Economy / Laos
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Going For Gold
November 2006 | Ratings UpdateSorry, you must be a subscriber to view this article in full. If you are a subscriber please login.
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China's burgeoning domestic need for commodities is fostering attempts by Beijing to firm relations with Laos. In particular, Laotian soft commodities, such as corn, bananas and sugarcane are increasingly earmarked for export to China. The rising reliance on Chinese consumers has political consequences for Laos. In Oudomxay province, which borders China, Chinese yuan notes are freely used. Moreover, Chinese shops and markets have proliferated. On a broader scale, the creeping Sino-isation of Northern Laos validates Beijing's recent diplomatic strategy. Between 1989 and 2005, China has provided a reported US$1.17bn in soft loans and aid. The relationship provides a welcome economic