The country has considerable, though largely untapped, reserves of tin, lead and zinc, as well as iron ore, coal and timber. Economic reforms began in the early 1990s and included an extensive programme of privatisation. These initially attracted the support of the IMF but the government's failure to meet successive financial targets led to a withdrawal of the Fund's support in 1998. Since then, a mild recovery has taken place but the economic prospects are still uncertain. Laos is a member of the Asian Development Bank and the Colombo Plan, which promotes economic and social development in Asia and the Pacific.
Punctuality is appreciated.
Lightweight suits, shirt and tie should be worn. English is not spoken by all officials and a knowledge of French will be useful. Business cards should have a Laotian translation on the reverse. Best time to visit is during the dry season, from November to April.