Nghiên cứu sinh Keodara Vongsavanthong bảo vệ luận án tiến sĩ
ORIGINAL CONTRIBUTIONS OF THE DISSERTATION
Dissertation title: The Impacts of Transport Infrastructure on International Trade in Lao PDR
Specialization: Business Administration (International Business)
Specialization code: 9340101
PhD candidate: Keodara Vongsavanthong
Supervisor: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ta Van Loi
Institution: National Economics University
Original contributions on academic and theoretical aspects
1.This dissertation presents a comprehensive econometric model of the impact of transportation infrastructure on Laos' international trade, employing a Structural Equation Model (SEM) to analyze the complex interaction between physical infrastructure, institutional factors, and labor market dynamics. This approach extends current theories by incorporating additional factors into the traditional infrastructure-trade relationship model.
2.The study provides an in-depth comparative analysis of bilateral trade dynamics between Laos and its key trading partners, using SEM to detect distinct patterns and relationships within each bilateral context. This micro-level approach complements existing macro-level studies by capturing heterogeneity in infrastructure connectivity and trade development.
3.The dissertation constructs an integrated conceptual framework that combines physical and non-physical factors influencing the infrastructure-trade relationship, expanding on existing theoretical models that primarily focus on economic determinants. This framework emphasizes the importance of human capital development, institutional coordination, and regional integration as key determinants of infrastructure connectivity effectiveness.
4.The research advances a unique theory of Laos' role as a land-linked nation, with transportation infrastructure serving as the foundation for transforming the country into a strategic logistics hub. This theory contributes to current discussions on new regionalism and the geopolitics of connectivity within the context of major integration initiatives such as the GMS and ASEAN.
Recommendations derived from the findings of the dissertation
1.The Lao government should adopt an integrated infrastructure development framework that combines strategic priorities across all transportation modes, rather than isolated initiatives. This approach will enable more effective coordination among government agencies, optimize resource allocation, and ensure alignment with broader development goals. This framework will require institutional capacity building, participatory planning, and cross-border stakeholder coordination.
2.Laos should actively pursue regional cooperation opportunities to enhance transport connectivity with neighboring countries, particularly through the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) program and the ASEAN Economic Community. This will require institutional capacity building, regulatory harmonization, and knowledge exchange with regional stakeholders to promote technical standardization and bilateral agreements. Stronger collective bargaining and regional coordination will be key to resolving cross-border infrastructure bottlenecks.
3.The Lao government should develop a comprehensive trade facilitation program to address non-physical barriers to international economic integration. This program would include customs modernization, human resource capacity building, technology-driven process optimization, and harmonization with regional standards such as the ASEAN Trade Facilitation Framework. Success will depend on sustained institutional reform, digital adoption, and active engagement with the private sector in implementing trade facilitation initiatives.
