Luang Prabang and Pakse, 15 May 2026: As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to transform economies and societies, governments, businesses, and communities must better understand these changes and harness emerging technologies to support productivity, innovation, and inclusive growth.

To support these efforts, ERIA’s Capacity Building Programme and the Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MOIC) of Lao PDR co-hosted a workshop series titled ‘Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA), Artificial Intelligence, and Emerging Technologies for the Private Sector in Northern and Southern Provinces of Lao PDR’. The workshops were held in Luang Prabang (11–12 May) and Pakse (14–15 May), bringing together participants from the public and private sectors.

The workshops served as a platform to connect ASEAN-wide developments under the DEFA – expected to be signed at the ASEAN Summit later this year – with national and provincial priorities in Lao PDR. Discussions focused on the growing role of AI and digital technologies, while also highlighting the importance of gender equality, disability, and social inclusion (GEDSI) in digital transformation, recognising that technological change can affect communities in different ways.

Speakers from MOIC and provincial authorities underscored the need to translate technological change into practical policies, stronger business capabilities, and deeper integration of local industries into regional value chains. Ms Pranjali Palnitkar, First Secretary (Economic) at the Australian Embassy to Lao PDR, emphasised the importance of sharing international experience and practical approaches to help bridge digital gaps between urban and rural communities as Lao PDR prepares for a more digitally integrated ASEAN.

Across both workshops, participants explored DEFA’s policy architecture, ASEAN’s AI vision and road maps, and practical AI applications in sectors such as logistics, e-commerce, tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, and services. Dr Randeep Kaur, Digital and AI Policy Economist at ERIA, presented technical and policy perspectives to help participants better understand the opportunities, risks, and implementation considerations associated with AI and emerging technologies.

Mr Saysana Sayakone, Director-General of the Department of Foreign Trade Policy at MOIC, noted that AI has become an important enabler of socio-economic transformation and encouraged participants to maximise emerging opportunities while learning how to manage associated risks.

Mr Khao Meksavanh, Deputy Head of Industry and Commerce of Luang Prabang, highlighted the importance of the workshop series in strengthening the capacities of both the public and private sectors and ensuring that new technologies are translated into effective policies and enhanced business competitiveness.

Mr Aphivath Sombounkhan, Deputy Head of the Industry and Commerce of Champasak Province, discussed the growing export ecosystem of Pakse, citing coffee as a key commodity. Discussions also explored the integration of AI into supply chains and the need to address intellectual property considerations.

Mr Sven Callebaut of the Asian Development Bank served as Project Lead for the workshops. Other contributors included:

• Dr Phinith Chanthalangsy of UNESCO, who examined global AI ethical standards and their implications for guiding Lao PDR’s digital transformation;
• Dr Savath Saypadith, CEO and Founder of Laligence AI, who showcased AI applications currently used in Lao PDR for logistics, supply chains, e-commerce, and customer engagement, while also highlighting emerging technologies across tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, and service sectors; and
• Dr Eric Mousset of Concorde, who complemented the sessions with practical exercises exploring AI, generative AI, real-world applications, and how businesses can use these technologies effectively.

The workshops, supported by the Australian Government, were moderated by Mr Jeremy Gross, ERIA’s Director of Mekong Affairs and Capacity Building, and managed by Ms Lina Maulidina, Senior Programme Officer at ERIA.