Knelstrom Intelligence · World Factbook
Laos
ສາທາລະນະລັດ ປະຊາທິປະໄຕ ປະຊາຊົນລາວ
CapitalVientiane
Population7,873,046
GDP$18.3bn
Area236,800 km²
RegionEast Asia & Pacific
Data sources current · last checked September 20, 2026 2:10 am
Country facts
Overview
Background
Modern-day Laos has its roots in the ancient Lao kingdom of Lan Xang, established in the 14th century under King FA NGUM. For 300 years, Lan Xang had influence reaching into present-day Cambodia and Thailand, as well as over all of what is now Laos. After centuries of gradual decline, Laos came under the domination of Siam (Thailand) from the late 18th century until the late 19th century, when it became part of French Indochina. The Franco-Siamese Treaty of 1907 defined the current Lao border with Thailand. Following more than 15 years of civil war, the communist Pathet Lao took control of the government in 1975, ending a six-century-old monarchy and instituting a one party--the Lao People's Revolutionary Party--communist state. A gradual, limited return to private enterprise and the liberalization of foreign investment laws began in the late 1980s. Laos became a member of ASEAN in 1997 and the WTO in 2013.
In the 2010s, the country benefited from direct foreign investment, particularly in the natural resource and industry sectors. Construction of a number of large hydropower dams and expanding mining activities have also boosted the economy. Laos has retained its official commitment to communism and maintains close ties with its two communist neighbors, Vietnam and China, both of which continue to exert substantial political and economic influence on the country. China, for example, provided 70% of the funding for a $5.9 billion, 400-km railway line between the Chinese border and the capital Vientiane, which opened for operations in 2021. Laos financed the remaining 30% with loans from China. At the same time, Laos has expanded its economic reliance on the West and other Asian countries, such as Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, and Thailand. Nevertheless, despite steady economic growth for more than a decade, it remains one of Asia's poorest countries.
Reference: 2021, 2013, 1997, 1975In the 2010s, the country benefited from direct foreign investment, particularly in the natural resource and industry sectors. Construction of a number of large hydropower dams and expanding mining activities have also boosted the economy. Laos has retained its official commitment to communism and maintains close ties with its two communist neighbors, Vietnam and China, both of which continue to exert substantial political and economic influence on the country. China, for example, provided 70% of the funding for a $5.9 billion, 400-km railway line between the Chinese border and the capital Vientiane, which opened for operations in 2021. Laos financed the remaining 30% with loans from China. At the same time, Laos has expanded its economic reliance on the West and other Asian countries, such as Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, and Thailand. Nevertheless, despite steady economic growth for more than a decade, it remains one of Asia's poorest countries.
Geography
Location
Southeastern Asia, northeast of Thailand, west of Vietnam
Map references
Southeast Asia
Area
total: 236,800 sq km
land: 230,800 sq km
water: 6,000 sq km
land: 230,800 sq km
water: 6,000 sq km
Area - comparative
about twice the size of Pennsylvania; slightly larger than Utah
Land boundaries
total: 5,274 km
border countries: Burma 238 km; Cambodia 555 km; China 475 km; Thailand 1,845 km; Vietnam 2,161 km
border countries: Burma 238 km; Cambodia 555 km; China 475 km; Thailand 1,845 km; Vietnam 2,161 km
Coastline
0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims
none (landlocked)
Climate
tropical monsoon; rainy season (May to November); dry season (December to April)
Terrain
mostly rugged mountains; some plains and plateaus
Elevation
highest point: Phu Bia 2,817 m
lowest point: Mekong River 70 m
mean elevation: 710 m
lowest point: Mekong River 70 m
mean elevation: 710 m
Natural resources
timber, hydropower, gypsum, tin, gold, gemstones
Land use
agricultural land: 9.9% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 5.3% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 1.7% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 2.9% (2023 est.)
forest: 56.8% (2023 est.)
other: 33.3% (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 5.3% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 1.7% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 2.9% (2023 est.)
forest: 56.8% (2023 est.)
other: 33.3% (2023 est.)
Irrigated land
4,410 sq km (2022)
Reference: 2022Major rivers (by length in km)
Mènam Khong (Mekong) (shared with China [s], Burma, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam [m]) - 4,350 km
note: [s] after country name indicates river source; [m] after country name indicates river mouth
note: [s] after country name indicates river source; [m] after country name indicates river mouth
Major watersheds (area sq km)
Pacific Ocean drainage: Mekong (805,604 sq km)
Population distribution
most densely populated area is in and around the capital city of Vientiane; large communities are primarily found along the Mekong River along the southwestern border; overall density is considered one of the lowest in Southeast Asia
Natural hazards
floods, droughts
Geography - note
landlocked; most of the country is mountainous and thickly forested; the Mekong River forms a large part of the western boundary with Thailand
Population & Society
Nationality
noun: Lao(s) or Laotian(s)
adjective: Lao or Laotian
adjective: Lao or Laotian
Ethnic groups
Lao 53.2%, Khmou 11%, Hmong 9.2%, Phouthay 3.4%, Tai 3.1%, Makong 2.5%, Katong 2.2%, Lue 2%, Akha 1.8%, other 11.6% (2015 est.)
note: note: the Laos Government officially recognizes 49 ethnic groups, but the total number of ethnic groups is estimated to be well over 200
Reference: 2015note: note: the Laos Government officially recognizes 49 ethnic groups, but the total number of ethnic groups is estimated to be well over 200
Languages
Languages: Lao (official), French, English, various ethnic languages
major-language sample(s): ແຫລ່ງທີ່ຂາດບໍ່ໄດ້ສຳລັບຂໍ້ມູນຕົ້ນຕໍ່” (Lao)
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major-language sample(s): ແຫລ່ງທີ່ຂາດບໍ່ໄດ້ສຳລັບຂໍ້ມູນຕົ້ນຕໍ່” (Lao)
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Religions
Buddhist 64.7%, Christian 1.7%, none 31.4%, other/not stated 2.1% (2015 est.)
Reference: 2015Age structure
0-14 years: 30.1% (male 1,214,429/female 1,181,845)
15-64 years: 65% (male 2,573,668/female 2,599,957)
65 years and over: 4.8% (2024 est.) (male 178,223/female 205,434)
Reference: 202415-64 years: 65% (male 2,573,668/female 2,599,957)
65 years and over: 4.8% (2024 est.) (male 178,223/female 205,434)
Dependency ratios
total dependency ratio: 53.7 (2024 est.)
youth dependency ratio: 46.3 (2024 est.)
elderly dependency ratio: 7.4 (2024 est.)
potential support ratio: 13.5 (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024youth dependency ratio: 46.3 (2024 est.)
elderly dependency ratio: 7.4 (2024 est.)
potential support ratio: 13.5 (2024 est.)
Median age
total: 25.4 years (2024 est.)
male: 25 years
female: 25.7 years
Reference: 2024male: 25 years
female: 25.7 years
Population growth rate
1.26% (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Birth rate
19.8 births/1,000 population (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Death rate
6.2 deaths/1,000 population (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Population distribution
most densely populated area is in and around the capital city of Vientiane; large communities are primarily found along the Mekong River along the southwestern border; overall density is considered one of the lowest in Southeast Asia
Major urban areas - population
721,000 VIENTIANE (capital) (2023)
Reference: 2023Sex ratio
at birth: 1.04 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.03 male(s)/female
15-64 years: 0.99 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.87 male(s)/female
total population: 1 male(s)/female (2024 est.)
Reference: 20240-14 years: 1.03 male(s)/female
15-64 years: 0.99 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.87 male(s)/female
total population: 1 male(s)/female (2024 est.)
Maternal mortality ratio
112 deaths/100,000 live births (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Gross reproduction rate
1.1 (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Drinking water source
improved: urban: urban: 97.1% of population (2022 est.)
improved: rural: rural: 78.5% of population (2022 est.)
improved: total: total: 85.5% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: urban: urban: 2.9% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: rural: rural: 21.5% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: total: total: 14.5% of population (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022improved: rural: rural: 78.5% of population (2022 est.)
improved: total: total: 85.5% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: urban: urban: 2.9% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: rural: rural: 21.5% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: total: total: 14.5% of population (2022 est.)
Health expenditure
Health expenditure (as % of GDP): 2.7% of GDP (2021)
Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 4.3% of national budget (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022, 2021Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 4.3% of national budget (2022 est.)
Physician density
0.33 physicians/1,000 population (2022)
Reference: 2022Hospital bed density
1.3 beds/1,000 population (2021 est.)
Reference: 2021Sanitation facility access
improved: urban: urban: 100% of population (2022 est.)
improved: rural: rural: 72% of population (2022 est.)
improved: total: total: 82.5% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: urban: urban: 0% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: rural: rural: 28% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: total: total: 17.5% of population (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022improved: rural: rural: 72% of population (2022 est.)
improved: total: total: 82.5% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: urban: urban: 0% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: rural: rural: 28% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: total: total: 17.5% of population (2022 est.)
Obesity - adult prevalence rate
5.3% (2016)
Reference: 2016Alcohol consumption per capita
total: 8.15 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
beer: 3.62 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
wine: 0.07 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
spirits: 4.46 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
other alcohols: 0 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Reference: 2019beer: 3.62 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
wine: 0.07 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
spirits: 4.46 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
other alcohols: 0 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Tobacco use
total: 24.1% (2025 est.)
male: 41% (2025 est.)
female: 7.2% (2025 est.)
male: 41% (2025 est.)
female: 7.2% (2025 est.)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight
24.3% (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Currently married women (ages 15-49)
60.1% (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Child marriage
women married by age 15: 7.1% (2017)
women married by age 18: 32.7% (2017)
men married by age 18: 10.8% (2017)
Reference: 2017women married by age 18: 32.7% (2017)
men married by age 18: 10.8% (2017)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education)
total: 9 years (2023 est.)
male: 9 years (2023 est.)
female: 9 years (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023male: 9 years (2023 est.)
female: 9 years (2023 est.)
Migration & Displacement
Immigrant/emigrant stock measures the number of international migrants resident in, or originating from, the country; it is not the same as annual immigration/emigration flows.
Refugees and internally displaced persons
IDPs: 1,274 (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Government & Politics
| Office | Holder | Affiliation | From | Status | Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Head of government | Sonexay Siphandone | — | 2022-12-30 | Current | Reported |
| Head of state | Thongloun Sisoulith | — | — | Current | Reported |
Country name
conventional long form: Lao People's Democratic Republic
conventional short form: Laos
local long form: Sathalanalat Paxathipatai Paxaxon Lao
local short form: Mueang Lao (unofficial)
abbreviation: Lao PDR
etymology: name means "Land of the Lao [people];" it derives from the name of the country's founder, Lao
conventional short form: Laos
local long form: Sathalanalat Paxathipatai Paxaxon Lao
local short form: Mueang Lao (unofficial)
abbreviation: Lao PDR
etymology: name means "Land of the Lao [people];" it derives from the name of the country's founder, Lao
Capital
name: Vientiane (Viangchan)
geographic coordinates: 17 58 N, 102 36 E
time difference: UTC+7 (12 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the name Viangchan means "city of sandalwood" in Laotian; the standard spelling reflects French influence
geographic coordinates: 17 58 N, 102 36 E
time difference: UTC+7 (12 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the name Viangchan means "city of sandalwood" in Laotian; the standard spelling reflects French influence
Administrative divisions
17 provinces (khoueng, singular and plural) and 1 prefecture* (kampheng nakhon); Attapu, Bokeo, Bolikhamxay, Champasak, Houaphanh, Khammouan, Louangnamtha, Louangphabang (Luang Prabang), Oudomxai, Phongsali, Salavan, Savannakhet, Viangchan (Vientiane)*, Viangchan, Xaignabouli, Xaisomboun, Xekong, Xiangkhouang
Legal system
civil law system similar in form to the French system
Constitution
history: previous 1947 (pre-independence); latest promulgated 13-15 August 1991
amendment process: proposed by the National Assembly; passage requires at least two-thirds majority vote of the Assembly membership and promulgation by the president of the republic
Reference: 1991, 1947amendment process: proposed by the National Assembly; passage requires at least two-thirds majority vote of the Assembly membership and promulgation by the president of the republic
International law organization participation
has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; non-party state to the ICCt
Citizenship
citizenship by birth: no
citizenship by descent only: at least one parent must be a citizen of Laos
dual citizenship recognized: no
residency requirement for naturalization: 10 years
citizenship by descent only: at least one parent must be a citizen of Laos
dual citizenship recognized: no
residency requirement for naturalization: 10 years
Suffrage
18 years of age; universal
Executive branch
chief of state: President THONGLOUN Sisoulith (since 22 March 2021)
head of government: Prime Minister SONEXAY (also spelled SONXAI) Siphandon (since 30 December 2022)
cabinet: Council of Ministers appointed by the president and approved by the National Assembly
election/appointment process: president and vice president indirectly elected by the National Assembly for a 5-year term (no term limits); prime minister nominated by the president, elected by the National Assembly for a 5-year term
most recent election date: 22 March 2021
election results: 2021: THONGLOUN Sisoulith (LPRP) elected president; National Assembly vote - 161-1; PHANKHAM Viphavanh (LPRP) elected prime minister; National Assembly vote - 158-3
2016: BOUNNHANG Vorachit (LPRP) elected president; percent of National Assembly vote - NA; THONGLOUN Sisoulith (LPRP) elected prime minister; percent of National Assembly vote - NA
expected date of next election: March 2026
Reference: 2026, 2022, 2021, 2016head of government: Prime Minister SONEXAY (also spelled SONXAI) Siphandon (since 30 December 2022)
cabinet: Council of Ministers appointed by the president and approved by the National Assembly
election/appointment process: president and vice president indirectly elected by the National Assembly for a 5-year term (no term limits); prime minister nominated by the president, elected by the National Assembly for a 5-year term
most recent election date: 22 March 2021
election results: 2021: THONGLOUN Sisoulith (LPRP) elected president; National Assembly vote - 161-1; PHANKHAM Viphavanh (LPRP) elected prime minister; National Assembly vote - 158-3
2016: BOUNNHANG Vorachit (LPRP) elected president; percent of National Assembly vote - NA; THONGLOUN Sisoulith (LPRP) elected prime minister; percent of National Assembly vote - NA
expected date of next election: March 2026
Legislative branch
legislature name: National Assembly (Sapha Heng Xat)
legislative structure: unicameral
number of seats: 164 (all directly elected)
electoral system: plurality/majority
scope of elections: full renewal
term in office: 5 years
most recent election date: 2/21/2021
parties elected and seats per party: Lao People's Revolutionary Party (LPRP) (158); Other (6)
percentage of women in chamber: 22%
expected date of next election: February 2026
Reference: 2026, 2021legislative structure: unicameral
number of seats: 164 (all directly elected)
electoral system: plurality/majority
scope of elections: full renewal
term in office: 5 years
most recent election date: 2/21/2021
parties elected and seats per party: Lao People's Revolutionary Party (LPRP) (158); Other (6)
percentage of women in chamber: 22%
expected date of next election: February 2026
Judicial branch
highest court(s): People's Supreme Court (consists of the court president and organized into criminal, civil, administrative, commercial, family, and juvenile chambers, each with a vice president and several judges)
judge selection and term of office: president of People's Supreme Court appointed by the National Assembly upon the recommendation of the president of the republic for a 5-year term; vice presidents of the People's Supreme Court appointed by the president of the republic upon the recommendation of the National Assembly; appointment of chamber judges NA; tenure of court vice presidents and chamber judges NA
subordinate courts: appellate courts; provincial, municipal, district, and military courts
judge selection and term of office: president of People's Supreme Court appointed by the National Assembly upon the recommendation of the president of the republic for a 5-year term; vice presidents of the People's Supreme Court appointed by the president of the republic upon the recommendation of the National Assembly; appointment of chamber judges NA; tenure of court vice presidents and chamber judges NA
subordinate courts: appellate courts; provincial, municipal, district, and military courts
Political parties
Lao People's Revolutionary Party or LPRP
note: note: other parties proscribed
note: note: other parties proscribed
Diplomatic representation in the US
chief of mission: Ambassador PHOUKHONG Sisoulath (since 5 September 2025)
chancery: 2222 S Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
telephone: [1] (202) 332-6416
FAX: [1] (202) 332-4923
email address and website: embasslao@gmail.com
https://laoembassy.com/
chancery: 2222 S Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
telephone: [1] (202) 332-6416
FAX: [1] (202) 332-4923
email address and website: embasslao@gmail.com
https://laoembassy.com/
Diplomatic representation from the US
chief of mission: Ambassador Heather VARIAVA (since 5 February 2024)
embassy: Ban Somvang Tai, Thadeua Road, Km 9, Hatsayfong District, Vientiane
mailing address: 4350 Vientiane Place, Washington DC 20521-4350
telephone: [856] 21-48-7000
FAX: [856] 21-48-7040
email address and website: CONSLAO@state.gov
https://la.usembassy.gov/
Reference: 2024embassy: Ban Somvang Tai, Thadeua Road, Km 9, Hatsayfong District, Vientiane
mailing address: 4350 Vientiane Place, Washington DC 20521-4350
telephone: [856] 21-48-7000
FAX: [856] 21-48-7040
email address and website: CONSLAO@state.gov
https://la.usembassy.gov/
International organization participation
ADB, ARF, ASEAN, CP, EAS, FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, Interpol, IOC, IPU, ISO (subscriber), ITU, MIGA, NAM, OIF, OPCW, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNWTO, UPU, WCO, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Independence
19 July 1949 (from France); 22 October 1953 (Franco-Lao Treaty recognizes full independence)
Reference: 1953, 1949National holiday
Republic Day (National Day), 2 December (1975)
Reference: 1975Flag
description: three horizontal bands of red (top), blue (double-width), and red, with a large white disk centered in the blue band
meaning: red stands for the blood shed for liberation, and blue for the Mekong River and prosperity; the white disk represents the full moon over the Mekong River and the unity of the people under the Lao People's Revolutionary Party, as well as the country's bright future
meaning: red stands for the blood shed for liberation, and blue for the Mekong River and prosperity; the white disk represents the full moon over the Mekong River and the unity of the people under the Lao People's Revolutionary Party, as well as the country's bright future
National symbol(s)
elephant
National color(s)
red, white, blue
National anthem(s)
title: "Pheng Xat Lao" (Hymn of the Lao People)
lyrics/music: SISANA Sisane/THONGDY Sounthonevichit
history: music adopted 1945, lyrics adopted 1975; the anthem's lyrics were changed after the communist revolution that overthrew the monarchy in 1975
Reference: 1975, 1945lyrics/music: SISANA Sisane/THONGDY Sounthonevichit
history: music adopted 1945, lyrics adopted 1975; the anthem's lyrics were changed after the communist revolution that overthrew the monarchy in 1975
National heritage
total World Heritage Sites: 3 (all cultural)
selected World Heritage Site locales: Town of Luangphrabang; Vat Phou and Associated Ancient Settlements; Megalithic Jar Sites in Xiengkhuang - Plain of Jars
selected World Heritage Site locales: Town of Luangphrabang; Vat Phou and Associated Ancient Settlements; Megalithic Jar Sites in Xiengkhuang - Plain of Jars
Government & Official Links
| Institution | Official website | X / Twitter | Verification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laos official website | Official website | — | Reported · source Checked September 20, 2026 |
Institutional accounts only; personal accounts of political office-holders are excluded.
Legislature & Elections
Legislature
| Name | Chamber | Seats | Electoral system |
|---|---|---|---|
| National Assembly | — | 164 | — |
Economy
Economic overview
lower middle-income, industrial Southeast Asian economy; high inflation due to 2022 currency depreciation brought on by persistently high debt; new Laos-China railway and dry port; rising inequities; ongoing labor shortages
Reference: 2022Real GDP (purchasing power parity)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2024: $66.905 billion (2024 est.)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2023: $64.173 billion (2023 est.)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2022: $61.856 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2023: $64.173 billion (2023 est.)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2022: $61.856 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
Real GDP per capita
Real GDP per capita 2024: $8,600 (2024 est.)
Real GDP per capita 2023: $8,400 (2023 est.)
Real GDP per capita 2022: $8,200 (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021Real GDP per capita 2023: $8,400 (2023 est.)
Real GDP per capita 2022: $8,200 (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
GDP - composition, by sector of origin
agriculture: 16.8% (2024 est.)
industry: 29% (2024 est.)
services: 43.5% (2024 est.)
note: note: figures may not total 100% due to non-allocated consumption not captured in sector-reported data
Reference: 2024industry: 29% (2024 est.)
services: 43.5% (2024 est.)
note: note: figures may not total 100% due to non-allocated consumption not captured in sector-reported data
GDP - composition, by end use
household consumption: 65.7% (2016 est.)
government consumption: 14% (2016 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 29% (2016 est.)
investment in inventories: 0% (2016 est.)
exports of goods and services: 33.2% (2016 est.)
imports of goods and services: -41.9% (2016 est.)
note: note: figures may not total 100% due to rounding or gaps in data collection
Reference: 2016government consumption: 14% (2016 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 29% (2016 est.)
investment in inventories: 0% (2016 est.)
exports of goods and services: 33.2% (2016 est.)
imports of goods and services: -41.9% (2016 est.)
note: note: figures may not total 100% due to rounding or gaps in data collection
Agricultural products
cassava, root vegetables, rice, sugarcane, vegetables, bananas, maize, rubber, coffee, watermelons (2023)
note: note: top ten agricultural products based on tonnage
Reference: 2023note: note: top ten agricultural products based on tonnage
Industries
mining (copper, tin, gold, gypsum); timber, electric power, agricultural processing, rubber, construction, garments, cement, tourism
Industrial production growth rate
3.9% (2024 est.)
note: note: annual % change in industrial value added based on constant local currency
Reference: 2024note: note: annual % change in industrial value added based on constant local currency
Labor force
3.585 million (2024 est.)
note: note: number of people ages 15 or older who are employed or seeking work
Reference: 2024note: note: number of people ages 15 or older who are employed or seeking work
Youth unemployment rate (ages 15-24)
total: 2.2% (2024 est.)
male: 2.4% (2024 est.)
female: 2.1% (2024 est.)
note: note: % of labor force ages 15-24 seeking employment
Reference: 2024male: 2.4% (2024 est.)
female: 2.1% (2024 est.)
note: note: % of labor force ages 15-24 seeking employment
Population below poverty line
18.3% (2018 est.)
note: note: % of population with income below national poverty line
Reference: 2018note: note: % of population with income below national poverty line
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income 2018: 38.8 (2018 est.)
note: note: index (0-100) of income distribution; higher values represent greater inequality
Reference: 2018note: note: index (0-100) of income distribution; higher values represent greater inequality
Average household expenditures
on food: 50.5% of household expenditures (2023 est.)
on alcohol and tobacco: 7.8% of household expenditures (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023on alcohol and tobacco: 7.8% of household expenditures (2023 est.)
Household income or consumption by percentage share
lowest 10%: 3% (2018 est.)
highest 10%: 31.2% (2018 est.)
note: note: % share of income accruing to lowest and highest 10% of population
Reference: 2018highest 10%: 31.2% (2018 est.)
note: note: % share of income accruing to lowest and highest 10% of population
Remittances
Remittances 2023: 1.8% of GDP (2023 est.)
Remittances 2022: 1.5% of GDP (2022 est.)
Remittances 2021: 1.2% of GDP (2021 est.)
note: note: personal transfers and compensation between resident and non-resident individuals/households/entities
Reference: 2023, 2022, 2021Remittances 2022: 1.5% of GDP (2022 est.)
Remittances 2021: 1.2% of GDP (2021 est.)
note: note: personal transfers and compensation between resident and non-resident individuals/households/entities
Budget
revenues: $2.288 billion (2022 est.)
expenditures: $2.259 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: central government revenues and expenses (excluding grants/extrabudgetary units/social security funds) converted to US dollars at average official exchange rate for year indicated
Reference: 2022expenditures: $2.259 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: central government revenues and expenses (excluding grants/extrabudgetary units/social security funds) converted to US dollars at average official exchange rate for year indicated
Public debt
Public debt 2016: 58.4% of GDP (2016 est.)
Reference: 2016Taxes and other revenues
12.1% (of GDP) (2022 est.)
note: note: central government tax revenue as a % of GDP
Reference: 2022note: note: central government tax revenue as a % of GDP
Current account balance
Current account balance 2023: $404.523 million (2023 est.)
Current account balance 2022: -$458.754 million (2022 est.)
Current account balance 2021: $431.636 million (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Reference: 2023, 2022, 2021Current account balance 2022: -$458.754 million (2022 est.)
Current account balance 2021: $431.636 million (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Exports
Exports 2023: $9.698 billion (2023 est.)
Exports 2022: $8.604 billion (2022 est.)
Exports 2021: $7.82 billion (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2023, 2022, 2021Exports 2022: $8.604 billion (2022 est.)
Exports 2021: $7.82 billion (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Exports - partners
China 39%, Thailand 34%, Australia 4%, USA 4%, Cambodia 2% (2023)
note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Exports - commodities
electricity, fertilizers, gold, garments, paper (2023)
note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Imports
Imports 2023: $8.596 billion (2023 est.)
Imports 2022: $7.983 billion (2022 est.)
Imports 2021: $6.527 billion (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2023, 2022, 2021Imports 2022: $7.983 billion (2022 est.)
Imports 2021: $6.527 billion (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Imports - partners
Thailand 58%, China 36%, Japan 1%, Singapore 1%, Germany 1% (2023)
note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Imports - commodities
refined petroleum, cars, raw sugar, plastic products, trucks (2023)
note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2023: $1.77 billion (2023 est.)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2022: $1.576 billion (2022 est.)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2021: $1.951 billion (2021 est.)
note: note: holdings of gold (year-end prices)/foreign exchange/special drawing rights in current dollars
Reference: 2023, 2022, 2021Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2022: $1.576 billion (2022 est.)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2021: $1.951 billion (2021 est.)
note: note: holdings of gold (year-end prices)/foreign exchange/special drawing rights in current dollars
Debt - external
Debt - external 2023: $9.619 billion (2023 est.)
note: note: present value of external debt in current US dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: present value of external debt in current US dollars
Exchange rates
Currency: kips (LAK) per US dollar -
Exchange rates 2023: 17,688.874 (2023 est.)
Exchange rates 2022: 14,035.227 (2022 est.)
Exchange rates 2021: 9,697.916 (2021 est.)
Exchange rates 2020: 9,045.788 (2020 est.)
Exchange rates 2019: 8,679.409 (2019 est.)
Reference: 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020Exchange rates 2023: 17,688.874 (2023 est.)
Exchange rates 2022: 14,035.227 (2022 est.)
Exchange rates 2021: 9,697.916 (2021 est.)
Exchange rates 2020: 9,045.788 (2020 est.)
Exchange rates 2019: 8,679.409 (2019 est.)
Trade
Current account balance
Current account balance 2023: $404.523 million (2023 est.)
Current account balance 2022: -$458.754 million (2022 est.)
Current account balance 2021: $431.636 million (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Reference: 2023, 2022, 2021Current account balance 2022: -$458.754 million (2022 est.)
Current account balance 2021: $431.636 million (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Exports
Exports 2023: $9.698 billion (2023 est.)
Exports 2022: $8.604 billion (2022 est.)
Exports 2021: $7.82 billion (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2023, 2022, 2021Exports 2022: $8.604 billion (2022 est.)
Exports 2021: $7.82 billion (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Exports - partners
China 39%, Thailand 34%, Australia 4%, USA 4%, Cambodia 2% (2023)
note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Exports - commodities
electricity, fertilizers, gold, garments, paper (2023)
note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Imports
Imports 2023: $8.596 billion (2023 est.)
Imports 2022: $7.983 billion (2022 est.)
Imports 2021: $6.527 billion (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2023, 2022, 2021Imports 2022: $7.983 billion (2022 est.)
Imports 2021: $6.527 billion (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Imports - partners
Thailand 58%, China 36%, Japan 1%, Singapore 1%, Germany 1% (2023)
note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Imports - commodities
refined petroleum, cars, raw sugar, plastic products, trucks (2023)
note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Energy & Resources
Electricity
installed generating capacity: 12.738 million kW (2023 est.)
consumption: 12.803 billion kWh (2023 est.)
exports: 38 billion kWh (2023 est.)
imports: 955.095 million kWh (2023 est.)
transmission/distribution losses: 2.447 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023consumption: 12.803 billion kWh (2023 est.)
exports: 38 billion kWh (2023 est.)
imports: 955.095 million kWh (2023 est.)
transmission/distribution losses: 2.447 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Electricity generation sources
fossil fuels: 23.3% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
solar: 0.2% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
hydroelectricity: 76.5% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
biomass and waste: 0.1% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023solar: 0.2% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
hydroelectricity: 76.5% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
biomass and waste: 0.1% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Coal
production: 16.629 million metric tons (2023 est.)
consumption: 15.944 million metric tons (2023 est.)
exports: 1.065 million metric tons (2023 est.)
imports: 22,000 metric tons (2023 est.)
proven reserves: 62 million metric tons (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023consumption: 15.944 million metric tons (2023 est.)
exports: 1.065 million metric tons (2023 est.)
imports: 22,000 metric tons (2023 est.)
proven reserves: 62 million metric tons (2023 est.)
Petroleum
refined petroleum consumption: 25,000 bbl/day (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Energy consumption per capita
Total energy consumption per capita 2023: 34.463 million Btu/person (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Infrastructure
Telephones - fixed lines
total subscriptions: 1.3 million (2021 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 18 (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022, 2021subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 18 (2022 est.)
Health
Maternal mortality ratio
112 deaths/100,000 live births (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Health expenditure
Health expenditure (as % of GDP): 2.7% of GDP (2021)
Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 4.3% of national budget (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022, 2021Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 4.3% of national budget (2022 est.)
Physician density
0.33 physicians/1,000 population (2022)
Reference: 2022Hospital bed density
1.3 beds/1,000 population (2021 est.)
Reference: 2021Obesity - adult prevalence rate
5.3% (2016)
Reference: 2016Tobacco use
total: 24.1% (2025 est.)
male: 41% (2025 est.)
female: 7.2% (2025 est.)
male: 41% (2025 est.)
female: 7.2% (2025 est.)
Education
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education)
total: 9 years (2023 est.)
male: 9 years (2023 est.)
female: 9 years (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023male: 9 years (2023 est.)
female: 9 years (2023 est.)
Rights, Freedoms & Society
Press & Media Freedom
V-Dem expert-coded/modelled source measures. Knelstrom does not create a press-freedom ranking or composite score.
LGBTQ+ Rights & Law
Concrete legal-status fields only; Knelstrom does not generate an LGBTQ rights score or country ranking.
Source: Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory (CC BY-SA 4.0). Community-edited legal-status summary; retrieved by Knelstrom and not legal advice.
Crime & Justice
Legal system
civil law system similar in form to the French system
Judicial branch
highest court(s): People's Supreme Court (consists of the court president and organized into criminal, civil, administrative, commercial, family, and juvenile chambers, each with a vice president and several judges)
judge selection and term of office: president of People's Supreme Court appointed by the National Assembly upon the recommendation of the president of the republic for a 5-year term; vice presidents of the People's Supreme Court appointed by the president of the republic upon the recommendation of the National Assembly; appointment of chamber judges NA; tenure of court vice presidents and chamber judges NA
subordinate courts: appellate courts; provincial, municipal, district, and military courts
judge selection and term of office: president of People's Supreme Court appointed by the National Assembly upon the recommendation of the president of the republic for a 5-year term; vice presidents of the People's Supreme Court appointed by the president of the republic upon the recommendation of the National Assembly; appointment of chamber judges NA; tenure of court vice presidents and chamber judges NA
subordinate courts: appellate courts; provincial, municipal, district, and military courts
Military & Security
Military and security forces
Lao People's Armed Forces (LPAF; aka Lao People's Army): Lao People's Army (LPA, includes Riverine Force), Lao People's Air Force (LPAF); Self-Defense Militia Forces (2025)
note: note: the Ministry of Public Security maintains internal security and is responsible for law enforcement; it oversees local, traffic, immigration, and security police, village police auxiliaries, and other armed police units
note: note: the Ministry of Public Security maintains internal security and is responsible for law enforcement; it oversees local, traffic, immigration, and security police, village police auxiliaries, and other armed police units
Military expenditures
Military Expenditures 2019: 0.2% of GDP (2019 est.)
Military Expenditures 2018: 0.2% of GDP (2018 est.)
Military Expenditures 2017: 0.2% of GDP (2017 est.)
Military Expenditures 2016: 0.2% of GDP (2016 est.)
Military Expenditures 2015: 0.2% of GDP (2015 est.)
Reference: 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016Military Expenditures 2018: 0.2% of GDP (2018 est.)
Military Expenditures 2017: 0.2% of GDP (2017 est.)
Military Expenditures 2016: 0.2% of GDP (2016 est.)
Military Expenditures 2015: 0.2% of GDP (2015 est.)
Military and security service personnel strengths
information limited and varied; estimated 30,000 active Armed Forces; estimated 100,000 Self-Defense Militia Forces (2025)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions
the LPAF is armed with Chinese, Russian, and Soviet-era equipment and weapons (2024)
Reference: 2024Military service age and obligation
18 years of age for compulsory or voluntary military service; minimum 18-month service obligation (2023)
Reference: 2023Military - note
the LPAF’s primary missions are border and internal security, including counterinsurgency, counterterrorism, and counter-narcotics operations, as well as protecting the regime; its defense partners include Cambodia, China, Russia, and Vietnam (2025)
International Relations
International law organization participation
has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; non-party state to the ICCt
Diplomatic representation in the US
chief of mission: Ambassador PHOUKHONG Sisoulath (since 5 September 2025)
chancery: 2222 S Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
telephone: [1] (202) 332-6416
FAX: [1] (202) 332-4923
email address and website: embasslao@gmail.com
https://laoembassy.com/
chancery: 2222 S Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
telephone: [1] (202) 332-6416
FAX: [1] (202) 332-4923
email address and website: embasslao@gmail.com
https://laoembassy.com/
Diplomatic representation from the US
chief of mission: Ambassador Heather VARIAVA (since 5 February 2024)
embassy: Ban Somvang Tai, Thadeua Road, Km 9, Hatsayfong District, Vientiane
mailing address: 4350 Vientiane Place, Washington DC 20521-4350
telephone: [856] 21-48-7000
FAX: [856] 21-48-7040
email address and website: CONSLAO@state.gov
https://la.usembassy.gov/
Reference: 2024embassy: Ban Somvang Tai, Thadeua Road, Km 9, Hatsayfong District, Vientiane
mailing address: 4350 Vientiane Place, Washington DC 20521-4350
telephone: [856] 21-48-7000
FAX: [856] 21-48-7040
email address and website: CONSLAO@state.gov
https://la.usembassy.gov/
International organization participation
ADB, ARF, ASEAN, CP, EAS, FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, Interpol, IOC, IPU, ISO (subscriber), ITU, MIGA, NAM, OIF, OPCW, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNWTO, UPU, WCO, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Treaties & Organisations
| Organisation | Status | Joined |
|---|---|---|
| ASEAN (ASEAN) | member | 1997-07-23 |
| United Nations (UN) | member | 1955-12-14 |
International law organization participation
has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; non-party state to the ICCt
International organization participation
ADB, ARF, ASEAN, CP, EAS, FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, Interpol, IOC, IPU, ISO (subscriber), ITU, MIGA, NAM, OIF, OPCW, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNWTO, UPU, WCO, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Conflict & Security
Refugees and internally displaced persons
IDPs: 1,274 (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Trafficking in persons
tier rating: Tier 3 — Laos does not fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking and is not making significant efforts to do so, therefore, Laos was downgraded to Tier 3; for more details, go to: https://www.state.gov/reports/2025-trafficking-in-persons-report/laos/
Illicit drugs
USG identification: major illicit drug-producing and/or drug-transit country (2025)
Transportation & Logistics
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix
RDPL
Airports
20 (2025)
Railways
total: 422 km (2023)
standard gauge: 422 km (2023) 1.435-m gauge (422 km overhead electrification)
Reference: 2023standard gauge: 422 km (2023) 1.435-m gauge (422 km overhead electrification)
Merchant marine
total: 1 (2023)
by type: general cargo 1
Reference: 2023by type: general cargo 1
Environment
Environmental issues
unexploded ordnance; deforestation; soil erosion; loss of biodiversity; water pollution; limited access to potable water
International environmental agreements
party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands, Whaling
signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements
signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements
Climate
tropical monsoon; rainy season (May to November); dry season (December to April)
Land use
agricultural land: 9.9% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 5.3% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 1.7% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 2.9% (2023 est.)
forest: 56.8% (2023 est.)
other: 33.3% (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 5.3% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 1.7% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 2.9% (2023 est.)
forest: 56.8% (2023 est.)
other: 33.3% (2023 est.)
Urbanization
urban population: 38.2% of total population (2023)
rate of urbanization: 2.99% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Reference: 2023, 2020rate of urbanization: 2.99% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Carbon dioxide emissions
total emissions: 23.412 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
from coal and metallurgical coke: 19.652 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
from petroleum and other liquids: 3.76 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023from coal and metallurgical coke: 19.652 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
from petroleum and other liquids: 3.76 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
Particulate matter emissions
20.5 micrograms per cubic meter (2019 est.)
Reference: 2019Waste and recycling
municipal solid waste generated annually: 351,900 tons (2024 est.)
percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 15.1% (2022 est.)
Reference: 2024, 2022percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 15.1% (2022 est.)
Total water withdrawal
municipal: 130 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
industrial: 170 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
agricultural: 7.05 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022industrial: 170 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
agricultural: 7.05 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
Total renewable water resources
333.5 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022Communications & Media
Telephones - fixed lines
total subscriptions: 1.3 million (2021 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 18 (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022, 2021subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 18 (2022 est.)
Broadcast media
6 TV stations operating out of Vientiane, with half state-operated and half commercial; 17 provincial stations, with nearly all programming relayed via satellite from the state-operated stations in Vientiane; multi-channel satellite and cable TV systems provide access to a wide range of foreign stations; state-controlled radio with state-operated Lao National Radio (LNR) broadcasting on 5 frequencies; transmissions of multiple international broadcasters are accessible
Internet country code
.la
Historical Trends
Population
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View Population data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 6,908,802 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2017 | 7,018,147 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2018 | 7,128,045 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2019 | 7,237,636 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2020 | 7,346,533 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2021 | 7,453,194 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2022 | 7,559,007 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2023 | 7,664,993 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | 7,769,819 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2025 | 7,873,046 | world_bank_wdi |
GDP (current US$)
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View GDP (current US$) data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | $15,912,501,723 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2017 | $17,071,155,481 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2018 | $18,141,641,090 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2019 | $18,740,561,513 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2020 | $18,981,805,250 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2021 | $18,827,148,531 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2022 | $15,468,785,204 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2023 | $15,843,155,731 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | $16,502,933,121 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2025 | $18,302,970,219 | world_bank_wdi |
International migrant stock (immigrants)
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View International migrant stock (immigrants) data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 48,731 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | 51,446 | world_bank_wdi |
International emigrant stock
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View International emigrant stock data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 1990 | 311,756 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 1995 | 359,736 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2000 | 363,370 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2005 | 471,052 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2010 | 563,709 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2015 | 598,860 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2020 | 609,093 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2024 | 660,258 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
Net migration
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View Net migration data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | -11,401 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2017 | -10,400 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2018 | -10,305 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2019 | -10,305 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2020 | -10,305 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2021 | -10,305 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2022 | -10,003 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2023 | -10,003 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | -10,284 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2025 | -10,645 | world_bank_wdi |
Sources & Methodology
Current statistical observations include their reference period and provenance. Reference fields from approved source datasets are attributed below. Missing information is left unknown rather than inferred.
| Indicator | Value | Period | Source | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 7,873,046 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| UN Population Division population estimate | 7,974,018 | 2026 | UN Population Division Data Portal | Estimated |
| Wikidata population (fallback) | 6,858,160 | 2017 | Wikidata | Reported |
| International migrant stock (immigrants) | 51,446 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| International migrant stock | 0.7% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| International emigrant stock | 660,258 | 2024 | UN DESA International Migrant Stock 2024 | Estimated |
| Net migration | -10,645 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Refugees from this country | 6,489 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Asylum seekers from this country | 466 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Freedom of expression & alternative information index | 0.032 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Government censorship effort — media | -1.483 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Harassment of journalists | -2.290 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Print/broadcast media critical of government | -2.889 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Range of perspectives in major media | -2.694 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Media bias | -3.006 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Media self-censorship | -2.671 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Same-sex sexual activity | Yes Yes Legal | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Same-sex marriage | No No | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Same-sex adoption | No No | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Open military service | Ambiguous Ambiguous | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Sexual-orientation anti-discrimination law | No No/ Yes Limited Bans some anti-gay discrimination | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Gender identity / expression law | Ambiguous Ambiguous | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| GDP (current US$) | $18,302,970,219 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| GDP per capita (current US$) | $2,325 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| GDP growth | 4.5% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Inflation, consumer prices | 7.7% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Unemployment | 1.2% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Income level | Lower middle income | current | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Life expectancy at birth | 69.2 years | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Fertility rate | 2.4 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Urban population | 40.3% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Individuals using the Internet | 65.6% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Exports of goods and services | 33.2% | 2016 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Imports of goods and services | 41.9% | 2016 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Trade | 75.1% | 2016 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Adult literacy rate | 75.6% | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Secondary school enrolment, gross | 50.5% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Government education expenditure | 1.2% | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Access to electricity | 96.5% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Electric power consumption | 1,665 kWh/person | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Renewable energy consumption | 49.2% | 2022 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Current health expenditure | 1.3% | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Infant mortality rate | 27.2 per 1,000 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Forest area | 71.5% | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Mobile cellular subscriptions | 64.8 per 100 | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Fixed broadband subscriptions | 2.7 per 100 | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Secure Internet servers | 302 per million | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Latitude | 18.5826° | current | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Longitude | 102.1770° | current | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Latitude (Wikidata) | 18.2000° | current | Wikidata | Reported |
| Longitude (Wikidata) | 104.1000° | current | Wikidata | Reported |
| Time zone | UTC+07:00, Asia/Vientiane | current | Wikidata | Reported |
| Form of government | people's republic, communist dictatorship | current | Wikidata | Reported |
Data attribution
Credits below are generated from sources actually used by this country profile. Source-specific terms take precedence.
- CIA World Factbook, final 2025 country profile (structured via factbook.json). Accessed September 20, 2026. U.S. Government public-domain data; retained as a reference source where a newer approved field is not available. Source · Terms/licence
- United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division, International Migrant Stock 2024; data access/processing via Our World in Data. Accessed September 20, 2026. Underlying UN dataset used under CC BY 3.0 IGO. Source · Terms/licence
- United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division, World Population Prospects (WPP indicator 49) Accessed September 19, 2026. Used under CC BY 3.0 IGO; current-year WPP population values are presented as estimates/projections where applicable. Source · Terms/licence
- UNHCR Refugee Population Statistics Database. Accessed September 19, 2026. Used under CC BY 4.0 except where a dataset identifies a different source or licence. Source · Terms/licence
- Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem), Country-Year Dataset v16 (variables: v2mebias, v2mecenefm, v2mecrit, v2meharjrn, v2merange, v2meslfcen, v2x_freexp_altinf) Accessed September 20, 2026. Used under CC BY-SA 4.0; V-Dem measures are expert-coded/modelled and no V-Dem endorsement is implied. Source · Terms/licence
- Wikidata structured data (CC0). Accessed September 20, 2026. Attribution is provided by Knelstrom for provenance although CC0 does not require it. Source · Terms/licence
- Wikipedia, “LGBTQ rights by country or territory” (source revision/data fields: Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Gender identity / expression law, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Open military service, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Same-sex adoption, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Same-sex marriage, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Same-sex sexual activity, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Sexual-orientation anti-discrimination law) Accessed September 20, 2026. Used under CC BY-SA 4.0. Knelstrom changes formatting and presents the imported material as a community-edited legal-status summary, not legal advice or a Knelstrom rights score. Source · Terms/licence
- World Bank, World Development Indicators (series: AG.LND.FRST.ZS, country_metadata, EG.ELC.ACCS.ZS, EG.FEC.RNEW.ZS, EG.USE.ELEC.KH.PC, FP.CPI.TOTL.ZG, IT.CEL.SETS.P2, IT.NET.BBND.P2, IT.NET.SECR.P6, IT.NET.USER.ZS, NE.EXP.GNFS.ZS, NE.IMP.GNFS.ZS, NE.TRD.GNFS.ZS, NY.GDP.MKTP.CD, NY.GDP.MKTP.KD.ZG, NY.GDP.PCAP.CD, SE.ADT.LITR.ZS, SE.SEC.ENRR, SE.XPD.TOTL.GD.ZS, SH.XPD.CHEX.GD.ZS, SL.UEM.TOTL.ZS, SM.POP.ASYS.EO, SM.POP.NETM, SM.POP.RHCR.EO, SM.POP.TOTL, SM.POP.TOTL.ZS, SP.DYN.IMRT.IN, SP.DYN.LE00.IN, SP.DYN.TFRT.IN, SP.POP.TOTL, SP.URB.TOTL.IN.ZS) Accessed September 20, 2026. Data used under CC BY 4.0; Knelstrom presentation/formatting may differ from the source. Source · Terms/licence
Knelstrom does not imply endorsement by any listed data provider.
Last automated statistical refresh: 2026-09-20 02:05:17