Laos
Country Overview
Laos sits at the heart of mainland Southeast Asia, bordering Burma, Cambodia, China, Thailand and Vietnam. As it seeks to play a more prominent role in global affairs, including in ASEAN, Laos faces significant challenges stemming from its low-skilled workforce and economic vulnerability. The United States partners with Laos to support informed decision-making that leverages its youthful population and contributes to a rules-based, resilient Indo-Pacific.
USAID partners with Laos to advance economic reforms, strengthen the rule of law, and improve health and education outcomes for the people of Laos – all of which help build Laos’ self-reliance while elevating its role on the global stage.
Laos is one of the poorest countries in Asia. Despite steady economic growth, development challenges stifle progress. USAID partners with the Government of Laos, civil society and an emerging private sector to drive sustainable development in economic growth, the rule of law, health and education.
