Enterprises across Lao PDR are increasingly adopting responsible business conduct as part of efforts to improve competitiveness and long-term sustainability. By integrating human rights due diligence, labour standards, and environmental, social and governance considerations into their operations, businesses aim to better align with global expectations and strengthen their position in international supply chains.
In October, the ILO and the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, together with provincial chambers, organized a series of workshops in Vientiane, Luang Prabang and Savannakhet. These sessions introduced responsible business conduct in the context of global and regional policy trends, emphasizing the role of international labour standards and the value of embedding labour rights into enterprise management systems.
A major focus was placed on the social dimension of ESG, including the Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work. Participants examined practical ways to identify labour-related due diligence requirements and enhance stakeholder engagement across supply chains.
More than 130 representatives from sectors such as garment manufacturing, tourism, electronics, food processing, agriculture, logistics and construction attended the workshops. Officials from government agencies, employers’ and workers’ organizations, and academic institutions also joined, demonstrating broad national engagement.
Speakers highlighted that adopting responsible business practices supports sustainability, attracts investment and fosters trust among workers, customers and business partners. Strengthening ESG and responsible conduct also helps enterprises implement international labour standards at the workplace level.
The workshops were held under the ILO’s Building Responsible Value Chains in Asia project, funded by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. The initiative assists Lao enterprises and tripartite partners in advancing responsible, sustainable business practices aligned with national laws and international labour principles.
