Laos Boosts Tourism Efforts to Draw Visitors and Support Local Enterprises

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Laos Boosts Tourism Efforts to Draw Visitors and Support Local Enterprises

Vientiane, Dec 25 (NationPress) Laos is actively working to improve its tourism sector to draw in a larger number of visitors and generate more opportunities for local enterprises.

Soutvimon, a vendor specializing in handicrafts in the Lao capital of Vientiane, expressed optimism regarding the flourishing tourism sector, believing it will create additional job openings, support local businesses, and deliver long-term economic advantages to communities.

"I believe Laos possesses significant potential to enhance its tourism industry, which will allow Lao citizens to elevate their livelihoods. As visitor numbers rise in Laos, local businesses such as restaurants, hotels, and souviner shops are poised to gain from this trend," she stated in an interview with Xinhua news agency on Wednesday.

She further noted that increased tourism provides her business with an opportunity to reach a broader audience, as international visitors are more inclined to purchase local goods and services.

The Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism of Laos has held a meeting to assess the progress of the Visit Laos Year 2024 tourism promotion campaign, establishing a foundation for future tourism endeavors.

During the meeting on Monday, Lao Minister of Information, Culture, and Tourism Suansavanh Viyaket underscored the government's dedication to tourism as a crucial economic sector, emphasizing its importance in generating jobs, income, and foreign currency inflows, all of which play a significant role in the economic and social development of Laos.

Laos is developing a strategy to enhance its tourism sector, concentrating on promoting high-quality tourism that adheres to international standards.

Phengchanh, a street food vendor, remarked, "I believe that as tourism continues to expand, more customers will arrive, leading to increased income and better chances for all local vendors like myself."

"Simultaneously, we must concentrate on the quality of our products and services, as satisfied tourists are likely to return and recommend us to others. The more visitors we attract, the more opportunities there are for businesses like mine to expand and create jobs for local residents," he added.