The Lao Association of Travel Agents (LATA) is an independent, voluntary, private sector representative association. Its members are travel agents and tour operators operating in Lao PDR.
LATA was established in November 2004 with the formal approval of the Lao National Tourism Administration (LNTA).
LATA members work closely with the LNTA and Provincial Tourism Organisations in Laos to help achieve the Lao National Tourism Strategy. In particular LATA members are committed to the following:
- promoting Lao PDR as a quality tourism destination in all trade markets worldwide
- ensuring that the highest standards of service are offered by the Lao travel industry.
- enhancing the business ethics of the travel profession.
- encouraging the development of a sustainable tourism industry in Lao PDR.
All members of LATA are legally registered with statutory authorities in Lao PDR, including the LNTA and provincial authorities where appropriate. Many members also have international affiliation. In particular LATA members are voluntarily bound by the rigid rules of LATA’s own Code of Conduct.
Intending visitors to Lao PDR are advised to arrange their holidays through one of our members.
How do we meet those objectives?
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We liaise with LNTA in relation to proposed marketing activities and provide advice and coordination
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We work closely with LNTA to organize press events to provide members with the opportunity to meet with national and travel trade press and to increase the profile of LATA
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We provide members with forums for networking.
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Regular press newsletters are sent to our members. These provide members with essential information on new developments and tourism trends in the region.
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We represent the interests of members to government on issues such as taxation, regulations, tourism development and marketing.
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We represent the interests of our members with other regional travel agency associations.
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We advise our members on the requirements of the international market place and of current Lao legislation.
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Regular training and seminars are organized to improve knowledge and skills of our members.
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We seek funding from international donor agencies for marketing and training. At present LATA is receiving funding from the European Union for training and development; and technical advice from SNV Netherlands Development Organization and Leeds Metropolitan University.
Why become LATA members?
LATA has a lot to offer as it is the biggest travel association founded in Lao PDR. We are providing our members with opportunity for training and seminars on various topics and issues that meet member’s needs and wants with regards to skills and knowledge development.
At the national level, we represent our members’ interest to the concerned organization such as government and local authorities. We influence in the government policies on tourism that effect our members.
At the international level, LATA members are also provided with the opportunity to showcase and be presented in the international travel trade fair and forums, usually in partnership with LNTA.™™
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