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Representatives from both sides gathered for a photo during the conference. |
Toyo Lao Pipe sets new standard in water systems, supports Laos’ development goals
This article marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party, the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Lao PDR, and the 105th anniversary of the birth of former President Kaysone Phomvihane this year.
Toyo Industry Lao Factory Sole Company Limited is strengthening infrastructure in Laos by producing high-quality pipes suited to domestic conditions, in line with government efforts to promote local manufacturing.
The company produces pipes for urban drainage, irrigation, farming, mining, and power and telecommunications systems, with a production capacity of more than 100,000 tonnes a year.
Toyo Lao operates in line with the government’s industrial policy, which aims to reduce reliance on imports and turn Laos into a production-driven economy.
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President of Toyo Industry Lao Factory Sole Company Limited, Dr Langkone Xaingavong, said using Lao-made equipment such as Toyo’s pipes can reduce project costs by up to 50 percent compared to the use of imported materials.
He cited an irrigation project in Savannakhet province, which was originally budgeted at US$5 million for pipe parts. After switching to Toyo pipes, the project was completed for less than US$2 million.
Dr Langkone said older systems using steel or concrete pipes are costly, labour-intensive, and not suitable for extreme weather conditions. However, some builders still think traditional materials are stronger.
“The belief that plastic pipes are weaker has its roots in the 1990s, when the technology was still developing. But now the world has changed,” he said.
Toyo Lao offers advanced solutions such as steel-reinforced and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipes. Dr Langkone said steel pipes are rigid, expensive, and require many fittings, while polyethylene pipes are more flexible and easier to install.
He said HDPE double-wall corrugated pipes offer many benefits for drainage systems, including better water flow, resistance to breakage, and leak-proof joints. These features also help reduce erosion and environmental damage.
In contrast, concrete pipes can crack and leak, causing sediment build-up and blockages that increase maintenance costs. Their rough surface also slows water flow.
Dr Langkone added that HDPE pipes require fewer joints – one every six metres – compared to concrete pipes, which need one every two metres, while their longer, sealed connections help prevent leaks.
The pipes are also lighter, making them quicker to install. This speeds up construction work and allows roads and public areas to reopen sooner.
Toyo Lao uses technology from the European Union and the United States to produce pipes ranging from 16mm to DN1600mm.
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Representatives from both sides gathered for a photo during the conference. |
The factory’s products are produced under international standards, including HDPE pipe (ISO 4427, DIN 8074/8075, AS/NZS 4130); U-PVC pipe (ISO 1452, ISO 4422); PVC pipe (TIS 17-2532); PPR pipe (DIN 8077); and DWC pipe (EN13476, ISO 21138).
A skilled technical team with more than 20 years of experience ensures quality control using certified laboratory systems approved by the Department of Standardisation and Metrology under the Ministry of Industry and Commerce.
The factory applies quality systems such as 5S, Kaizen, the PDCA cycle (Plan-Do-Check-Act), and the 4M1T approach (Man, Material, Machine, Method, and Timeframe) to improve productivity and safety.
Toyo Lao’s clients include the Lao Water Supply State Enterprise, the Asian Development Bank, the Japan International Cooperation Agency, special economic zones, and other international partners.
With three branches in Vientiane and more than 1,000 distributors nationwide, Toyo Lao has built a strong distribution network.
The company holds ISO 9001:2015 certification from TCL Australia and a Made in Laos certificate. In 2024, it received the National Quality Award, the Outstanding Lao Young Entrepreneur Award, and the ASEAN Outstanding Business Initiative Award.
Mr Langkone said Toyo Lao’s leadership remains focused on innovation and product quality. The factory frequently receives visits from senior Party and government leaders, who provide direction to ensure that the company’s growth supports national development.
As Laos prepares to mark the 70th anniversary of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party, the 50th anniversary of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, and the 105th birth anniversary of President Kaysone Phomvihane in 2025, Dr Langkone paid tribute to the country’s revolutionary leaders.
He expressed his deep gratitude to the founding generation, led by President Kaysone, and thanked today’s leaders for carrying forward the Party’s goals of peace, prosperity, and unity.
By addressing outdated construction practices, improving infrastructure, and supporting economic growth, Toyo Lao is helping to move Laos forward while proudly promoting the value of products made in the country.
By Phonepaseuth Volakhoun
(Latest Update April 30, 2025)
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