LamoPay Goes Live: Laos and Vietnam Embrace Digital Payments for Tourism and Trade

Lao and Vietnamese officials attend the official launch

of the LamoPay in Vientiane on July 18.

PHOTO: VIENTIANE TIMES

A New Chapter in Cross-Border Cooperation

In a significant move to boost regional tourism and economic ties, Laos and Vietnam officially launched LamoPay, a digital e-wallet platform, on July 18 in Vientiane. Designed to streamline transactions between the two neighbouring countries, LamoPay is set to play a key role in enhancing cross-border tourism and e-commerce, especially for travellers and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

The launch event, which took place during a high-level seminar on digital trade collaboration, signals a forward-looking partnership built on convenience, innovation, and shared prosperity.

Cashless Convenience for Travellers

One of the most immediate benefits of LamoPay is its ability to simplify spending for tourists. With digital payments becoming the norm across Asia, the e-wallet will allow visitors from both countries to make secure, cashless transactions for everything from hotel stays and transportation to dining and shopping.

As Laos and Vietnam continue to attract cross-border visitors seeking authentic cultural experiences, LamoPay is expected to offer a seamless payment solution that matches modern travel expectations.

Empowering Small Businesses in the Digital Economy

LamoPay is not just about convenience for tourists—it is also a powerful tool for SMEs operating in both countries. By facilitating fast, secure digital transactions, the platform helps businesses tap into new customer bases and navigate the growing digital economy without the traditional costs and complexities of cross-border finance.

During the seminar, Vietnamese Ambassador to Laos, Nguyen Minh Tam, highlighted the strategic importance of e-commerce in breaking down geographical and logistical barriers, allowing businesses to reach consumers in neighbouring markets more directly than ever before.

Policy and Investment Backing the Digital Shift

With over 100 attendees, including policymakers, trade experts, and entrepreneurs, the event spotlighted both nations’ strong commitment to building a thriving digital ecosystem. Director General of the Lao Department of Foreign Trade, Kingsadone Phetdaoheuang, underscored the broader vision behind LamoPay—developing an integrated platform that supports tourism, commerce, and long-term digital cooperation.

The seminar also showcased a growing trend of Vietnamese investment in Laos, with US$191.1 million invested in 2024 alone—a 62.1 percent increase from the previous year. These financial flows further reinforce the importance of LamoPay as part of a broader digital infrastructure that supports economic growth on both sides of the border.

Expanding the Ecosystem: Beyond LamoPay

LamoPay’s launch is only one part of a larger digital shift. Discussions during the seminar explored the role of platforms like LaoApp, along with partnerships between technology firms such as LaoApp-Unitel (Laos) and Vivina-Technology Group Co., Ltd. (Vietnam), in shaping the future of digital commerce in the region.

Laos

A representative from the Vietnamese-Lao company AZ (VLCO) reiterated the company’s dedication to building a bridge for legal, financial, and operational cooperation, making it easier for businesses to navigate new markets and regulations.

To support this digital transition further, the Lao government has launched e-commerce websites like www.laoproduct.com.la for domestic trade and www.laoproduct.com.cn for trade with China—helping local products reach wider audiences through digital platforms.

Looking Ahead

As Laos and Vietnam move deeper into the digital era, the launch of LamoPay represents more than just a new payment app—it’s a symbol of regional collaboration, economic innovation, and the kind of travel experience that modern tourists increasingly expect. With a focus on seamless integration, inclusivity, and support for small businesses, LamoPay may well become a blueprint for other cross-border digital initiatives across Southeast Asia.

For tourism and travel updates between Laos and Vietnam, visit:
Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism – Laos: https://www.tourismlaos.org/

Vietnam National Administration of Tourism: https://vietnamtourism.gov.vn/en

For more information about Mekong tourism and regional updates, visit:
Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office
Website: www.mekongtourism.org
Email: info@mekongtourism-mtco.org

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