Dr Xaysomphone Phomvihane delivers the closing remarks on the last day of the National Assembly sitting.

NA urges swift action on economic issues at closing session

The National Assembly (NA) has called on the government to take urgent steps to ease the economic hardship faced by people, especially high inflation, soaring electricity prices, and the spiralling cost of essential consumer goods.
The call came at the close of the 9th Ordinary Session of the NA’s 9th Legislature on June 26 after running since June 9. 
Chaired by NA President Dr Xaysomphone Phomvihane, lawmakers stressed the need to adjust the salaries and allowances paid to civil servants, the police, and military personnel.
Members also pushed for stronger support to improve living standards of the people amid high living costs, despite declining inflation.
A government report presented during the session indicated that the average inflation rate over the first five months of 2025 fell to 11.76 percent, down from 24.77 percent during the same period in 2024.
But lawmakers said this figure remained high and continued to affect people’s everyday lives.
They highlighted improved access to affordable electricity, water, and basic goods as a top priority.
Concerns were raised over the recent remarkable rise in electricity prices, which lawmakers said was an added burden for households and businesses.
“The session proposed that the government adjust the electricity pricing structure as it has a direct impact on society and small and medium enterprises,” Dr Xaysomphone told the closing session.
President Thongloun Sisoulith, Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, other senior Party and state leaders, and members of the government cabinet were also in attendance.
The biannual session noted economic growth over the first half of 2025, with Gross Domestic Product (GDP) expanding by 4.5 percent. Agriculture grew by 3.3 percent, industry by 4.6 percent, services by 4.7 percent, and tax revenue by 4.4 percent.
The NA stressed the need to support all sectors, with a strong focus on agriculture, to reduce imports and achieve the GDP growth target of 4.8 percent for 2025.
Lawmakers approved a resolution on the urgent repair of damaged roads to improve passenger and freight transport, support tourism, and lower the cost of trade and services.
They also called for more decisive efforts to address social problems, including drug abuse, human trafficking, illegal trade, poorly managed entertainment venues, and school dropout rates.
Improvement of education and health services remains a key concern, with members urging the recruitment of more teachers and medical personnel, better employee management, and stronger road safety measures.
The Assembly also demanded tighter control over mining operations. All new mineral exploration projects are to be suspended, except those related to stone needed for construction purposes. Inefficient or underperforming ventures ranked in categories C and C+ must be revoked or suspended.
No compensation should be given to companies whose contracts are terminated for failing to comply with regulations.
Members emphasised the need for greater investment in education and healthcare.
Lawmakers also approved a key amendment to the Income Tax Law. The changes exempt non-profit micro-enterprises from tax and introduce tax cuts for companies listed on the stock exchange.
Drafts of five new laws were adopted, relating to People’s Prosecutors, Social Welfare, Cultivation, General Education, and Cybersecurity.
Lawmakers also approved amendments to four laws on Medicines and Medical Products, Irrigation, Signage, and the People’s Courts.
Over the 14-day session, the Assembly adopted four key reports related to the government’s work plan, road development strategy, electricity pricing, and efforts to promote nationwide awareness of the laws.

By Phonepaseuth Volakhoun
 (Latest Update June 27, 2025)