VIENTIANE, Sept. 22 (Xinhua) -- As tourism continues to boom in 2025, Laos is ramping up efforts to strengthen its tourism sector through targeted initiatives and workforce training, aimed at attracting more visitors and sustaining the momentum.
Laos welcomed 3,061,928 foreign tourists in the first eight months of 2025, marking a significant 15 percent increase compared to the same period last year. The rise reflects growing global interest in Laos as a travel destination.
According to the latest report from the Lao Ministry of Culture and Tourism released in September, the top source countries from January to August 2025 included Thailand with 977,675 visitors, followed by Vietnam with 790,403, and China with 750,650 arrivals.
Bandith, a passionate traveler from Savannakhet province, is known among his friends as the go-to person for organizing adventurous trips across Laos. In his free time, he often plans group journeys, acting as an informal tour guide for both local and international friends.
"Laos truly has so many beautiful places to visit, from stunning waterfalls and mountains to ancient temples and serene landscapes. There's so much to explore," Bandith told Xinhua on Monday.
However, he acknowledges that challenges remain, noting, "Despite the natural beauty, accessibility is still an issue. Many people haven't had the chance to see these places because getting there can be difficult."
Driven by his love for travel, Bandith believes Laos has immense tourism potential. He called for greater investment in infrastructure, especially in roads and transportation, to make travel safer and more comfortable for all visitors.
He also emphasized the importance of collaboration between local communities and authorities to strengthen the tourism sector.
"Locals are the ones who welcome visitors and share their stories. We must value their role if we want to become a truly welcoming destination," he said. "It's also vital to develop sustainable tourism practices that protect our environment and culture."
The Lao government is stepping up efforts to strengthen the tourism sector, attract more visitors, and boost national revenue.
As part of its push to facilitate travel and promote digital transformation, the Immigration Police Department under the Ministry of Public Security launched a pilot program for a new online entry and exit registration system, replacing traditional paper-based immigration forms for foreign travelers. The new system officially began on Sept. 1.
A waitress in Lao capital Vientiane shared her thoughts on the challenges facing the tourism sector, noting that the country still needs significant improvements, particularly in developing a qualified tourism workforce. Danny pointed out common issues such as language barriers and limited knowledge about local attractions, which make it difficult for staff to assist foreign visitors effectively.
She called for greater investment in staff training, especially in English and Chinese language skills, as well as in tourism-related knowledge. Danny believes that improving workforce capabilities is essential to providing a better experience for tourists and supporting the sustainable growth of Laos' tourism sector.
Alex, an office worker who takes on driving as a side hustle in the evenings, enjoys taking travelers around the city. He finds great satisfaction in talking with foreign visitors during the rides, sharing stories about Laos, and helping tourists reach their destinations safely.
He especially enjoys busy periods such as cultural festivals and events, which bring an influx of tourists to the country.
Alex believes that organizing more events and festivals would attract even more visitors and further boost Laos' growing tourism industry.
Laos' tourism sector continues to grow in 2025, driven by improved transportation infrastructure, including the China-Laos Railway, expressways, upgraded roads, and expanded airports, making travel more convenient for both international and domestic visitors, according to the Lao Ministry of Culture and Tourism report.
The country is projected to welcome 4.38 million foreign tourists in 2025, a 6 percent increase from 2024, along with 4.19 million domestic tourists, up 7 percent. By 2026, those figures are expected to rise to 4.46 million international and 4.37 million domestic travelers. ■
