Wednesday September 08 , 2010

Economy

Light manufacturing

Last Updated on Monday, 29 March 2010 14:03

Low cost labour and energy resources attract foreign investors for both international and domestic markets such as, textiles, garments, motor vehicles and other consumer goods. Many of Laos’ famous hardwood handicrafts are made from scavenged wood gathered from the forest floor, serving the dual purpose of clearing away deadwood and allowing artisans to create their works of art for locals and tourists alike.

 

Agri-business

Last Updated on Monday, 29 March 2010 14:04

 Laos is blessed with excellent soil and favorable climactic conditions for year round growing. Rice, tea, coffee, cotton, sugar, fruits and vegetables, along with flowers and pastoral farming are all important to Lao agriculture. Organic farming is a growth industry, and forest re-plantation, especially rubber trees, is showing potential too.

 

Hydro-electric

Last Updated on Monday, 29 March 2010 14:04

With estimates of 30,000 megawatts of hydro-electric power available, and only 600 megawatts developed so far coupled with the huge appetite of its neighbours, Laos’ economic future appears very secure.


   

Mining

Last Updated on Monday, 29 March 2010 14:07

There are substantial deposits of gold, coal, tin, zinc, bauxite and copper, limestone and gypsum; the government actively encourages foreign investment in the mining and processing of ore.