Nghiên cứu sinh Saymanolinh Sinbandhit bảo vệ luận án tiến sĩ
ORIGINAL CONTRIBUTIONS OF THE DISSERTATION
Dissertation title: Commercial cooperation of Laos with countries in the Greater Mekong Subregion
Specialization: Business Administration Specialization code: 9340101
PhD candidate: Saymanolinh Sinbandhit
Supervisor: Assoc. Prof. Bui Huy Nhuong
Original contributions to academic and theoretical aspects
1. The thesis generates empirical insight into Laos' trade cooperation with other GMS countries through quantitative analysis of economic indicators and qualitative examination of policies/strategies guiding the partnerships. This evidence enriches the understanding of cooperation mechanisms in the region.
2. Case studies and policy evaluations of initiatives in special economic zones, industrial parks and trade corridors would expand theories on geography, trade costs, and catch-up development strategies for landlocked countries. It would test theories on the role of economic space and spillovers.
3. The thesis develops a paradigmatic research framework to analyse trade cooperation in the Greater Mekong Subregion. This framework is based on classical theories but is adjusted to fit the context of Laos and countries in the Greater Mekong Subregion.
Recommendations derived from the findings of the dissertation
1. The thesis finds that according to statistical data, Laos has seen growing trade volumes and foreign investment from other GMS countries over the past 10 years, pointing to stronger economic linkages. Total trade surpassed $9 billion by 2020, up from $1.4 billion previously. Significant trade partners were Thailand, China and Vietnam. Foreign investment from the subregion totaled $8.6 billion, largely from Thailand and China. This data suggests Laos has deepening commercial cooperation within the Greater Mekong Subregion.
2. Bilateral free trade agreements between Laos and Vietnam (signed in 2015) and between Laos and Thailand (signed in 1991 and renewed in 2016) have helped reduce tariffs and boost bilateral trade between these countries over the past decade. Under these FTAs, over 90% of Laos's exports to Thailand and 80% to Vietnam are duty-free imports. However, non-tariff barriers remain a significant obstacle to trade growth between Laos and Vietnam/Thailand. Import licensing requirements, excessive paperwork procedures, arbitrary customs valuations, and unofficial payments at borders significantly increase costs and risks for Lao traders.
3. Based on the research findings, the thesis presents two groups of recommendations to foster trade cooperation between Laos and the countries in the Greater Mekong Subregion:
For regional infrastructure: The Lao government could prioritise the paving of roads connecting major cities to border checkpoints and establish public-private partnership relations to fund large-scale road and rail projects. Laos and neighbouring countries should establish bilateral working groups to negotiate cross-border infrastructure initiatives and resolve differences in regulations hindering e-commerce.
For SME export capacity: To foster commercial cooperation between SMEs in Laos and other GMS countries, an integrated set of initiatives is proposed. A cooperative SME network and targeted trade promotion programs can help businesses access regional markets through information sharing, joint marketing, trade missions, and exhibitions. Tailored financing with credit guarantees addresses the lack of capital inhibiting cross-border growth. Special economic zones near borders and harmonized product standards simplify market integration. Promoting priority industry clusters and training on market entry strategies equips SMEs to capitalize on opportunities. The recommendations reduce barriers while leveraging partnerships across the GMS to mutually benefit small businesses through expanded trade, investment, sourcing, and skills development linkages within the subregion.
