Second Private Sector and Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises Development Program (Subprograms 1 and 2)

As the government continues the reform program with assistance from other development partners and the private sector, detailed ongoing assessments of government budget commitments and financing needs, and capacity development are required, with related work plans. This support needs to include working with the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry as a key partner, expanding the SME Service Centers and outreach, and enhancing access to finance. It will also require government decisions on legal, regulatory, and financial aspects, to fully operationalize an e-commerce platform. Ongoing capacity building over the medium term will be required, especially for new initiatives.