Vietnam will receive priority when Laos opens up to international tourism.

Regarding the roadmap for opening up to fully vaccinated international tourists, the Deputy Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism of Laos, Ounthuang Khaophan, stated that tourists from neighboring countries, especially Vietnam, China, and other ASEAN countries, will be considered for entry into Laos first.

According to Mr. Ounthuang, Laos' current priority is to vaccinate at least 50% of its population against Covid-19 by the end of the year. As of October 23rd, 43.55% of the Lao population had received one dose of the vaccine, and 37.24% had completed their vaccinations. This may be the reason why the Southeast Asian nation has not yet set a date for reopening to vaccinated foreign tourists, while many countries in the region are planning to reopen their borders.

After vaccinating over 50% of the population and the pandemic situation improves, Laos may reopen its borders to vaccinated tourists. At that time, tourists from neighboring countries, especially Vietnam, China, and other ASEAN countries, will be considered first, followed by those from other low-risk countries.

Since the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, Laos has implemented strict border controls and travel restrictions to slow the spread of the disease. However, this has also severely impacted the country's tourism industry and economy.

Huyen Chau - Photo: Internet