January 21, 2020 – The Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) Lao team co-hosted a half-day workshop on the development of policy, technical standards and financing measures for electric vehicles (EV) in partnership and coordination with the Department of Transport (DOT) of the Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MPWT). This event brought together 70+ representatives from ministries, state-owned enterprises, associations, the private sector, and development partners. Deputy Minister of MPWT,Mr. Viengsavath Siphandone, and Country Representative of GGGI Laos, Dr. Jason Lee, co-chaired the event.

Since early 2019, GGGI and DOT have conducted an in-depth analysis of economic and environmental impacts for adopting more sustainable transport options in Lao PDR and developed policy recommendations and technical standards for electric vehicles. The objectives of the workshop were to present the current regulatory setting for motor vehicles and to share the study results along with proposed policy recommendations and technical standards. The workshop also introduced a number of exciting initiatives relevant to electric vehicles including installation of charging stations, app-based electric tuk-tuks, and electric buses for Vientiane. GGGI ‘s Principal Transport Specialist, Dr. James Kang and Green Finance Specialist, Mr. Christophe Assicot, led the technical team.

Participants were optimistic in the foreseeable future of electric vehicle entrants into the market and country. As Lao PDR works toward global and ASEAN harmonization of the standards and regulations, the progression of the electric vehicle market and sector will transition and transform accordingly. It is an exciting time to be involved and contribute to the development of EVs and the reduction of carbon emissions in the transport sector for Lao PDR.