On January 25, 2023, at Lao Plaza Hotel, the Department of Enterprise Registration and Management, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce inaugurated the Inventory Business Licenses Portal (www.bned.moic.gov.la). This portal has been designed to provide a user-friendly platform for businesses, both domestic and foreign investors, allowing them convenient and straightforward access to regulatory requirements. The aim is to save time and reduce the complexities associated with seeking information from various involved sectors.
The launching ceremony was presided over by H.E Mrs. Chanhsouk Sengphachanh, Deputy-Minister of Industry and Commerce, Dr. Xaybandith Ladsaphon, Vice Chairman of the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Mrs. Melise Jaud, a representative from the World Bank. The ceremony was honored by the presence of Deputy Ministers from relevant ministries, Ambassadors, representatives of International Organizations, Director Generals, Deputy Director Generals, members of the Coordinating Committee for Business License Improvement from various sectors, representatives of the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Business Section, and technical officers from the Department of Enterprise Registration and Management, totaling 150 participants.
The Lao PDR Inventory Business Licenses Portal (IBL), hosted on www.bned.moic.gov.la, serves as an online catalog that consolidates information on all licensing regulations, certificates, and other government authorizations from different licensing authorities. It encompasses legislation, regulations, procedures, deadlines, costs, required documents, and a list of permissible activities for which businesses need permits from various sectors.
The IBL Portal is anticipated to have a lasting impact and presents a significant opportunity to enhance the business environment and improve the interaction between citizens and the Government. It is expected to foster greater trust and enhance the perception of government services.
"Streamlining and simplifying the licensing system in Lao PDR is an important reform to support the growth and prosperity of the business community. The website will also aid the government in promoting ease of doing business in the country," remarked Melise Jaud, a representative from the World Bank.
The IBL Website is made possible through the support of the Lao PDR Competitiveness and Trade project (LCT), implemented by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce. This project receives technical and financial assistance from the World Bank, along with additional financial contributions from Australia, Ireland, and the United States. Its objective is to remove barriers to private sector-led growth by improving the regulatory environment, reducing trade costs, and enhancing firm-level competitiveness.
