On 29 August 2025, H.E. Ms. Morakot Sriswasdi, Ambassador of Thailand to the Lao PDR, presided over the handover ceremony of funding support for equipment to selected model community enterprises in Lao PDR, through the Ministry of Industry and Commerce of the Lao PDR. The ceremony took place at Ekalak Bamboo Enterprise, Chanthabuly District, Vientiane Capital, and was attended by Dr. Manothong Vongxay, Vice Minister of Industry and Commerce, who received the contribution on behalf of the Ministry. The total funding amounted to 300,000 baht. In this occasion, Senior officials from the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, representatives of the beneficiary enterprises, officials of the Royal Thai Embassy, and other relevant agencies were also present.
The financial support was provided under the project “Support for Model Community Enterprises for Sustainable Growth in line with Royal Initiative Projects and Alternative Development in Lao PDR.” The project aims to strengthen grassroots economic development and foster development cooperation between the two countries. Two enterprises were selected to receive this support:
1. Ekalak Bamboo Enterprise from Thongtoum Village, Chanthabuly District, Vientiane Capital, which produces handicrafts made of bamboo, rattan, cotton, and silk, including bamboo–rattan handbags combined with cotton and silk, bamboo furniture, and bamboo–rattan mixed products.
2. Phonemee Handicraft Promotion Center (Pa Kham Saen Handicraft) from Phonemee Village, Phonhong District, Vientiane Province, which produces handwoven fabrics for clothing, scarves, tablecloths, traditional patterned cloths for home decoration, as well as bamboo–rattan bags, cotton textiles, and souvenirs for tourists utilizing local natural resources.
In addition, a knowledge-sharing session was organized with contributions from Thai experts, including Mr. Apichart Phonbuakhai, a community leader and local wisdom scholar, together with the Ban Non Kok Ancient Weaving Group from Udonthani Province. They shared experiences and best practices in developing successful community enterprises. This exchange is expected to enhance production capacity, management, and marketing skills of Lao community enterprises.
This initiative is not only a financial and technical contribution to community enterprises but also a reflection of the close and special relationship between Thailand and Lao PDR. Held on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of Thai–Lao diplomatic relations, it reaffirms the shared commitment to improving the quality of life at the community level, preserving cultural heritage, and promoting deeper bilateral cooperation.