July 23, 2026
VIENTIANE – Laos and Hong Kong are seeking to deepen cooperation in financial services and precious metals development following a visit by Hong Kong’s Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, to the Lao Bullion Bank (LBB) and the Laos-International Precious Metals Refinery (LIPMER) in Vientiane on July 20.
The visit came after the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on fostering financial cooperation between the Ministry of Finance of Laos and the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
Mr Hui was welcomed by Dr Chanthone Sitthixay and the management teams of the Lao Bullion Bank and LIPMER, who briefed the delegation on their operations and future development plans.
During a visit to the Lao Bullion Bank, Mr Hui was informed about the bank’s role in supporting the government’s efforts to modernise the domestic gold market through gold savings services, bullion banking, precious metals trading and stronger links with international markets.
Discussions also focused on the bank’s efforts to establish strategic partnerships with leading international financial institutions, bullion market participants and market infrastructure providers to strengthen Laos’ integration into the global precious metals ecosystem.
At the Laos-International Precious Metals Refinery, Mr Hui was introduced to the refinery’s capabilities and its contribution to strengthening the country’s precious metals value chain.
Officials highlighted the refinery’s role in expanding domestic refining capacity, promoting internationally recognised refining standards, and supporting value addition for precious metals produced in Laos.
According to the organisers, the visit reflected the shared commitment of Laos and Hong Kong to advancing cooperation in financial services and precious metals development under the framework of the newly signed memorandum.
The visit also underscored the importance of collaboration between government agencies and industry stakeholders in supporting sustainable economic development, enhancing regional market connectivity, and creating new opportunities for investment and trade.