Laos’ Economic Recovery Gains Momentum, but Labor Shortages Persist

2026-02-16 - 08:19

Recent data show that Laos’ economy is beginning to recover. International institutions report GDP growth of 4.2 percent, driven largely by mining and electricity exports. Headline inflation has eased to just over 5 percent. But the streets of Vientiane tell a different story. Across the capital, small businesses display “Urgent: Staff Wanted” signs. Café owners,