Laos’ trade deficit widened to USD 133 mln in June despite a 10% monthly increase in total trade value to USD 1.227 bln. Imports rose 7% to over USD 680 mln, outpacing exports, which grew 13% to USD 547 mln. With inflation at 26.1% YoY in July, and the Thai baht appreciating sharply against the Lao kip, Laos is likely to emphasize export promotion and import substitution to manage economic imbalances.