Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the growth of e-commerce in Laos, reshaping how businesses engage with markets. However, women, persons with disabilities, and other marginalised groups continue to face barriers to full participation in the digital economy.
Project: Gender Equality on Sustainable E-Commerce Development after Covid-19 pandemic – a Case Study of Laos Commenced: May 2024 Regional or National: National - Laos Partner: Institute of Industry and Commerce under the Ministry of Industry and Commerce of Laos. Status: Completed Objectives This project aimed to advance inclusive e-commerce development in Laos by embedding gender equality, disability, and social inclusion (GEDSI) principles in the digital economy. It addressed key barriers preventing women, persons with disabilities, and other marginalised groups from participating fully in online business and digital trade. Key goals included: Promoting inclusive e-commerce in Laos by integrating GEDSI considerations into digital trade and e-commerce strategies. Improving digital literacy and online business skills among women, people with disabilities, and marginalised entrepreneurs. Expanding equitable access to digital platforms and e-commerce tools to help under-represented groups establish and grow their online businesses. Supporting enabling policies and institutional capacity to sustain inclusive participation in the Lao digital economy. Outcomes The project delivered practical tools and training to improve digital inclusion in the Lao e-commerce ecosystem, with a strong focus on gender equality and support for persons with disabilities and other marginalised groups. Key outcomes included: A scientific study on inclusive e-commerce was conducted in Vientiane and Luang Prabang, identifying barriers and opportunities for women and people with disabilities in digital trade. Digital skills training workshops delivered to 64 participants from diverse backgrounds, covering online selling, content creation, customer engagement, and access to microfinance. A stakeholder consultation workshop reviewed key findings and informed inclusive e-commerce policy recommendations for the Ministry of Industry and Commerce. An instructional booklet on online business was developed and distributed to education and community institutions. It guides users on how to start and sustain e-commerce ventures. Discover what RT4D does Find out more about RCEP Explore More RT4D Projects and Their Impact
