The American-Lao Business Association was formed in September 2012. It is an associate member of The Asia-Pacific Council of American Chambers of Commerce (APCAC). Mission: The mission of the American-Lao Business Association is to conduct activities that facilitate the investment and growth of U.S. businesses in the Lao P.D.R., thus contributing to the overall development of local communities and the Lao P.D.R. as a whole. Objectives: The main objectives of the American-Lao Business Association are to: Represent American business interests in Laos; Promote and support new direct US investment in Laos; Provide opportunities for US businesses/organizations to network and do business with other companies in Laos and in the region; Work closely with other chambers, particularly the Lao National Chamber of Commerce, and also the Lao Government to advocate for and further grow US investment in Laos; Liaise with the US Embassy to better understand US Government policy and initiatives in Laos. Give back to the Lao community in which we live. Universal Business Principles: It is fundamental to the philosophy of the American-Lao Business Association that good ethics and good business are synonymous. American-Lao Business Association believes that American business plays an important role as a catalyst for positive social change by promoting human welfare and the principles of free enterprise. American-Lao Business Association recognizes that American companies already set the highest standards for ethical business practices. We encourage members to communicate information about their existing programs and practices relative to good corporate citizenship in the markets in which they operate.