provide more security at popular tourist destinations to ensure safety for visitors, and to provide prompt emergency assistance when necessary.
Leaders and authorities at the central and provincial levels of government should forge closer links to drive tourism with a focus on green and sustainable development.
These measures would serve to enhance tourism and make a strong contribution to economic growth, the Deputy Prime Minister said.
During the Visit Laos Year 2024, Laos recorded more than 3.3 million domestic tourists, up by 90 percent compared to 2023, and generated more than US$ 540 million in revenue, while more than 4.1 million foreign tourists made trips to Laos, up by 21 percent and generated more than US$ 1 billion kip.

By Times Reporters
 (Latest Update February 6, 2025)