This paper examines the determinants of performance in 1,776 micro and small enterprises that represent all industry sectors and geographical regions in Lao PDR. Although considerable resources are being directed toward promotion schemes in the country, empirical research on this subject is very limited. This study provides concrete insights into development strategies, particularly investment in basic education. The impact of business experience is small and insignificant. The differences between urban and rural, and Lao and ethnic minorities are narrowing in the younger generation, but still remain very large. The difference between male and female entrepreneurs found in most reports is rejected regardless of region, groups, and generation. These findings would help to formulate further efforts attempting to promote this sector.

This paper is a study on the returns to education in Lao, a country that has been largely neglected by the published literature. The authors found that the private rates of returns to education have risen significantly with economic transition. In particular, returns for young workers are considerably higher than for older workers. Although large earnings premiums are generally received by workers with high levels of education, the most profitable investment in education for a large number of paid employees is still the primary level. Moreover, there are the significant public–private sector wage differentials. The research findings have important implications for public sector salaries and the financing of education in Lao.

Laos has the highest maternal mortality rate in Southeast Asia. The present study examines antenatal care and birth location in relation to the residence, household education levels, wealth, ethnicity, age and media interest of pregnant women. The logit and OLS regression results show that pregnant women living in urban areas and rural areas with roads, from wealthy families, in the Lao ethnic group and in the young age group are more likely to receive antenatal care and have professional health workers deliver their children. Therefore, greater governmental efforts are required to make antenatal care available to all pregnant women.

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