Sea cucumbers, abalones, king crabs, caviar, these high-end ingredients here only cost a few dozen yuan per person;
The streets are bustling with women, who are fashionable, charming, and generous, and see marrying Chinese men as the best choice;
Can you believe that such a place really exists in Asia?
Although it is called "the poorest country in Asia," many people say that once they come, they don't want to leave!
Where exactly is this place? Is it really as wonderful as rumored?
First Impressions of Laos
Stepping into Laos, the first things that catch your eye are the rolling mountains and the winding Mekong River. As the only landlocked country in Southeast Asia, Laos is surrounded by Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, China, and Myanmar.
Walking through the streets of Laos, you'll find that the population density here is much lower than in neighboring countries. As of 2021, the total population of Laos is about 7.3 million, with the Lao ethnic group making up about 55%.
However, behind this number lies a multicultural society with 49 ethnic groups, including the Hmong, Khmer, and Nung minorities, adding rich colors to Laotian society.
The Economic Situation in Laos
When it comes to Laos, many people's first impression might be "poverty." Indeed, in 2021, the GDP per capita of Laos was about $2,500, with about 18% of the population still living below the poverty line.
The low income level results in astonishingly low prices. In Laos, a bowl of aromatic rice noodles costs only 10 yuan, and the prices of various high-end ingredients are also jaw-dropping.
Even in the capital, Vientiane, the cost of a night in a three-star hotel is only 200 yuan, while the same environment in China often costs thousands of yuan.
It is this extreme disparity that makes Laos a "rich paradise" in the eyes of many foreign tourists.
Mr. Wang from China excitedly shares his luxurious experience in Laos: "I stayed in a five-star hotel in Laos, feasting every day and enjoying high-end SPA treatments, and the total cost for a week was less than 3,000 yuan!"
However, this kind of "luxury" is something that locals can only dream of.
Despite facing many challenges, the economy of Laos is steadily developing. Agriculture remains the backbone of the national economy, with rice production accounting for 16% of GDP, and coffee being an important export crop.
Mining also generates significant income for Laos, with annual outputs of copper and gold mines reaching about $1 billion and $200 million, respectively.
Additionally, Laos is vigorously developing its hydropower industry. Currently, the installed capacity of hydropower stations has reached about 7,000 megawatts, generating about $1 billion in annual electricity export revenues.
Unique Social Phenomenon in Laos: Gender Role Reversal
In Laos, you might discover a surprising social phenomenon. Unlike many countries, Laotian women often play a dominant role in economic activities.
Entering the night market in Vientiane, you will see busy female vendors who wake up at 4 a.m. to prepare ingredients and work until 10 p.m. "The entire family's income depends on me," says Ms. Li Na proudly.
This is not an isolated case. Statistics show that over 60% of small and micro enterprises in Laos are operated by women.
In stark contrast to the hardworking women, young men can be seen chatting idly in the streets and alleys. This "lying flat" phenomenon has sparked widespread discussion in society.
Some believe this is a backlash against traditional male-dominated views; others point out that the proportion of men receiving higher education is lower than that of women, leading to decreased competitiveness in employment; there are also views that societal expectations for men have been lowered, reducing their pressure.
This unique phenomenon has had a profound impact on Laotian society, even showing a trend of "female superiority over males."
Women becoming the economic pillars of families has changed traditional family structures. In the marriage market, women's standards for choosing a spouse have continuously risen, while men face unprecedented pressures in marriage.
This phenomenon also affects transnational marriages. Laotian women show a higher favorability towards Chinese men, mainly due to the hardworking image and relatively strong economic strength of Chinese men.
Statistics indicate that about 500 Sino-Lao transnational marriages occur each year, and this number is still on the rise.
The Development Potential of Laos
Although the current level of economic development is low, Laos holds tremendous development potential.
Firstly, the tourism industry is an important engine for Laos's economic development. From the majestic Kuang Si Falls to the picturesque Kong Lor Cave, Laos boasts breathtaking natural landscapes.
The ancient city of Luang Prabang, listed as a World Cultural Heritage site by UNESCO, attracts countless history and culture enthusiasts.
In 2019, the number of international tourists in Laos reached 4.5 million. Although affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, tourism revenue is expected to account for 15% of Laos's GDP by 2025.
Secondly, Laos's rich natural resources provide a solid foundation for economic development. In addition to the developed resources like copper, gold, and potash, Laos also has huge hydropower potential.
Currently, Laos is planning to build over 100 large and medium-sized hydropower stations, which can not only meet domestic electricity needs but also create considerable foreign exchange income through electricity exports.
Looking Forward to the Future Development of Laos
Standing at a new historical starting point, Laos is moving towards modernization with firm steps. This country, once ravaged by war and poverty, is gradually showcasing its unique charm and tremendous development potential.
However, while embracing modernization, how to maintain its cultural identity, and how to find a development path suitable for itself in the wave of globalization are issues that Laos needs to deeply consider.
As a landlocked country located in the heart of Southeast Asia, the development of Laos not only concerns the welfare of its own people but also has a profound impact on the peace and prosperity of the entire region.
Therefore, the international community should pay more attention and support to Laos, helping this country with great potential overcome the difficulties in development and achieve sustainable development.
We look forward to seeing a more prosperous and comfortable Laos one day.
