The numbers post 2017 for the internet penetration rate aren’t available for Laos. As of 2017, the rate of Internet Penetration lies at 25.5%. From the following charts it is observed that Internet Penetration rate has grown substantially in the years 2010-2017. The economy has observed an increased from a mere 7% in 2010to reach 25.5% in 2017. The chart shows continuous growth over the years. From second chart it is established that Laos has the lowest IPR in the ASEAN region. This potentially is a huge worry for businessman, as they make their decisions.
The following graphs stress on the lack of presence of the digital economy in Laos. In the year 2018 Mobile Cellular Subscription as per the World Bank was at a mere, 51.8% and the Fixed Telephone Subscription was 20.9%. These numbers are significantly lower than that of the other ASEAN countries.
The following table highlights the IT Development Index ranking of Laos with comparison to other ASEAN countries.
To understand the digital economy better refer to: https://unctad.org/en/PublicationsLibrary/dtlstict2018d3_en.pdf
