LAOS’ 6.51% inflation is among the highest in Southeast Asia – behind only Myanmar – reported the Vientiane Times, as quoted by Vietnam News Agency.

It rose from 5.04% in November to 5.27% in December, the highest since August 2020.

Singapore logged an inflation rate of 4%, Cambodia (3.8%), Malaysia (3.2%), Thailand (2.17%), Indonesia (1.87%), Brunei (1.8%) and Vietnam (1.8%).

The third hike in fuel prices last month took effect in Laos on January 28, according to the report.

Fuel prices increased by 38.7% annually in December, driving up costs in information, transportation, manufacturing and goods.

To reduce fuel import and toxic gas emissions, the government has approved the use of electric vehicles – aiming to raise the number to 1% by 2025 and more than 30% by 2030. – Bernama, February 5, 2022.