Growing pains

Article Abstract:

City planners in Vientiane, Laos hope to preserve its quaint charm and that of the the old royal capital, Luang Prabang, rather than let the demands of modern development homogenize them. Vientiane is actually a relatively young city, with most of its historic architecture dating to French construction in the 1920s and '30s but an appearance reminiscent of the 19th century. Somphone Dethoudom, director-general of Architecture and City Planning, set forth in 1994 a master plan for preserving old Vientiane, which has had some success.

Buildings and facilities, Vientiane, Laos (City)

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Old habits die hard

Article Abstract:

Laos is currently experiencing considerable economic difficulties, including rapidly rising inflation and a severe shortage of foreign capital. This is prompting some observers to question whether free-market reforms have really been worthwhile. Indications of economic problems were first seen in 1996, when the Lao currency began to fall in value. However, the situation has become substantially worse as a result of the fall in the value of the Thai baht, to which the Lao currency is linked, against the US dollar.

Economic aspects

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Open for business: new roads, bridges could unlock country's wealth

Article Abstract:

Infrastructure projects financed by foreign investment are finally paving the way to economic growth for Laos. With a minuscule local economy, its greatest advantages are rich natural resources and a strategic position between the three regional economic powers: China, Vietnam, and Thailand. Bridges, roads, and railways will help boost regional trade and facilitate the extraction and shipment of timber, minerals, and manufactured goods. Hydroelectric power also has vast promise, and could grow 10-fold by 2020.

Economic policy

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