Laos/Economy

Economy of Laos

An overview of key economic indicators. Select a category for detailed trends, charts, and insights.

Explore Economic Domains

Growth & Output

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GDP (USD)
$15.8B(2023)
GDP PPP (USD)
$71.2B(2023)
GDP per Capita (USD)
$2,067(2023)
GDP Growth (inflation-adjusted)
3.7%(2023)
Inflation (CPI Annual %)
23.1%(2024)

Trade & Finance

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Exports (as share of GDP)
33.2%(2016)
Imports (as share of GDP)
41.9%(2016)
FDI Inflows (as share of GDP)
11.2%(2023)
Remittance Inflow (USD)
$287.2M(2023)
Tax Revenue (as share of GDP)
12.1%(2022)

Labor & Income

Coming Soon
Unemployment Rate
1.2%(2024)
Employment in Services
23%(2023)
Poverty Rate
18.3%(2018)
GINI Index
38.8(2018)
GNI per Capita (USD)
$2,110(2023)

Energy & Environment

Coming Soon
Energy Use per Capita
815 kg oil eq.(2022)
Renewable Energy Consumption (%)
49.2%(2022)

Economic Snapshot Overview

A summary of key economic indicators for Laos

  • The economic architecture of Laos is substantial, anchored by a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of approximately $15.84B
    2023
    . This places it as the 132nd largest economy out of 191 countries measured, underscoring its significance on the world stage. On a per capita basis, GDP stands at $2.07K
    2023
    , while its GDP in Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) terms is estimated at $71.22B, reflecting the population's domestic purchasing power. The economy demonstrates solid growth, expanding at a rate of 3.7%
    2023
    , but this is challenged by high inflation, with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) at 23.1%
    2024
    .
  • On the global stage, the nation's trade and financial dynamics reveal a complex interplay of factors. The nation runs a trade deficit, with exports at 33.2% of GDP and imports at 41.9%
    2016
    . Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows are significant, constituting 11.24% of the economy
    2023
    . This performance positions the country 14th globally out of 186 nations, indicating its relative attractiveness to foreign capital. Additionally, personal remittances received amount to a substantial $287.19M annually
    2023
    , highlighting the economic importance of its diaspora. The government faces fiscal constraints, with tax revenue representing only 12.1% of GDP
    2022
    .
  • The socio-economic landscape is characterized by a Gross National Income (GNI) per capita of $2,110
    2023
    . Globally, this ranks the nation 147th out of 190 in terms of GNI per capita, providing a clear measure of its national wealth relative to others. The labor market is robust, with a low unemployment rate of 1.2%
    2024
    . The services sector is a primary driver of the labor market, accounting for 23.0% of total employment
    2023
    . Poverty remains a key issue, with 18.3% of the population living below the national poverty line
    2018
    . There is a moderate level of income inequality, with a Gini index of 38.8
    2018
    .
  • On the environment and energy front, energy consumption per capita is 815.087 kg of oil equivalent
    2022
    . The country is a leader in clean energy, with renewable sources making up 49.2% of total final energy consumption
    2022
    . Its commitment to clean energy places it 141st among 190 countries for its share of renewable energy consumption.

Key Economic Insights

Macroeconomic Health

Runaway inflation is the most pressing economic threat, eroding purchasing power and creating instability.

Trade & Investment Profile

The degree of openness to trade and foreign investment is a major determinant of economic structure and resilience.

Social Equity & Distribution

Distributing the benefits of economic growth equitably is crucial for social cohesion and long-term stability.

Energy & Sustainability

A strong commitment to renewable energy positions the country as a leader in the green transition, potentially creating new economic advantages.

More About This Country

Neighbors & Regional Peers

Note: The information on this page has been compiled from authoritative sources. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, please note that some figures may not be current or entirely precise.