Core Insights - H World Group Limited has entered the Laotian market by signing four hotel management agreements, marking a significant step in its international growth strategy and expansion in Southeast Asia [1][3][4] Company Expansion - The signing ceremony took place in Vientiane, Laos, on May 29, 2025, and represents H World's first entry into the country, aligning with its "asset-light and internationalization" strategy [1][3] - The new properties will be developed in collaboration with three investment partners: Lao Kunpeng Industrial Co., Ltd., Yuting Hotel Investment Management Co., Ltd., and KP Construction Sole Co., Ltd. [2][4] Project Details - The four hotels will feature H World's core upper-midscale and midscale brands, located in Vientiane and Luang Prabang, which are major tourist destinations [4] - Specific hotel projects include: - Intercity Hotel Vientiane, opening in early 2026, near Wattay International Airport [7] - Intercity Hotel Luang Prabang, expected to open in 2027, located in the historic city center [7] - JI Hotel Vientiane Mekong Riverside, set to open in early 2026, along the Mekong River [7] - Orange Hotel Vientiane International Airport, expected to open in Q3 2026, marking the brand's global debut outside China [7] Market Context - In 2024, Laos saw over 1.97 million international tourists, a more than threefold increase year-on-year, with Chinese tourists making up over 60% of the visitors [5]