Australian Ambassador to Laos Megan Jones (second from right) visits Savannakhet province. –Photo Australia Embassy to Laos

Laos, Australia strengthen economic ties

Laos and Australia are cooperating to advance their trade and investment ties as part of Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy.   
The Australian Ambassador to Laos, Ms Megan Jones, visited Savannakhet province during March 25-26 to promote deeper trade and investment ties.
Ms Jones visited Savan-Xeno Special Economic Zone and discussed opportunities for strengthening the cooperation between SEZ stakeholders and Australian businesses. 
The Ambassador highlighted the potential for Australian investment in the SEZ, especially in logistics and agriculture as well as building connections with key businesses in the province, according to the Australian Embassy in Laos.
Mr Charles Olsson, Australia’s Business Champion for Laos, joined the Ambassador to learn about opportunities for investing in Laos and connecting with developers and investors in the SEZ.
In addition, the visit provided an opportunity for Mr Olsson to explore the investment landscape in the SEZ, its policies, and ongoing and future development projects. 
The Ambassador underscored Australia’s commitment to deepen two-way trade and investment, focusing on business opportunities in the agriculture, natural resources and green energy sectors in Laos. 
Furthermore, the Ambassador reiterated Australia’s interest in understanding the unique challenges and opportunities in Savannakhet’s investment environment, underlining the importance of public-private collaboration in furthering regional economic growth and investment. 
During the visit, Ms Jones also met Mrs Lingthong Sengtavan, the Vice Governor of Savannakhet province, to discuss strengthening Australia-Laos cooperation and people-to-people connections.
The visit provided an opportunity for Mr Olsson to meet Australia’s alumni in the local business community and members of the Savannakhet Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Young Entrepreneur Association of Laos, and to understand their roles in supporting businesses in Savannakhet province.
Laos and Australia have cooperated in many sectors such as an Australia-funded blueberry farm in Champassak.
Agriculture is central to Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy-2040, with investments aimed at strengthening food production and rural employment.

By Times Reporters
 (Latest Update March 27, 2025)