Government Licensing and Public Bidding Process Mapping for Social Security Compliance in Lao PDR

In alignment with national policies such as the 9th National Socio-Economic Development Plan (2021-2025) and the National Social Protection Strategy of 2020-2025, the Government of Lao PDR prioritizes ensuring that businesses comply with social security regulations. In support of such efforts, this study aims to explore how government licensing and public bidding processes can be leveraged to strengthen compliance with social security registration and contribution requirements, thereby expanding social security coverage and enhancing worker protections. The study maps licensing and public bidding processes across key ministries as well as the extent to which they include requirements on social security compliance. The study then identifies regulatory gaps and provides recommendations to effectively integrate social security compliance into these regulatory frameworks.