Advice on investment, company setup and entering the Lao market.
Business unit: Business & Government Services
What this service is
Starting or expanding a business in Laos means dealing with new laws, licences, partners and customers at the same time. Our consultants help you make decisions with local information, then turn the plan into a registered, working operation.
We advise foreign investors, regional companies and Lao businesses on market entry, company structure, licensing routes and partner selection. We stay with you through setup, so advice and execution come from the same team.
Who it is for
- Foreign investors exploring Laos for the first time
- Chinese, Thai and regional companies opening a branch or subsidiary
- Lao businesses planning to expand, partner or seek investment
- Factories and traders looking for suppliers, land or distribution in Laos
- Business owners who need a local partner to manage day-to-day setup
How we help
- Market entry assessmentMarket size, competitors, customers and regulations for your sector, summarised in a short decision report.
- Company structure and registrationChoosing between a branch, representative office, wholly owned company or joint venture, and handling registration.
- Licences and approvalsMapping which business licences, sector approvals and permits you need, and in what order.
- Partner and location searchFinding and checking local partners, suppliers, offices, warehouses or land.
- Investment incentivesReviewing whether your project may qualify for promotion zones or incentives, and what it takes to apply.
- Ongoing business supportAnnual renewals, compliance calendars, meetings with authorities and day-to-day problem solving.
How it works
Initial consultation
We discuss your goals, budget and timeline by phone, WeChat, WhatsApp or in person.
Proposal and quotation
You receive a written scope with deliverables, timeline, required documents and fees.
Research and planning
Our team gathers information, meets the right offices and prepares the plan or report.
Implementation
We register, apply and coordinate with authorities and partners on your behalf.
Handover and follow-up
You receive all documents and a compliance calendar, and we remain available for renewals and next steps.
Documents you will need
- Passport copies of shareholders and directors
- Company documents of the parent company (for corporate investors)
- Short business plan or project description
- Proposed company name, capital and business activities
- Office or site lease agreement (when available)
- Bank reference or proof of funds (for some activities)
The exact list depends on your case. We send you a checklist before we start.
Processing time
- Initial consultation
- 1–3 working days
- Market entry report
- 2–4 weeks
- Company registration (general business)
- 4–8 weeks
- Sector licences and approvals
- Quoted per case
Times are estimates. Government processing times vary, and we confirm a timeline after reviewing your case.
Frequently asked questions
Can a foreign company own 100% of a business in Laos?
In many sectors yes, but some activities have ownership limits or require a Lao partner. We check the current rules for your activity before you commit.
Do I need to travel to Laos to set up a company?
Not always. Many steps can be handled under a power of attorney, but some signatures or bank procedures may require a visit. We plan the visit so it is as short as possible.
Can you act as our local representative after setup?
Yes. We provide ongoing support for renewals, reporting, meetings with authorities and local coordination.
How do you charge?
Consulting is quoted per project or as a monthly retainer. Contact us for a quotation based on your scope.
Pricing
Contact us for quotation — Every case is different. Send us your details and we will prepare a quotation for your situation.
MVM GROUP