Transboundary Haze Risk: Laos PM Sonexay Siphandone warned that hotter-than-usual weather and El Niño are raising the risk of forest and peatland fires across the Mekong, with a reported ~8% rise in hotspots from Dec 2025–May 2026, threatening agriculture, health, and the regional economy. AI Infrastructure for Laos & Cambodia: Comin Asia and Nokia announced plans to deliver AI-ready, sovereign data centre infrastructure across Southeast Asia, targeting power- and policy-compatible deployments in markets including Laos and Cambodia. EV Push in the Region: China’s EV exports hit a record $9.2bn in May, driven by Southeast Asia demand; Laos is cited as adopting EV-friendly policies such as fleet requirements and temporary bans on gas imports. Mining & Fertilizer Investment: Laos Vice President Vienthong Siphandone visited Khammouane mining firms, including Lao Kaiyuan Mining and Asia-Potash (Laos), urging continued environmentally sustainable operations and industrial development. Maritime Security: ReCAAP ISC and the Philippine Coast Guard held a senior officers meeting with Laos and other focal points to strengthen port security and cooperation against piracy and sea robbery. Fuel & Trade Policy Watch: Laos’ fuel excise and nationwide fuel price revisions continue to draw attention as regional energy costs and cross-border trade pressures build.