THE ASIAN CENTURY
Twenty years ago, Laos was one of the top 10 poorest countries in the world. Today, the Lao economy is growing at an impressive rate of 7. 7%, making it the 3rd fastest growing economy in Asia. There are signs that we could be witnessing a dawn of a new era of economic growth and prosperity for the Lao population. Besides mining and resources, another key factor accounting for Laos recent prosperity can be attributed to the phenomenal growth of its tourism sector. Tourism creates employment opportunities in a large scale and is a vital source of foreign exchange. But, amidst the mood of optimism, there are some concerns about certain ill-effects that might emerge in the long term. Host Brendon Fernandez talks to the different players in Laos PDR’s tourism sector to examine the challenges this formerly remote landlocked state will encounter as it grows its tourism industry while trying to preserve its cultural heritage.
