The conference attracted over 200 participants from government, civil society, development partners, and the private sector, both domestic and international, and featured booths from project developers showcasing their technologies.
Over the two days, more than 35 panelists explored topics including carbon market readiness, investment opportunities, business ecosystems, and regional energy perspectives. Key topics included mobilizing the private sector, overcoming barriers to investment, and scaling up financing for carbon and energy projects.
Day 1: Scaling the Carbon Market focused on scaling up the carbon market in Laos. The forum was led by Minister of Agriculture and Environment Linkham Douangsavanh, Australian Ambassador to Laos Megan Jones, and GGGI Regional Director and Head of Asia Programs Mallé Fofana.
Discussions focused on policy and institutional frameworks for carbon trading. The focus was on shifting from policy to implementation and scaling up high-integrity carbon market solutions aligned with the Paris Agreement.
This forum followed the promulgation of the Carbon Credit Decree, signed by Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone on May 28, 2025, which marked a significant step towards unlocking carbon revenue for the country.
Day 2: Accelerating an Inclusive and Resilient Clean Energy Transition was chaired by Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce Chansaveng Bounyong, Ambassador Megan Jones, and Natharoun Ngo Son, Regional Director of EnergyLab Asia.
Keynote speaker Ms. Sue-Ern Tan, Head of the International Energy Agency’s Regional Cooperation Centre in Singapore, provided regional insights into both carbon markets and the energy transition.
With the falling costs of solar, wind, battery, and electric vehicles, Lao PDR has a significant opportunity to enhance energy security, reduce imports, and meet its climate commitments.
This forum serves as an important forum for the development of carbon markets and clean energy solutions. This reinforces Lao PDR’s commitment to climate action and sustainable development.
