New regulatory requirements for medical device registration and notification in Laos are set to enter into force in the coming weeks under the plan found in Notification No. 9606 to implement Decision No. 1470/MOH on Registration and Notification of Medical Devices (Decision 1470). The notification, issued on October 25, 2023, by the Food and Drug Department (FDD) under the Ministry of Health (MOH), outlines the FDD’s strategic plan for phased-in registration and notification requirements for medical devices. In the first phase, starting January 1, 2024, the FDD will initiate the registration process for class C (moderate-high risk) and D (high risk) medical devices. Meanwhile, operators dealing with class A (low risk) and B (low-moderate risk) devices can continue applying for import permits without having to register the devices or notify the FDD. In the subsequent phase, starting January 1, 2025, operators will have to notify the FDD about class A devices and complete the registration process for class B devices. To prepare for these requirements, import-export companies in the pharmaceutical and medical products sector must submit a list of medical devices, including their classification based on the country of manufacture, to the FDD by December 15, 2023. This measure is aimed at enabling the FDD to streamline the collection, guidance, and preparation processes to ensure efficient registration within the set time frame. While import-export companies can still submit their lists after either December 15, 2023, or January 1, 2024 (the registration commencement date), registration may be delayed since the FDD will prioritize those who submit their lists by the December 15 deadline. The list of medical devices should encompass medical devices imported in the past as well as those intended for future import permission applications. During the initial registration stage (i.e., from January 1, 2024), import-export companies that are

Over the past two years, Laos has experienced a sharp depreciation in the value of the kip (LAK) against foreign currencies. To thwart this depreciation and get its currency back on track, the government took a series of measures and issued the Law on Foreign Exchange Management No. 15/NA of July 7, 2022 (the “FX Law”) to improve management of the foreign currency and reiterate restrictions on foreign currency in the country. The amended law also aimed to strengthen foreign exchange liquidity and increase the reserve of foreign currency held in Laos. This year, the prime minister of Laos issued the Order on the Implementation of Foreign Exchange Management, which came into force on July 14, 2023. The order addresses foreign currency use, movement, and possession and clarifies administrative roles regarding the FX Law. This article outlines some of the key points related to the FX Law and the prime minister’s recent order. Use of Foreign Currency Other than a major relaxation regarding remuneration for foreign employees, the amended FX Law retains Laos’ strict regulatory approach to the use of foreign currencies. The general rule is that foreign currency payments for goods, services, debt, dividends, or taxes are prohibited; these payments must be in LAK. The amended law also seems to prevent suggestions that a price in LAK may be adjusted based on another currency. One of the few exceptions to these requirements is for the export of goods and services abroad, in which case it is acceptable to receive payment in foreign currencies. Similarly, the import of goods may allow payment in foreign currency. Announcements or advertisements of the price of goods or services in a foreign currency are likewise prohibited, as is offering a salary in foreign currency when advertising a job in Laos. Similarly, employees’ remuneration,

The emergence of generative artificial intelligence (AI) has transformed the landscape for innovators and creators. As many legal practitioners have pointed out, it’s imperative for both developers of AI and artists using generative AI to understand the intricacies of intellectual property (IP) strategies so they can navigate this evolving terrain successfully. This article lays out some essential considerations relating to the major types of IP for both developers and creators in the realm of generative AI. IP Strategies for Developers of Generative AI Developers of generative AI technologies play a pivotal role in the innovation landscape. There are three overarching IP-related issues to consider: protecting their own intellectual property, mitigating the risk of violating other people’s IP rights, and IP commercialization. Key aspects of these concerns, along with suggested approaches for developers, are outlined below. Protecting IP Copyrights. One of the primary considerations for AI developers is the protection of AI-generated works, such as art and source code. The good news is that in most countries, these creations enjoy copyright protection without the need for registration. As a result, the works are automatically protected from the moment of creation. However, it’s crucial to maintain comprehensive records of your work to establish your ownership. Trademarks. Trademarks are vital for AI developers looking to establish and protect their brand. Pay close attention to Nice classifications, particularly class 9 (for software), class 35 (for business management and online marketing), and class 42 (for software design and development). Registering trademarks in these classes can provide robust protection for your brand and products. Patents. For truly innovative AI algorithms, techniques, or processes, consider the option of patenting. Patents offer strong protection, but they require a thorough application process and the documentation of your innovation, including evidence that the invention is novel, non-obvious, and practically

The commercial real estate sector in Southeast Asia is a dynamic and innovative space, but businesses also face an array of complex legal challenges. With real estate investments transcending borders and regulations, businesses in the region confront a legal environment that demands a clear understanding of the rules and procedures in each jurisdiction. Authored by legal experts at Tilleke & Gibbins, Commercial Real Estate Law in Southeast Asia is a comprehensive resource that addresses the legal issues relevant to enterprises involved in the commercial real estate sector. The guide explores the nuances of commercial real estate law in Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam, providing an overview of the regulatory framework and legal environment governing property transactions in these countries. Within the guide, readers will find detailed sections dedicated to each country, offering in-depth insights into the legal instruments, regulatory authorities, and procedural requirements that shape the commercial real estate landscape. Each section outlines the real estate activities that are permissible, those that are restricted, and the associated liabilities and penalties for noncompliance. The full Commercial Real Estate Law in Southeast Asia guide is available through the button below.