Successful Completion of “Module 2 – Mainstreaming Gender into Business” Training Session in Lao PDR

The Lao Competitiveness and Trade Project witnessed another milestone with the completion of the training session “Module 2 – Mainstreaming Gender into Business” held in Luang Prabang on 13 and 14 September 2023. This initiative forms part of the overarching goal to integrate gender perspectives across trade and business in Lao PDR.

“We believe that by addressing gender imbalances and embracing inclusiveness, we can bring about transformative changes in business practices and perceptions in Lao PDR,” remarked Mr. SENGPHNOMCHONE INTHASAN, DDG of DPC, MOIC in his opening statement. Mrs. VONGPADITH VONGSAVATH, DDG, Enterprise Registration and Management Department and committee of MOIC Women’s Union reflected that MOIC well on most legal and regulatory indicators and most laws are gender-neutral. Nevertheless, women and men tend to be concentrated in different sectors, endowed with different educational levels and skills, have varying access to networks and information, and have separate cultural/family responsibilities, which tend to lead to different levels of economic participation between women and men.

In addition to structured presentations, the two-day training was enriched by insights from guest speakers, Ms. Souphaphone (Nana) Souannavong, a celebrated Laotian entrepreneur, and Ms. Ratha Chea, Secretary of State, Ministry of Commerce, Cambodia. Their real-world experiences offered invaluable perspectives on women’s entrepreneurial journeys, especially during and post the Covid pandemic era. Guest speakers emphasized the importance of earmarked resources made available for women’s economic empowerment. Digitization of both public and private sectors creates many new opportunities for women and other underrepresented gender groups but also faces challenges and obstacles which must be urgently addressed.

This training was steered by Mia Mikic, the International Gender Advisor, along with Mr. Sommith Manylert, the National Gender Consultant. The module tackled the pivotal role of women in Lao PDR’s economy and businesses. It emphasized the barriers faced by women entrepreneurs and discussed in detail on strategies and reforms that can bolster women-led ventures.
Feedback from participants indicated a positive reception. The two-day training allowed for robust discussions and networking, creating an environment of mutual growth and understanding.

The training will continue with another two modules later this year and early next year. It is accompanied by a series of public events organized by the NIU, MOIC with multiple partners with the sponsorship from the Lao Competitiveness and Trade Project, coordinated by the World Bank and the NIU, MOIC. Upon the successful completion of the training, the participants will be able to support gender mainstreaming in their work and community environments. The most successful participant will be issued a special recognition and a reward.

The commitment by all involved to gender mainstreaming is evident, and this training session is a testament to the strides being made in achieving gender equality in Lao PDR’s trade and business landscape.

The Training was supported by the Lao PDR Competitiveness and Trade (LCT) Project. The project aims to eliminate barriers to private sector-led growth by improving the regulatory environment, lowering trade costs, and raising firm-level competitiveness. The LCT Project is implemented by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, with technical and financial support from the World Bank and a multi-donor trust fund contributed by Australia, Ireland, and the United States.

For more information on the long-term capacity building Gender mainstreaming into trade and business in Lao PDR you can contact Sommith.m@laosaft.org a national gender consultant.