In brief
In October, Laos recorded a 7.7% inflation rate, marginally lower than September’s 7.8%, according to the Lao Statistics Bureau. The spike came from a 29.6% rise in housing, water, electricity and gas, with education, communications and transport also contributing. The central bank aims to maintain inflation under 7% in 2026 to support macroeconomic stability.
Laos’ inflation rate was reported at 7.7% for October, a slight decline from 7.8% in September, according to a release by the Lao Statistics Bureau cited by Xinhua on Oct. 28.
The October surge was dominated by a 29.6% rise in the housing, water, electricity and gas category, with education, communications, transport and medical care categories also pushing prices upwards.
Rising prices for basic utilities, fuel and food items—including electricity, fuel, beef, poultry, fish and seasonal goods—were cited as key drivers of the month’s inflation.
The Lao central bank has set a target to keep average inflation below seven percent in 2026, aiming to preserve macroeconomic stability and confidence in the Lao kip.
