The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank’s (AIIB) Board of Directors has approved a loan of USD40 million to improve a critical section of National Road 13 in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR). This is AIIB’s first approved project in Lao PDR and it will directly benefit over half a million people.
58 kilometers of road will be rehabilitated in order to improve functionality, safety and climate resilience. Of the main beneficiaries, over 239,000 are women, living in 471 villages and 11 districts in Vientiane Capital and Vientiane Province. The project will also benefit individuals and commercial road users who need to travel to and from the eight northern provinces of Lao PDR, as well as to Viet Nam, Thailand and China.
“For our first investment in Lao PDR we chose a project that will have both local and regional impacts,” said AIIB Vice President and Chief Investment Officer D.J. Pandian. “This investment will improve one of the most vital transport routes in the country. The updates to the road will enable quicker and safer transportation of goods and people, which will promote socio-economic development within the country and improve connectivity with its neighbors.”
The National Road 13 Improvement Plan and Maintenance Project is the first project submitted to AIIB’s Board of Directors for review that benefited from a grant from AIIB’s Project Preparation Special Fund. The USD995,000 grant supported preparatory consultancy services that included preparation of a resettlement action plan to ensure implementation readiness and conceptual design of the south section of National Road 13.
“By working to bring National Road 13 up to the ASEAN road standard, we are helping to increase its sustainability, as damage from heavy vehicles will be reduced,” said AIIB Director General Supee Teravaninthorn. “To help ensure that Lao PDR can maintain National Road 13 for the long-term, AIIB’s investment will support construction that will reduce future maintenance costs and extend the project’s life cycle.”
The National Road 13 Improvement Plan and Maintenance Project is jointly cofinanced with the World Bank and the Nordic Development Fund.
Additional information about the project can be found here.
About AIIB
The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) is a multilateral development bank with a mission to improve social and economic outcomes in Asia. Headquartered in Beijing, we began operations in January 2016 and have now grown to 93 approved members worldwide. By investing in sustainable infrastructure and other productive sectors in Asia and beyond, we will better connect people, services and markets that over time will impact the lives of billions and build a better future.
Beijing, January 16, 2026
AIIB Marks 10th Year of Financing Infrastructure for Tomorrow
The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) turns 10 today, Jan. 16, 2026. In its first decade, the Bank has approved nearly USD70 billion in 361 projects across 40 members, delivering infrastructure that improves the lives and livelihoods for millions of people across Asia and beyond. From roads and railways to power grids, digital networks and water systems, these investments have helped lay the foundations for sustainable and inclusive growth.
READ MOREBeijing, January 16, 2026
Zou Jiayi Assumes Presidency of Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank
Zou Jiayi began her first day today as President and Chair of the Board of Directors of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) on the Bank’s 10th anniversary, pledging an era of continuity and progress as she leads AIIB into its second decade.
READ MOREAbu Dhabi, January 15, 2026
AIIB Marks Two Years of Abu Dhabi Hub Presence
The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) marked - two years of successful operations of its Abu Dhabi Hub at a high-level reception held on the margins of the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2026. Organized in partnership with the Sino-International Entrepreneurs Federation, the reception brought together more than 100 dignitaries from government, multilateral and financial institutions, the diplomatic community and the private sector.
READ MOREBeijing, January 15, 2026
Jin Liqun Concludes Second Term as AIIB President
Today, Jin Liqun concludes his second term as President and Chair of the Board of Directors of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), marking a decade of leadership since the Bank’s establishment.
READ MORE