Laos is gearing up to host the annual ASEAN Tourism Forum in January 2024, which will take place in the country’s capital city, Vientiane. The forum's subject is "Quality and Responsible Tourism — Sustaining ASEAN Future," reflecting the forum's emphasis on sustainable and responsible tourism practises.
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The forum will include a tourism exhibition and is expected to boost tourism in Laos while encouraging service improvement in associated businesses. The Lao News Agency quoted Minister of Information, Culture, and Tourism Suanesavanh Vignaket, who stated that the event will promote Laos as a nature-based tourism destination.
Laos’ Previous Hosting of the ASEAN Tourism Forum:
Laos will host the ASEAN Tourism Forum for the second time. Laos has held the event in 2004 and 2013, highlighting the country's potential as a Southeast Asian tourism destination.
Promoting Laos as a Nature-Based Tourism Destination:
The Lao government is keen to promote the country’s potential as a nature-based tourism destination. Many foreign tourists have already visited Laos to explore the country’s scenic attractions, as well as the local lifestyles and traditions.
Tourism Industry’s Resilience amid the COVID-19 Pandemic:
The COVID-19 epidemic has had a huge impact on the tourism industry. However, Laos had an increase in tourist visits in the first three months of 2023, with over 831,000 foreign visitors. This is a considerable increase from just 211,898 overseas visitors in the first six months of 2022, which was the peak of the pandemic.
About Laos, key points:
1. Capital: Vientiane
2. Currency: Lao kip (LAK)
3. President: Thongloun Sisoulith (as of 2021)
4. Official language: Lao
5. Population: Approximately 7.2 million people
6. Geography: Located in Southeast Asia, bordered by Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, China, and Myanmar
