The Governor of Xekong province, Leklay Sivilay, speaks to the local media during his participation at a recent meeting of cabinet members in Vientiane. - Photo: Vientiane Times/ANN
VIENTIANE: Xekong province is setting ambitious goals for 2025, aiming to transform its economy and reduce poverty while maintaining a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
With a clear focus on rural development, environmental protection and economic independence, the province is poised to write a new chapter in its history, moving from being a government-dependent region to a model of self-reliance and growth.
The province’s Governor, Leklay Sivilay, recently told the media in Vientiane while attending the second open meeting of cabinet members that Xekong plans to accelerate development through strategic foreign and domestic investments and key projects in wind energy, mining and coal exploration.
By prioritising rural development and self-sufficiency, Xekong is determined to transition from being one of Laos’ poorest provinces to a significant contributor to the national economy.
In 2025, the province will focus on creating an independent economy by mobilising resources to enhance local livelihoods.
Efforts will target poverty alleviation, particularly in districts such as Kaleum and Dakcheung and parts of Lamam, where poverty rates remain high, Leklay said.
He emphasised the importance of using available resources and encouraging the active participation of communities in development projects.
To achieve these goals, Xekong aims to attract large-scale investments, particularly in sustainable industries.
The province’s flagship projects include a 600-megawatt wind energy plant, which is 90 per cent complete.
Partial energy production of 300 megawatts by the plant is expected to begin in early 2025, with full capacity slated for later in the year.
The electricity generated will be sold to neighbouring Vietnam, marking a significant step in the province’s economic transformation.
In agriculture, local investments are creating jobs for residents and reducing reliance on migration for work.
By fostering self-reliance and encouraging households to adopt sustainable practices, the government hopes to promote economic stability and growth across the region.
Last year, Xekong’s economy grew by 6 per cent, while the GDP was 2,984 billion kip.
The agricultural sector, which accounted for 62.81 per cent of the GDP, grew by 4.32 per cent, while the industrial sector contributing 22.51 per cent and expanded by 7.10 per cent.
The services sector accounted for 14.68 percent of the GDP and grew by 6.84 per cent.
Revenue collection exceeded expectations, reaching 632.62 billion kip or 211.61 per cent of the target.
The province saw progress in infrastructure projects, including the Xekaman 3 hydropower project and ongoing energy and mining ventures.
These developments created jobs and fostered a good investment atmosphere, Leklay said.
He expressed confidence in Xekong’s ability to sustain economic growth at 6.2 per cent in 2025, with an expected GDP of 3,376 billion kip.
The agricultural sector is forecast to grow by 4.34 per cent, contributing 62.99 per cent of the GDP, while the industrial and services sectors are projected to grow by 7.90 per cent and 6.46 per cent, respectively.
Revenue collection is estimated at 616 billion kip, including 95 billion kip from the central government and 521 billion kip from local sources.
Underpinning this growth is a strong emphasis on unity and adherence to government policies.
Leklay called on party members and leaders to continue guiding communities, fostering harmony among the province’s diverse ethnic groups, and promoting long-term sustainability. - Vientiane Times/ANN
