NA member for Xayaboury province, Mr Bounlorm Keobuahom.

NA members debate key economic and social issues

National Assembly members have urged the government to take stronger action to ease the rising cost of living and address key economic concerns affecting people’s daily lives.
During the 9th Ordinary Session of the 9th legislature on June 10, chaired by Vice President of the National Assembly (NA) Sounthone Xayachack, members debated the government’s report on the National Socio-Economic Development Plan, state budget and monetary plan for the first half of 2025, and the direction for the rest of the year.
Members said that while the government reported positive economic indicators, many people continue to struggle with high living costs, rising prices, and limited incomes.
The average inflation rate over the first five months of 2025 stood at 11.76 percent, down from 24.77 percent in the same period last year. In May, inflation dropped to 8.3 percent, the first time it fell to single digits since May 2022.
Member for Savannakhet province, Mr Xayadeth Ouyavong, said the recent rise in electricity prices is placing pressure on families and businesses.
He said the cost hike could lead to higher production costs, putting some companies at risk of closure and weakening state revenue rather than increasing it.
The government recently restructured electricity prices to align with the operational realities of Electricity du Laos (EDL)
Lawmakers also raised concerns over the rise in foreign-owned development projects that fail to meet basic standards.
Member for Attapeu province, Ms Minaphone Saysomphou, said some projects had begun without proper feasibility studies or environmental and social impact assessments being carried out.
She said weak oversight had allowed some developers to bypass the law and ignore the concerns of local communities.
Lawmakers also asked the government to review substandard mining operations that harm the environment. Some companies have discharged untreated wastewater, raising serious public health concerns.
They said mining firms that do not meet legal standards should be ordered to stop operations and not merely face suspension.
Members also debated the government’s reform plan for state-owned enterprises. A proposal for Chinese aircraft maker COMAC to hold a 51 percent stake in a joint venture with Lao Airlines raised concerns over foreign control of key national assets.
A member for Vientiane, Ms Valy Vetsaphong, said debt relief could be achieved through better management.
She said Lao Airlines could still be viable if skilled executives were hired and allowed to run the company without interference.
Labour shortages were another key concern. Ms Valy said the lack of workers is hurting domestic businesses and called for urgent talks between the government and the private sector to find practical solutions.
In 2024, more than 139,000 people registered for employment. Only 11,464 applied for jobs within Laos, while over 128,000 people sought work abroad to earn higher incomes.
Members also called for a faster response to staff shortages in education and healthcare, especially in rural areas.
They said teachers and health workers are vital to the country’s development and urged better planning in the replacement of retiring or departing staff.
NA members also debated other important issues, including road construction, declining student numbers, public service delivery, etc.

By Times Reporters
 (Latest Update June 11, 2025)