ASEAN STI Push in Vientiane: Malaysia urged ASEAN to build a more integrated, mission-driven science, technology and innovation ecosystem to tackle energy transition, food security, public health and climate resilience, as ministers met in Vientiane. Regional Science Partnerships: Vietnam reaffirmed support for ASEAN STI cooperation, calling for joint research on water security, climate-resilient agriculture and the green energy transition, while ASEAN also met Japan and the Republic of Korea to expand STI work plans and digital transformation. Laos Inflation Eases: Laos’ inflation slowed to 7.4% in June from 9% in May, with the biggest price rise in housing, water, electricity and gas. Drug Fight Focus: On International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, Laos’ Prime Minister reiterated stronger law enforcement, public awareness, alternative livelihoods, and rehab and treatment efforts. Laos–Thailand Border Milestone: Laos and Thailand inaugurated a special border marker at Nam Ngeun–Huai Kon to mark 75 years of diplomatic ties and continued border cooperation. Fuel Tax Returns to Normal: Laos restored higher fuel excise taxes as emergency cuts ended, updating Vientiane retail prices for gasoline and diesel. Mekong Crime Cooperation: South Korea met Mekong nations to expand cooperation against transnational crimes, including advanced technologies and economic security. Business in Laos: AgroBerries announced a 150-hectare blueberry project in Laos, with first commercial volumes expected in Q4 2026.