Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone.

PM urges Xekong to build self-reliant economy

The Prime Minister has urged Xekong province authorities to strengthen Party leadership and build a self-reliant economy by making full use of the province’s available resources and potential.
Speaking at the 11th Congress of the Xekong Provincial Party Committee on August 29, Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, who is also a Politburo member, said economic growth must remain the province’s priority, with swift action needed to tackle financial difficulties.
He called for stronger regional planning, the creation of development zones, and closer economic links to reduce dependency.
He also advised simplifying trade and production procedures to support businesses, families, and traders, while ensuring that tax collection and transport fees are fair and transparent.
The Deputy Governor of Xekong province, Mr Khanty Silavongsa, said the province’s economy grew at an average rate of 4.9 percent between 2021 and 2025, despite many challenges, the Lao News Agency reported.
Growth was recorded at 3.3 percent in 2021, 3.5 percent in 2022, 5.5 percent in 2023, 6 percent in 2024, and is estimated at 6.2 percent in 2025. Average GDP per capita has climbed to 24.25 million kip.
Looking ahead, Mr Khanty said Xekong aims for an average annual growth rate of 6 percent over the next five years, with targets of 6.4 percent for agriculture, 6.8 percent for industry, and 4.9 percent for services.
By 2030, the province expects average per capita income to increase to 32.13 million kip, equal to about US$1,488.
Dr Sonexay said Party committees at all levels must set a good example and work to keep unity strong. He urged leaders to teach people of all ethnic groups about patriotism and solidarity, and to be on the alert for groups trying to weaken unity or cause problems.
He also underlined the importance of improving education and healthcare, noting the need to reduce school dropouts, provide better medical treatment, and support those who have contributed to the nation in various ways. Relief for disaster victims and assistance for the poor must also be prioritised.
Developing a skilled workforce should be another key goal, the Prime Minister said, to meet the needs of the labour market and investment projects.
He added that wages in the public and private sectors should be fair and aligned with economic growth. He called for ongoing efforts in national defence and security, with a strong focus on encouraging Party members and citizens to uphold the law.
He called on the new Provincial Party Executive Committee to work with determination, strengthen unity, and drive meaningful change. Establishing new townships would help reinforce the political system, he said.
The Prime Minister also warned of challenges such as poverty, inequality, debt, corruption, and social problems, which could weaken people’s trust in the Party’s leadership.

By Times Reporters
(Latest Update September 2, 2025)