Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone and his wife (centre) attend the Lao Gold Festival 2026 at the National Convention Centre in Vientiane, joined by the President of the Lao Gold, Jewellery and Gemstone Association, Mr Phouvong Phamisith, and senior officials.

Lao gold industry sets sights on global recognition

After decades of development, Laos’ gold industry is looking towards a new stage of growth, with stronger branding, greater cooperation and closer links with tourism seen as key to turning Lao gold into a recognised product in international markets.
In a recent interview with the Vientiane Times, the President of the Lao Gold, Jewellery and Gemstone Association, Mr Phouvong Phamisith, outlined his vision for developing the sector into a stronger industry that can create more opportunities for Lao businesses and households while giving Lao gold greater recognition in international markets.

President of the Lao Gold, Jewellery and Gemstone Association, Mr Phouvong Phamisith, gives a presentation on brand development inspired by Lao gold heritage and traditional silk during the Lao Gold Festival 2026.

Mr Phouvong said the Lao gold business has developed considerably over the years. From a market that once had just over 100 shops selling gold items, the number has now grown to more than 900, creating business opportunities and employment for those involved in the sector.
For him, this growth represents more than an increase in the number of businesses. It provides a foundation for the Lao gold sector to develop into a stronger domestic industry that can contribute to household incomes and the wider economy.
“I have been growing in the gold business for almost 50 years,” Mr Phouvong said, stressing the importance of building on this experience while preparing the industry for a wider market.

The award-winning ‘Dok Khoun’ gold jewellery set by Phouvong Jewellery, which won 1st prize at the Lao Gold Festival 2026, showcasing exquisite Lao craftsmanship inspired by traditional New Year blessings.

A key part of his vision is to strengthen the identity of Lao gold and promote it beyond the domestic market. He wants Lao gold to become a product that can compete and gain recognition internationally, while encouraging businesses in the sector to improve their products, services and brands.
The development of distinctive Lao gold products could also create opportunities to connect the jewellery sector with the country’s tourism industry. Mr Phouvong sees potential for visitors to Laos to regard Lao gold not only as a valuable product, but also as a meaningful souvenir linked to the country’s culture and craftsmanship.
Such an approach could help broaden the benefits of tourism by encouraging visitors to explore and purchase locally made products, while creating additional opportunities for businesses and people working throughout the gold and jewellery sector.
Mr Phouvong also emphasised the importance of cooperation within the industry. As competition increases, businesses need to work together to strengthen trust and unity, improve standards, and build a stronger reputation for Lao gold as a whole.
The Lao Gold Festival provided an opportunity for businesses and industry stakeholders to showcase their products, share their experiences and build stronger links. The event’s theme reflected the association’s broader ambition to encourage collaboration while building consumer confidence.
Looking ahead, Mr Phouvong said his goal is to help transform gold businesses into a more developed industry that can provide Lao people with opportunities to build household economies and improve their livelihoods.
He also wants the industry to become more closely connected with tourism, so that international visitors come to Laos not only to experience its natural and cultural attractions, but also with an interest in taking Lao gold home with them.
For the Lao gold sector, the next stage is therefore about moving beyond domestic growth and building a stronger national identity, one that can carry Lao gold from a long-established local business tradition towards wider recognition in the world market.

By Advertorial Desk
 (Latest Update September 16, 2026)