Cross-border Cybercrime Crackdown: A U.S.-led operation with the FBI and partners took down more than 1 million scam-related online accounts and arrested 63 people, with millions in crypto frozen, targeting scam compounds in Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar. ASEAN Policy Platform: The ASEAN Future Forum 2026 opened in Hanoi, with Lao PM Sonexay Siphandone attending as Vietnam urged ASEAN to move from reacting to global trends to shaping new rules and standards. Lao–China Deal Momentum: Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith’s China visit resulted in 32 cooperation agreements spanning agriculture, electricity, AI and the digital economy, as Xi Jinping called for a higher-standard China–Laos community. Regional Connectivity for Industry: Vietnam and Cambodia pushed practical cooperation on cross-border infrastructure and logistics, including expressway and air-link plans that also point to stronger Laos–Vietnam–Cambodia trade corridors. Scam Industry Shift Watch: Amnesty says Cambodia’s crackdown hasn’t dismantled most operations, warning that networks may be relocating and fragmenting—an issue Laos is treating as a top priority. EV Mobility Expansion: Green SM Limo (VinFast-backed) launched in India, signaling continued regional momentum for electric mobility services that could influence Laos’ future transport pilots. Monsoon Risk: Laos faces broader Mekong-region flood concerns as monsoon conditions strengthen, with authorities urging tighter water management ahead of heavy rains.