Tourism & Food Safety: Laos says it still can’t prove the cause or assign blame for six tourist deaths in 2024 tied to methanol-tainted alcohol in Vang Vieng, because families refused autopsies—though methanol was found in Tiger Vodka and charges were filed against a distillery owner and 10 hostel employees. Diplomacy & Regional Industry Links: ASEAN foreign ministers’ meetings opened in Manila, with energy security on the agenda, including ratification of the ASEAN Petroleum Security Agreement. AI Governance & Tech Industry: At WAIC in Shanghai, Xi Jinping pushed AI as a “symphony” of global collaboration and backed the new World AI Cooperation Organization (WAICO), with Laos listed among founding members—signals for regional tech policy and partnerships. Cross-border Trade (Chemicals): Vietnam’s Vinachem showcased household chemicals, fertilizers and industrial products at VIETLAO EXPO 2026 in Vientiane and signed cooperation with Laos’ Phongsavanh Group. Cross-border Trade (Retail/Consumer): Thailand Week 2026 opened in Vientiane to boost Thai-Lao business ties through product showcases and matching sessions. Energy & Macroeconomic Resilience: AMRO said Laos has shown resilience to the 2026 oil shock via policy adjustments, while PM Sonexay met Thailand’s energy minister to deepen energy security cooperation.