ERIA–MOIC Workshop Advances Lao PDR’s Preparedness on AI and Digital Trade under ASEAN DEFA

Vientiane, 9-10 December 2025: The Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Digital Trade Workshop, held in Vientiane on 9-10 December 2025, marked an important milestone in Lao PDR's engagement with AI as a key trade and development issue. Organised by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MOIC) in partnership with ERIA, with support from the Government of Australia, the workshop aimed to strengthen Lao PDR's technical capacity and preparedness for negotiations and implementation under the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA).

The workshop pursued two main objectives: deepening understanding of AI and digital trade, and enhancing readiness amongst Lao PDR and ASEAN Member States (AMS) for effective collaboration and implementation in an increasingly digitalised economy.

In his opening remarks, Mr Sengalune Vilaysack, Deputy Director General of the Department of Negotiations and Cooperation at MOIC, emphasised the importance of raising awareness of AI and digital trade as key drivers of modern industry and socio-economic development. He noted that these technologies play a critical role in improving business efficiency, reducing costs, and fostering innovation, while regional initiatives such as DEFA continue to expand into areas of growing importance for ASEAN markets.

Mr Allen Ai, First Secretary at the Australian Embassy in Vientiane, reaffirmed Australia's commitment to promoting innovation and productivity while mitigating risks related to privacy, diversity, and national sovereignty. He highlighted Australia's support for the workshop, noting that it contributes to strengthening technical capacity, regulatory readiness, and the adoption of best practices in preparation for DEFA implementation.

Dr Takayuki Yamanaka, Chief Operating Officer of ERIA, underscored ERIA's ongoing work on AI and digital trade. He noted that the workshop provided a valuable platform to reflect on key issues, including ASEAN's AI vision and roadmaps, global developments in AI governance, and emerging regulatory frameworks shaping digital trade.

Day 1 focused on DEFA negotiation outcomes, regional policy frameworks, and international best practices. Mr Pyyatham Inphayalath from MOIC presented Lao PDR's timeline towards signing ASEAN DEFA by the end of next year and shared updates on national regulatory frameworks supporting the digital economy. Dr Randeep Kaur, Digital and AI Policy Economist at ERIA, outlined ASEAN's AI Vision and Roadmaps. International experts, including Dr Eric Mousset and Dr Anna Mysyshyn, provided insights on AI governance, regulation, ethics, and cybersecurity.

Day 2 examined the current state of play and future directions for Lao PDR. The morning session featured a panel discussion on AI applications in trade and digital commerce, with contributions from Mr Vannapha Southivong (Vice President of LIDA and CEO of Lailaolab ICT Solution), Mr Sounay Phothisane (Managing Director of AQQOUNT), Mr Grégoire Martel (Director of Open SPP), and Dr Silivanxay Phetsouvanh (Deputy Director, Department of Digital Technology, Ministry of Technology and Communications).

Dr Phinith Chanthalangsy from UNESCO shared preliminary recommendations from the Lao AI Readiness Assessment Report, while Dr Belinda Lucas presented findings on AI adoption with a focus on gender equality, disability, and social inclusion.

Throughout the discussions, participants emphasised the importance of inclusive and structured approaches to AI and digital trade. The workshop highlighted the need to ensure that ASEAN's digital transformation supports equitable growth and delivers benefits across all member states. The sessions were facilitated by Mr Sven Callebaut, with closing remarks delivered by Dr Randeep Kaur.