Lao Brewery keeps the taps – and optimism – flowing as Laos’ economy slows

[VIENTIANE] In one of Asia’s poorest and smallest economies, beer is big business.

Lao Brewery, the producer of the ubiquitous Beerlao, remains bullish even as the Laotian currency tumbles and growth slows in a nation of just 7.8 million, where nearly everyone owns a home, disposable income is rising, and young people abound.

Backed primarily by Denmark’s Carlsberg Group, the company’s annual production capacity for beer, soft drinks and bottled water has expanded to 800 million litres today, from 20 million litres two decades ago.