Vietnam has become a prominent investor in Laos, with total registered investment capital nearing USD 5.5 bln. In 2023, Vietnamese investment in Laos reached USD 116.6 mln, a 65.3% increase from the previous year. Separately, Laos is working to reduce its high inflation rate, aiming for a 9% decrease this year after averaging 31.2% in 2023. Officials are implementing measures to stabilize the kip currency and address inflation despite December’s rate slightly dipping to 24.4% from 25.24% in November.