TITLE:
Integrated Supply Chain Management and Fuel Security in the Lao PDR
AUTHORS:
Sivilay Keobountham
KEYWORDS:
Management, Integrated Supply, Chain, Fuel Security, Lao PDR
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Social Sciences,
Vol.14 No.10,
October
28,
2026
ABSTRACT: This study aims to: 1) examine the key challenges in the fuel supply chain management system in the Lao PDR; and 2) propose appropriate guidelines and strategies to ensure the security and sustainability of the country’s fuel supply chain. Employing a qualitative research design, the study utilized purposive sampling to select 19 key informants, comprising policy-level administrators, legal experts, fuel business operators (importers and distributors), and representatives from fuel associations. Data were collected through structured interviews and open-ended questionnaires, and subsequently analyzed using descriptive content analysis. The investigation integrated three conceptual frameworks—the 4As, Triple-A, and ISCM—alongside an analysis of regulatory frameworks, notably the Decree on Fuel Business (No. 559/PM). The findings reveal that the country’s complete reliance on fuel imports routed through neighboring countries creates severe vulnerabilities. These are driven by foreign exchange liquidity crises, high land transportation costs, limited strategic reserves, distribution imbalances in remote areas, and a lack of data integration between the public and private sectors. To foster supply chain resilience, the study recommends five strategic measures: 1) diversifying import sources through multimodal transport and an electronic customs clearance system (e-Customs); 2) implementing a cost-reflective pricing structure supported by financial cushioning mechanisms; 3) enforcing a 30-to-45-day fuel reserve mandate via public-private partnership (PPP); 4) utilizing a centralized digital platform for demand forecasting; and 5) accelerating the transition toward clean energy while promoting transparent public-private dialogue (PPD).