In a heartfelt speech, Mr. Thanongsingh Kanlagna emphasized the crucial role that the ASEAN Business Awards (ABA) plays in fostering economic collaboration and recognizing outstanding enterprises within the community. “To

night, we honor those who not only excel in their fields but also inspire others to strive for greatness. The ABA is more than just an awards ceremony; it is a cornerstone of our community to elevate the ASEAN business landscape,” Chair stated.

Furthermore, H.E. Manothong VONGSAY, Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce, also took the stage to celebrate the successes of the awardees and highlighted the achievements of the awardees are a testament to the resilience and creativity of ASEAN businesses. They lead the path toward boosting economic development, creating jobs, and fostering innovation across all sectors.

ABA 2024 was graced by the presence of distinguished guests, and our VIP guest, H.E. Prof. PhD. Kikeo KHAYKHAMPHITHOUNE, Deputy Prime Minister of Lao PDR, who attended to witness the celebration of excellence in private sector. His excellency expressed the importance of unity and cooperation in the ASEAN community, remarking that such event serves as vital platforms for dialogue and collaboration among member states.

The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as the awards were presented to the winners in various categories, including outstanding companies in the Priority Integration Sectors Excellence Awards (PIS) and SMEs Excellence Awards sectors. The ABA acknowledges that these enterprises are key drivers of economic growth in the region. Their dedication and entrepreneurial spirit significantly contribute to more integrated and prosperous ASEAN economy.

Additionally, the event highlighted Special Awards designed to recognize exceptional achievements and contributions in specific areas. These awards were instrumental in showcasing not only the winners’ accomplishments but also the diverse potential within the ASEAN business community.

As the evening progressed, and shared purposed among attendees was obvious. Business leaders, government officials, representatives of ASEAN embassies and industry stakeholders gathered to commemorate the successes of their peers, forging connections that will drive future collaboration.

The awards are classified in 3 major categories: Priority Integration Sector Awards, SME Excellence Awards and Special Awards that got screened and shortlisted process by our expert judges from 10 ASEAN countries.

Finally yet importantly, the excitement grew as the aba concluded with a collaborative celebration with the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA). The ceremony included the prestigious “One ASEAN Start-up Awards,’ by ERIA. With admiration and purpose the representative from ERIA presented trophies to the winners during this special segment of wards presentation. The platform showed the invaluable contribution of startups to innovation and economic sustainability, reinforcing that these emerging business are vital to ASEAN’s future.

Contact: Secretariat of ABA Laos

1. Mr. Souphanthong PHONSEYA, Tel: 020 52562729

2. Ms. Lamita LAPHENGSY, Tel 020 94443513

Email: abalaos@lncci.la / souphanthong.p@lncci.la