Vientiane Province Push: President Thongloun Sisoulith urged Vientiane Province to speed up governance, environmental protection and sustainable tourism, including tougher action on illegal mining, restoring the Nam Song River, and improving safety for visitors in Vangvieng. Wildlife Trade Crackdown Fails to Stop Growth: A new report says illegal wildlife shopping sites catering to Chinese tour groups in Luang Prabang and Vientiane are still expanding despite enforcement, with dozens of outlets allegedly operating. Methanol Poisoning Justice Pressure: The brother of British victim Simone White called Laos’ lack of charges a “slap in the face,” pointing to methanol toxicity listed on her death certificate and the role of missing autopsies. Diplomatic Push for Transparency: Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong pressed Laos for a transparent investigation and stronger accountability over the 2024 Vang Vieng methanol deaths of two Australians and others. Hospital Services Suspended Over Organ-Transplant Allegations: Laos’ health authorities ordered a temporary suspension of services at BLL Hospital in Vientiane Capital while they investigate social-media claims of illegal organ transplants. HIV Testing Update: In Oudomxay, HIV testing of 264 female sex workers found 12 positive cases, prompting calls to expand prevention, testing and timely treatment. Healthcare Funding Warning: The World Bank says Laos health spending is too low and out-of-pocket costs remain heavy, warning families may delay care as disease burdens rise.