Decision on Digital Technology Business Operations Issued
The Ministry of Technology and Communication (“MOTC“) has issued Decision on Digital Technology Business Operations No.3643/MOTC, dated 29 September 2025 (“Decision“).
The Decision provides the principles and measures for managing digital technology business operations, aiming to promote efficient service and maintain order, safety, and fairness. It covers activities like information services, database management, and information exchange through communication networks. The types of digital technology business operations regulated by the Decision include the following:
- data centres;
- cloud service providers;
- blockchains;
- big data;
- artificial intelligence (AI);
- digital content;
- provision of services for importing digital technology equipment;
- distribution of digital technology equipment;
- software development and services;
- conducting digital technology security business;
- digital technology consulting services;
- digital technology training services;
- installation and repair services for digital technology; and
- other digital technology business operations.
MOTC Issues Decision on Digital Platforms Providing Digital Services
The Ministry of Technology and Communication (“MOTC“) has issued Decision on Digital Platform No.3648/MOTC, dated 29 September 2025 (“Decision“).
The Decision stipulates the principles and measures for managing digital platforms that provide electronic transaction services. These platforms act as intermediaries, managing data and facilitating transactions between service providers and users. The types of digital platforms covered by the Decision include the following:
- digital trading platforms;
- digital financial platforms;
- digital transportation and logistics platforms;
- digital educational platforms;
- digital health service
- digital tourism service platforms;
- digital content service platforms;
- digital social media network platforms; and
- other digital platforms.
MOIC Issues Decision on Managing Registered Capital of Enterprises
The Ministry of Industry and Commerce of Lao PDR (“MOIC“) has issued Decision on the Enterprise’s Registered Capital No. 2025/MOIC, dated 9 September 2025 (“Decision“).
The Decision sets out the principles and regulations for managing registered capital of enterprises in Lao PDR. The Decision outlines the capital formation process for different types of enterprises, including personal enterprises, joint stock companies, and limited partnerships. It details the capitalisation process for financial and material enterprises, emphasising the need for accurate and complete capital declarations.
Key features of the Decision include:
- Capital to be registered: An enterprise’s registered capital refers to the capital of an individual, legal entity or organisation that has been included in the application for enterprise registration. The registered capital shall be accurate and provided in full in accordance with the relevant laws and regulations. In case of violation, the errant individual or entity shall be liable for making a false statement.
- Registered capital requirements: The registered capital must be genuine, fully paid, and contributed by the owners or shareholders through monetary funds or tangible assets. Contributions made in the form of loans are not permitted.
- Shareholders to contribute to capital: Shareholders of individual enterprises, partnerships and companies are required to contribute capital in the form of cash and/or tangible assets, in accordance with the shareholders’ agreement.
- Capitalisation of registered capital for financial enterprises: Owners, shareholders, and Lao citizens must transfer their contribution to the registered capital to a Lao PDR commercial bank account.
- Capital contribution by foreigners: Foreigners without residency in Lao PDR must transfer funds from abroad to a Lao PDR business bank account and obtain a confirmation of capital importation. The registered capital must be certified by the Bank of Lao PDR.
- Registered capital limit: The registered capital of a relevant enterprise cannot exceed 50% of its total registered capital, unless otherwise specified by law.
Please note that whilst the information in this Update is correct to the best of our knowledge and belief at the time of writing, it is only intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter and should not be treated as a substitute for specific professional advice
