Lao Tourism Marketing Board gears up for launch

Inaugurated in July, the LTMB was initially known as the Tourism Marketing and Promotion Board, but was renamed last month as the directors felt that "promotion" was naturally a part of marketing.

The LTMB aims to create a partnership between the public and private sectors for marketing Laos.

Lao National Tourism Administration (LNTA) vice chairman Soukaseum Bodhisane, who serves as LTMB president, said: "With private sector participation, the LTMB will complement the marketing activities of the LNTA."

The board is currently looking for a French public relations firm to spearhead a pilot project to promote Laos in the mainstream European media. Selection is slated for December 6.

It also plans to finalise its marketing strategy by March, and is currently developing a logo.

To fund the LTMB, a surcharge of US$1 to US$2 for each visitor will be collected at immigration checkpoints.

(Sources: Bernie Rosenbloom, Vientiane, TTGAsia)