Lao is one of 44 least developed countries (LDCs) designated by the United Nations Committee for Development Policy (CDP) and is working diligently to graduate from LDC status by 2026 through efforts to modernize and digitize its society. In terms of mobile communications, the quality of service remains insufficient compared to neighboring countries, and the government continues its efforts to enhance service quality.
In response, since 2023, KDDI Foundation has been supporting a project aimed at establishing a “Quality Inspection Center for Mobile Broadband Services” led by Lao Telecommunication Regulatory Authority (LTRA) under the Ministry of Technology and Communications (MTC). This initiative is implemented as a Pilot Project for Rural Areas under APT program.
As a part of this project, we have facilitated the invitation of Lao government officials to Japan to participate in training sessions introducing the telecommunications policies and act in Japan, as well as KDDI's effort to improve mobile service quality. Additionally, KDDI Foundation is supporting the development of a centralized management system for base stations operated by each telecom company, along with a measurement system to support mobile quality improvement.
At the first progress report meeting held in January 2024, Deputy Minister Xayluxa Insisiengmay of MTC stated, “Improving telecommunication quality is an urgent issue in advancing digital transformation, and this project is an important step toward realizing a digital economy, government, and society in Lao. It is very welcome.”
Currently, in the second stage of the project, we are finalizing system development in preparation for the launch of the Quality Inspection Center and supporting legal reforms to enable LTRA and all telecom operators to collaborate on improving mobile service quality.
In 2024, Lao served as the ASEAN Chair and hosted the Asean Summit in December. As the country’s international presence continues to grow, we remain committed to contribute to the improvement of telecommunications quality, which is an essential foundation for Lao’s social and economic development.
