LOCA launches US$2.5M Green Bond to boost EV mobility in Laos

LOCA, the country’s leading homegrown ride-hailing and electric mobility platform, has announced the launch of a US$2.5 million Green Bond as part of an extended fundraising round, reinforcing its commitment to transform Laos’ transportation sector through sustainable innovation.
The Green Bond issuance is being jointly facilitated by three securities firms—BCEL-KT Securities Company Limited, LDB Securities Sole Company Limited, and Lao-China Securities Public Company—marking a significant milestone for both LOCA and the Lao capital market.
Proceeds from the bond will be channelled into two key areas including expanding the nationwide network of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations and accelerating the rollout of LOCA MINI, an affordable, fully electric taxi fleet designed for urban commuters.

A unique aspect of the infrastructure plan includes revitalising disused petrol stations, converting them into community-based EV hubs that serve both private and commercial EV drivers.
Speaking at the launch, Deputy Governor of the Bank of the Lao PDR, Mr Soulisak Thamnuvong, welcomed the move as a major development for the country’s green finance landscape. “This initiative is a crucial step for the Lao capital market, especially in the area of green bonds. It opens new investment avenues tied to environmentally friendly business practices and contributes to our long-term economic and environmental goals,” he said.
Managing Director of BCEL-KT Securities Company Limited, Dr Thepsavanh Kitignavong, hailed the bond as the first of its kind in Laos. “This is not just a financial milestone but also a clear commitment from LOCA to lead the way in sustainable mobility.”
Co-Founder and CEO of LOCA, Mr Souliyo Vongdala, said the extension of the current fundraising round aims to accelerate the company’s long-term goals. “Although we have already secured committed investments, this additional funding allows us to fast-track our vision—initially set for 2035—to be achieved by 2030,” he stated.

“We were the first to introduce ride-hailing in Laos and helped create a market from the ground up. We now intend to do the same for electric mobility—building an ecosystem that will serve both the environment and the people.”
Founded in 2018, LOCA has grown to become the country’s largest ride-hailing service, with more than 1,000 active drivers—90 percent of whom currently operate EVs. The company has already built a nationwide EV charging network, serving over 8,000 vehicles and covering nearly the entire EV market in Laos.
Co-Founder and Co-CEO, Ms Phonepasong Mixab highlighted the financial and social benefits of the business model. “LOCA is not only scaling rapidly but also doing so profitably and responsibly. With our strong team, advanced technology, and proven track record, we are confident that this round will yield strong returns for investors while delivering real value to the Lao community.”
The domestic EV market is experiencing rapid growth, with four-wheel battery electric vehicle (BEV) registrations increasing from just over 1,400 in 2022 to more than 5,100 in 2024. The figure is expected to exceed 8,000 in 2025, with annual registrations forecasted to reach 15,000 by 2030.
Cost savings are a key driver behind this trend. EV drivers in Laos are currently saving more than 70 percent in fuel costs compared to petrol-powered vehicles. With falling EV prices and enhanced charging infrastructure, the adoption rate is expected to rise steadily in the coming years.
With abundant renewable energy sources, Laos is ideally positioned to lead the electric mobility transition in the region. According to estimates from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the country could save up to US$940 million annually by 2030 if it achieves full EV adoption.
Through this Green Bond initiative, LOCA is inviting environmentally aligned investors to support a transformative movement—one that creates jobs, reduces emissions, and sets Laos on a path to becoming a regional leader in sustainable transport.

By Advertorial Desk
 (Latest Update June 11, 2025)