Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism, Mrs Suanesavanh Vignaket, presents certifi cates to a retiring deputy minister, director and deputy director general of a ministry department.

Media advances with organisational reform, digital growth

The media sector in Laos is undergoing a significant transformation, marked by steady growth and key organisational reforms.
This includes changes to the ministry’s leadership, with the Deputy Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism set to retire along with the directors and deputy directors general of some ministry departments.
Speaking at a landmark meeting on Monday, the Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism, Mrs Suanesavanh Vignaket, announced the transfer of media oversight to the Party Central Committee’s Propaganda and Training Committee.
“This organisational reform is an important turning point, a transformation for strength and growth,” she said.
“I firmly believe that, with our tradition of solidarity, strong sense of responsibility, and under the leadership of the Party, the work of the media, now under the Propaganda and Training Committee and the new Ministry of Culture and Tourism, will continue to advance.”
“This will contribute significantly to building a strong nation, a prosperous people, and a democratic, just, and civilised society.”
The Minister highlighted the increasingly vital role of the media in communicating the voice of the Party and State, sharing policy guidelines, and combating misinformation and disinformation.
She also referred to other key media milestones, including Laos’ transition from analogue to digital broadcasting.
The rapid adoption of online media platforms has transformed the way in which Lao people consume news and information, making access more efficient and widespread, she noted.
“The growth we are witnessing is not only in quantity but also in quality,” Mrs Suanesavanh said, noting improvements in technology and communication strategies across the sector.
She called on all media professionals and stakeholders to embrace the challenges ahead with unity and dedication.
“I urge all comrades to join hands in promoting solidarity, take pride in the achievements we have made, and active carry out new duties to bring about tangible results.”
At the same time, Mrs Suanesavanh reiterated the need for continued investment in training, infrastructure, and professional standards to ensure that the media remains responsive, reliable, and effective in the digital era.
She also stressed the continuing need for improvements in the accuracy and timeliness of news delivery.
From just nine radio stations in the 1990s, news is now delivered through 86 radio stations, 49 television stations, and 116 print media outlets. This growth reflects the country’s commitment to expanding its media presence and modernising its infrastructure.

By Phetphoxay Sengpaseuth
 (Latest Update June 17, 2025)