Analysis of the Belt and Road Initiative in Lao People’s Democratic Republic

Yong, Marcus Chee Kuan (2022) Analysis of the Belt and Road Initiative in Lao People’s Democratic Republic. Doctoral thesis, Asia e University, Malaysia.

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Abstract

The Boten-Vientiane railway (also known as China-Laos railway) is an unprecedented highspeed railway that was pitched under the Belt and Road initiative (BRI) in Lao PDR and is co-owned by Laos and China. It connects China to Thailand and extends to Southeast Asia (SEA) under the Singapore-Kunming railway link (SKRL). Despite the increasing attention from developed countries on the rapidly emerging market located in SEA, there is still a dearth of studies on infrastructure especially under the Chinese BRI since 2013. Lao PDR is undergoing a mass infrastructure development especially in terms of connectivity projects including high-speed railways. It is important to understand the perceptions of Laos stakeholders against the modern high-speed railway relative to the existing connectivity infrastructure. This study is guided by Solow economic growth model and new economic geography (NEG) which aims to discuss the joint venture project pitched under the Chinese BRI on roles, perceptions, associated challenges and opportunities to gauge the benefits of the spill over to the country and region. Empirical researchers have advised various statistics on the BRI investments and economic effects on SEA, this study however, has taken a different route to evaluate the highspeed railway project by adopting qualitative methods – in-depth interviews and evaluative analysis to deliver in-depth information. Research findings revealed several factors to evaluate the highspeed project with opportunities and challenges by authorities and industries stakeholders in Lao PDR. A research framework was developed to identify the key factors to evaluate the railway pitched under the BRI. Meanwhile, the underlying challenges and opportunities have been discussed to address confusion from local and international players thus stimulating the local and regional economic development. Research findings of this study will be invaluable to the government authorities, researchers, and investors to seize the opportunity of contributing to the economic prosperity of Lao PDR while successfully transforming to a land-linked country.

Item Type:	Thesis (Doctoral)
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HC Economic History and Conditions H Social Sciences > HE Transportation and Communications
Divisions:	School of Management
Depositing User:	Muhamad Aizat Nazmi Mohd Nor Hamin
Date Deposited:	27 Apr 2026 01:22
Last Modified:	28 Apr 2026 01:04
URI:	http://ur.aeu.edu.my/id/eprint/1489

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