U.S.-led anti-scam crackdown: The DOJ says more than 1 million scam-related online accounts were taken down and millions of dollars in cryptocurrency were frozen across Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar, with 63 arrests tied to forced scam operations. Laos-Japan ties: Lao PM Sonexay Siphandone and Japan’s counterpart Takaichi Sanae agreed to deepen cooperation across clean energy, agriculture, mining, tourism, technology and other sectors. Energy and trade under pressure: Laos plans to build a clean power and logistics hub while seeking fresh oil supplies as global prices rise amid the Middle East conflict. Laos-Vietnam power project review: An environmental impact assessment was reviewed for a Laos–Vietnam transmission line and substation linking Nam Nha hydropower to the border, with monitoring plans discussed. Human trafficking focus: Laos outlined priorities for its 2026–2030 anti-trafficking plan, aiming to tackle root causes and strengthen protection for vulnerable groups. Cybercrime case moves forward: An Indian court cleared the way for trial in a Laos-linked job scam-cyber fraud case involving alleged forced online scamming. Japan volunteers arrive: Seven Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers began assignments in Laos, bringing the total currently serving to 46. Bokeo youth entrepreneurship: A young entrepreneur story highlights how small grants and skills are helping build Bokeo’s future. Renewables climate risk: A report warns about US$165 billion in ASEAN renewable energy assets face climate-related hazards by 2030, stressing the need for resilience spending.