The use of electric cooking, instead of traditional charcoal or wood, is increasing in the country, benefiting air quality, climate and human health; 8000 deaths per year are linked to domestic pollution

First aquarium in laos is being planned in Vientiane, featuring freshwater species from the Mekong and regional rivers; The facility will include educational exhibits, conservation programs and research spaces

A major corruption case in Attapeu revealed billions of kip in stolen public funds and exposed widespread financial mismanagement in local government; 38 officials and business figures are implicated in embezzlement and abuse of public investment projects

Thailand has eased oil export controls to Laos, allowing shipments to resume under revised monitoring measures; The move follows supply disruptions and aims to stabilise cross-border energy trade

An agreement for a 100-megawatt solar power plant in Oudomxay province was signed with a South Korean energy company including panels, transmission links and grid integration; Laos aims to diversify beyond hydropower and attract foreign investments