Imports and exports

Before the first refinery opened, Laos was a net diesel importer. Most diesel imports come from Thailand and much of the remainder comes from Viet Nam. This is principally because Laos’ major cities are located along the Mekong Rivers, which border Laos and Thailand. To enhance the commodities trade between the two countries, the Laos government cooperates with Thailand and has constructed four Thai-Lao “friendship bridges.” Two more “friendship bridges” are under construction.

In 2018, Laos imported 863,000 tonnes diesel, including high- and low-speed diesel. Of this, 92.8% came from Thailand, 7.7% from Viet Nam and 0.9% from China. The figure below shows diesel import volumes from 2010 to 2018.