Efforts to upgrade the skills of Lao workers to international standards are progressing through an IBL-China cooperation project to support growth and alleviate labor shortages.
Total progress and future plans were discussed at the annual meeting of the Lao PDR Skills Enhancement Project Steering Committee, held in Vientiane on March 31, 2026.
Mr. Xaybandith Rasphone, Vice President of the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, chaired the opening ceremony. Also present were Mr. Vilay Vongkaserm, Vice President of the Lao Federation of Trade Unions, and Mr. Tianfeng, Project Manager of the IBL-China Cooperation Project. The meeting reviewed progress in 2025 and discussed plans for 2026-2027.
Focusing on upskilling Lao workers to meet regional and international standards, participants included representatives from the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare, the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Lao Federation of Trade Unions, the IBL in Laos, the Chinese Embassy’s Skills Development Institute, and vocational education institutions.
Officials stated that this project plays a crucial role in helping Laos respond to economic pressures. This includes rising inflation and labor shortages impacting businesses and factories.
Since 2019, cooperation under the International Labour Organization-China project has delivered results in improving policies, legal frameworks, and regional cooperation, including support for ASEAN skills competition.
Training focuses on key sectors such as garment manufacturing, food processing, e-commerce, marketing, and electric vehicles, enabling workers to acquire practical skills relevant to market demands.
The project also supports hands-on training within companies, allowing trainers to more effectively mentor employees in real-world work environments. Through close cooperation between governments, employers, and workers, the conference agreed on clear steps to improve job opportunities and increase workplace productivity.
Discussions also focused on strengthening the link between training and job market needs, including skill standards, curriculum development, certification systems, and job placement services. This new plan aligns with the government’s National Economic and Social Development Plan for 2026-2030, the Five-Year Plan for Labour and Social Welfare Development, and the Sustainable Development Goals.
Participants agreed to continue working closely with all partners to ensure skills development meets international standards and supports the sustainable economic growth of Laos.