Lao enterprises turn responsible business principles into workplace practice

Vientiane (ILO News) - Companies in the Lao People's Democratic Republic are translating responsible business conduct (RBC) principles into concrete workplace practices, according to participants in a seminar held in Vientiane on 13 March 2026.

The International Labour Organization (ILO) and the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LNCCI) convened the event, "Responsible Business Conduct in Practice: Enterprise Good Practices from Lao People's Democratic Republic".

The seminar saw representatives of enterprises present case studies documenting their experiences in applying the principles of the ILO Tripartite Declaration of Principles concerning Multinational Enterprises and Social Policy (MNE Declaration) in their operations.

The case studies illustrate how responsible practices, from improving workplace safety and workers wellbeing to strengthening grievance mechanisms and job creation, are not only matters of policy commitment, but of everyday business decisions.

Taking part were 33 representatives, including 11 women, from LNCCI, sectoral organizations, the Lao Federation of Trade Unions, the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare, enterprise representatives, and ILO officials.

The seminar took place at a critical moment, as the country prepares for its scheduled graduation from Least Developed Country status in 2026 and deepens its integration into regional and global supply chains. Participants discussed how international buyers, investors, and regulators are placing growing expectations on enterprises to demonstrate responsible business conduct, and how aligning with these expectations is increasingly a factor in maintaining market access, attracting investment, and ensuring long-term business sustainability.

"We need to adapt to global trends that emphasize respect for human rights and labour rights through human rights due diligence," said Dr. Xaybandith Rasphone, Vice President of the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, who co-chaired the event. "I am confident that the outcomes of today's dissemination will help our enterprises grow stronger, adapt to global trends, and develop sustainably alongside the national economy."

"For many enterprises, responsible business conduct is no longer only a matter of compliance, but an important factor in enhancing trust, market access, and long-term business sustainability," said Yuki Kobayashi, ILO Programme Coordinator. "We hope these experiences will serve as a source of inspiration and peer learning for the wider business community."

The seminar was organized under the ILO's Building Responsible Value Chains in Asia through the Promotion of Decent Work in Business Operations (Phase II) project, funded by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry of Japan. The project supported enterprises and tripartite constituents in the Lao People's Democratic Republic to promote responsible and sustainable business practices that align with national legal frameworks and the principles of international labour standards, guided by the ILO Tripartite Declaration of Principles concerning Multinational Enterprises and Social Policy.