Recent studies indicate that a variety of challenges in the business environment hinder further inflow of investment in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic. Lack of skills and limited human resources, limited access to financial services and a discouraging regulatory environment, along with anticipated challenges related to regional economic integration place critical constraints on businesses.

This report summarizes the results of a national enterprise survey; desk reviews on issues which concern enterprises in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic; and findings from consultations with the private sector and key stakeholders. Issues under review include the following:
-skills education and training;
-access to finance;
-the legal and regulatory environment;
-anticipated challenges related to the AEC, or Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Economic Community 2015.