Laos Eliminating Permit Requirement for Certain Auto Imports

Laos no longer requires permits to import auto parts used in domestic manufacturing and assembly, according to a Jan. 16 report from the Hong Kong Trade Development Council. Previously, companies were required to undergo a series of administrative procedures to secure a permit, the HKTDC said. Although a permit is no longer required, companies will need to submit reports each year by Dec. 10 containing details of the auto parts they plan to import the following year. The change is part of an effort by Laos’ prime minister to “streamline” import, export and temporary import for export procedures, the report said. The effort also includes a proposal to create an electronic system to pay import and export fees.