VIENTIANE, Sept. 25 (Xinhua) -- Laos is working to address labor shortages and develop short-term and long-term plans to balance labor supply and demand.
The Lao Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare held a consultation meeting with partners and relevant stakeholders in Lao capital Vientiane on Thursday to discuss labor supply and demand and address challenges in the domestic job market. The meeting was chaired by Anousone Khamsingsavath, director general of the ministry's Department of Employment, the Vientiane Mai newspaper reported on Friday.
Speaking at the meeting, Anousone highlighted the changing socio-economic environment, rapid advances in technology and innovation, labor market developments, pandemics, natural disasters and persistent inflation, which have increased the cost of living. These factors have affected the livelihoods and employment of Lao citizens, as well as business operations and investment projects across the country.
She stressed the importance of effective employment services and appropriate policies and mechanisms to regulate the labor market and better balance supply and demand. Such measures are needed to meet employers' workforce requirements, support domestic investment projects and respond to changing economic conditions.
The ministry has already strengthened its employment service system in line with relevant policies and regulations. Key measures include expanding employment service operations, promoting online services for job seekers and employers, and organizing job fairs and consultation meetings with relevant stakeholders.
The lack of accurate labor market information has made it more difficult to match job seekers with vacancies, balance labor supply and demand, and develop a workforce that meets employers' actual needs.
Anousone also emphasized the need to establish a stable and sustainable job placement system capable of addressing labor market challenges, including workforce attraction and incentives, in both the short and long term. ■
