China reclaims top foreign investor spot in 2016
China overtook Vietnam to reclaim the number one position as the largest foreign investor in Laos last year, according to an annual report from the Ministry of Planning and Investment. China’s investment last year soared to over US$1 billion compared to US$88.9 million in 2015 while Vietnam’s investment decreased by US$4.5 million in 2016 after registering US$466 million in 2015. Most of the investments are focused on the hydropower, mining and agriculture sectors. Last year, through the ministry, six countries invested over US$1.55 billion in Laos in 25 major projects.
