MOFCOM provides RMB 240 million grant for China-Laos Railway Relocated Villages Settlement Project

Project narrative

In 2020, China's Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) issued an RMB 240 million grant to the Government of Laos for the China-Laos Railway Relocated Villages Settlement Project. The purpose of the project was to relocate and resettle nearly 1,875 people -- from 349 households in five villages in four counties and three provinces of Luang Namtha, Oudomxay and Luang Prabang in Laos -- displaced by the construction of the China-Laos Railway. The project involved the construction of 349 houses as well as public service facilities such as kindergartens, elementary schools and health clinics. Public works included roads, water supply and digital TV. Two of the five resettlement villages have been identified: Buam Aor village in Xiang Ngeun district within Luang Prabang Province and Nadou Village in Namtha District within Luang Namtha Province. NORINCO International Cooperation Ltd. was the contractor responsible for implementation. The project started its preliminary work in October 2020. However, it did not official commence until April 17, 2021. The project was ultimately completed on May 29, 2022.