VIENTIANE, Feb. 24 (Xinhua) -- Laos is targeting between 5 and 6 million international tourist arrivals in 2026, driven by improved regional connectivity and rising global interest in cross-border rail travel, local media said.

People participate in activities in celebration of the That Luang festival in Vientiane, Laos, Nov. 4, 2025. (Photo by Kaikeo Saiyasane/Xinhua)

Authorities expect robust inflows of visitors from China, boosted by the 65th anniversary of Laos-China diplomatic relations and the expanding role of the China-Laos Railway in connecting ASEAN with China and wider global markets, Lao News Agency reported on Tuesday.

Tourism remains a key economic pillar for Laos, generating revenue and supporting jobs at both national and community levels. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Laos welcomed nearly 5 million international visitor arrivals annually, earning close to 700 million US dollars in revenue.

Since reopening in 2022, alongside the launch of the China-Laos Railway in 2021, visitor numbers have steadily recovered. Officials say Laos is strengthening its reputation not only as a destination rich in heritage, natural beauty, and culture, but also as an emerging regional transport hub backed by modern infrastructure and social stability.

The Lao government also plans to enhance regional integration through future rail links with Thailand and Vietnam, while advancing broader development strategies focused on green growth, industrial modernization, and digital transformation.

Laos welcomed more than 4.5 million foreign visitors in 2025, marking an 11 percent increase from 2024. The number of foreign arrivals exceeded the government's target of 4.3 million visitors for the year.