Lao officials say the value of their garment exports has steadily increased in the last three years, from US$115 million in 2003 to $131 million in 2004 and $142 million in 2005. And they expect an increase of at least 10% in 2006, to more than $156 million.
Garment industry officials say the steady increase in their exports is mainly due to tariff exemptions or the GSP status granted by Canada, Australia, and the EU, adding that the normal trade relations status granted by the US last year has helped very little so far.
Listen to our Laos Today report for more details.