Laos Begins Relaxing Coronavirus Tourism Restrictions

Pha That Luang is a famous tourist spot in Vientiane, Laos’ capital (Wikimedia Commons).

With only 23 cases since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, Laos has begun to ease travel and immigration regulations, aiming to curb the economic effects of the pandemic on the tourism industry.

As early as March, Laos began lifting its lockdown policies. With only 19 cases during February and March, the government reopened businesses, restaurants, and some schools. Some citizens, such as one unnamed restaurant owner, had expressed concerns about the government’s lockdown policies on the economy: “Many Laos citizens who invest in their own businesses complain a lot and hurt a lot," the owner said.

In order to bolster tourism, an industry impacted significantly by COVID-19 travel bans, Laos announced its intent to allow tourist groups from countries without major coronavirus outbreaks. Additionally, Laos has begun active talks with Japan, China, and Vietnam to streamline immigration policy.

Laos’s economy is expected to experience a growth of just 0.7 percent in 2020, but the government’s efforts to induce tourism aim to mitigate the country’s derailed growth.

Travelers are required to self-quarantine, and can now receive testing results within 48 hours. The new measures will remain in effect until October 31 but are subject to change. Laos has not recorded new cases since August 14, and remains the country with the lowest rate of coronavirus in Southeast Asia.

“There will be a review and assessment of the implementation [of the measures], and in case there are changes, the government will announce them,” said Dr. Phouthone Meaungpark, Vice Chairman of the National Task Force for COVID-19 Prevention and Control.

Although many public domains remain closed, the Laotian government’s response to the coronavirus has largely been viewed as a success by international circles. However, in the context of heavy tourism from China, citizens have doubts regarding the Laotian government’s recorded figures. "Many people complain and ask the question [if there are more cases] to each other, but they feel uncomfortable about asking the government," the restaurant owner said.

Laos’s economy has taken significant hits due to the pandemic, but the country has fared adequately compared to other Southeastern states. With schools and shops reopening and tourism renewed, there are increased possibilities for Laos to boost its economy.