Vientiane, Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang – November 27, 2023 – Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) gathered enthusiastically for the second round of business engagement events for the Lasting Laos certification,

hosted by the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LNCCI) under the SUSTOUR Laos Project. This project, funded by the European Union and implemented by Plan International Laos in cooperation with Ministry of Industry and Commerce, LNCCI, and European Centre for Ecological and Agricultural Tourism, aims to foster sustainable practices within the Lao tourism industry (ECEAT).

The project organized three additional events in Luang Prabang, Vientiane Province, and Vientiane Capital throughout November. These events are designed for owners and senior management of businesses operating within the tourism sector. Participants gained valuable insights into the certification programme, application procedures, and the benefits of becoming a certified Lasting Laos entity.

The Lasting Laos certification programme serves as a local sustainability initiative for businesses in the tourism sector that have demonstrated commendable environmental, social, and economic practices. Inspired by Travelife, the world’s leading sustainability certification, the Lasting Laos programme is designed to enhance the overall sustainability of the Lao tourism supply chain.

Through this programme, businesses receive benchmarks and guidance to assess and improve their sustainability performance across four key sectors of the tourism industry: transportation, food and beverage, handicraft and souvenirs, and cultural excursions. Waste management, a critical cross-cutting issue, is prioritised across all sectors.

“We have strategically aligned our efforts to support businesses in adopting sustainable practices and contributing to national economic growth,” remarked Ms. Carol Anne Mortensen, Country Director of Plan International Laos. This executive opportunity empowers businesses within the tourism sector to gain a comprehensive understanding of the SUSTOUR Laos project and the Lasting Laos sustainability certification programme. By attaining Lasting Laos certification status, businesses can distinguish themselves as leading sustainable tourism enterprises in the country.

“As the EU ambassador, I wholeheartedly express our continued support for the SUSTOUR project. By adopting Lasting Laos Certification, we are empowering local Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises to promote sustainable practices, protecting environment and fostering economic growth in sustainable manner.This initiative reflects our firm commitment to fostering a harmonious balance between economic growth, environmental preservation, and cultural heritage, ensuring a prosperous and responsible future for the country’s tourism sector,” said Ms. Ina Marčiulionytė, Ambassador and Head of Delegation of the European Union to Laos.

“Supporting MSMEs to adopt the Lasting Laos Certification  is an significant step to enhance the standard of Lao products and services  to meet global quality standard and be visibility both local and international. It will also help the local MSMEs step forward to export products and services to global stage.”  Said Ms. Chanthachon Vongxay, Vice President of the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The Lasting Laos Engagement event serves as a pivotal step towards building a more sustainable and resilient tourism industry in Laos. By encouraging businesses to adopt environmentally and socially responsible practices, the project aims to preserve the country’s natural beauty and cultural heritage while fostering inclusive economic growth.