TRIANGLE II Quarterly Briefing Note: Lao PDR (January - March 2016)

While economic growth and especially foreign direct investment in Lao People’s Democratic Republic has been increasing, poverty reduction has been slower than other ASEAN Members states. GDP growth has averaged seven per cent over the past decade, largely based on exploitation of natural resources (water, minerals and forests) rather than a more diversified economy or a transition out of agricultural and subsistence employment. Consequently, labour migration remains an important livelihood option for the Lao workforce, including for increasing numbers of Lao women.