Vientiane:The Lao government has proposed revisions to the existing road traffic law in a bid to enhance safety and improve transport management. This proposal was presented by the Minister of Public Works and Transport, Leklai Sivilay, during the second extraordinary session of the 10th National Assembly on October 16, 2026.

According to Lao News Agency, the revisions are necessary due to rapid socio-economic changes and developments in the transport sector that have exposed gaps in the current legal framework. The existing law, which was enacted in 2012, is seen as outdated and lacking in certain areas such as a unified national traffic database and clear responsibilities between central and local authorities.

The new legislation is divided into 12 parts, 11 chapters, and 100 articles, which includes 31 newly drafted and 69 amended articles. In contrast, the previous law contained 89 articles. The revision process involved input from relevant ministries, legal experts, local authorities, and international partners, including Vietnam's Directorate for Roads.

The government aims for the revised law to bolster the National Road Safety Strategy for 2021-2030 by enhancing enforcement measures, reducing road accidents and congestion, and safeguarding lives and property. Additionally, the revisions are intended to align national regulations with sub-regional, regional, and international standards, as well as improve the distribution of responsibilities across different administrative levels. This alignment is expected to strengthen public and investor confidence in Laos' transport infrastructure.

The proposed amendments are currently under consideration by the National Assembly.