Latest news in Laos? September 27th, 2026

The latest notable news and developments in Laos include:

• Crackdown on Illegal Mining and River Pollution: Environmental and law enforcement authorities in Xaysomboun Province have taken action against multiple mining firms accused of carrying out unauthorized alluvial gold extraction beyond their permitted scopes. Regulatory actions were also stepped up following reports of industrial waste polluting the Nam Song River near the tourism hub of Vang Vieng.

  Business and Human Rights Centre

• Surge in Overseas Remittances: The Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare reported that Lao workers abroad sent home approximately $500 million in remittances during the first seven months of the year, representing a 36.6% year-on-year increase. The figures were released amid ongoing regional cooperation under the “TRIANGLE in ASEAN” initiative to safeguard migrant labor rights.

  新华网+ 1

• Suspension of Work Permits for Specific Foreign Labor: The Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare introduced a temporary suspension through the end of 2026 on issuing new work permits (LA-B2 visas) and approving recruitment quotas for Bangladeshi nationals, citing measures to combat unauthorized recruitment agencies and unregulated border entries.

  The Business Standard

• Renewable Energy Expansion: Laos is moving forward with clean energy developments, advancing approvals and preparatory work on the 100-megawatt Bolikhamxay solar farm as part of its wider strategy to diversify domestic power generation and cross-border grid exports.

• Boun Ork Phansa Preparations: Cities along the Mekong, particularly Pakse in Champasak Province, have finalized major logistical plans to host the annual Boun Ork Phansa (End of Buddhist Lent) festivities and accompanying traditional boat-racing events scheduled for early autumn.