Thailand and Laos aim to boost bilateral trade to $11 billion by 2025, discussing border procedures, agricultural exports, and the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement to enhance cooperation.
The recent discussions between Thailand and Laos aim to significantly boost bilateral trade to $11 billion by 2025. Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan met with Lao Minister of Industry and Trade Malaythong Kommasith in Vientiane to explore reopening closed border crossings and improving border procedures.
Minister Pichai emphasized the need for relaxed measures for Thai trucks transporting fruits to China and expressed a desire to expedite the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement negotiations. Laos showed readiness to support these initiatives and enhance its exports of agricultural products to Thailand.
Both countries plan to convene again to discuss collaboration between their ministries of Commerce and Industry. Pichai congratulated Laos on its upcoming ASEAN chairmanship in 2024, underscoring Thailand’s longstanding role as Laos’ top trading partner, and highlighting the opportunity to strengthen their bilateral relationship further.
Source : Thailand seeks Laos cooperation to boost exports to Vietnam, China
