Vientiane, Lao PDR – June 2025 — LOCA, the leading Lao-grown ride-hailing and electric mobility startup, is proud to announce the extension of its current fundraising round through the issuance of a $2.5 million (USD equivalent) Green Bond. This new funding will further accelerate LOCA’s bold vision to transform urban transportation in Laos through electric mobility and sustainable infrastructure. The Green Bond issuance and sale will be facilitated by the three securities companies including BCEL-KT Securities Company Limited, LDB Securities Sole Company Limited and Lao-China Securities Public Company.

Proceeds from the Green Bond will be used to expand LOCA’s nationwide EV charging infrastructure, including an innovative program to revive defunct gas stations into EV-friendly charging and community hubs—breathing new life into outdated infrastructure. In addition, part of the funding will go toward the rapid expansion of LOCA MINI, an affordable, 100% electric taxi fleet aimed at delivering safe, low-cost, and efficient on-demand transportation for city dwellers.

Mr. Soulisak Thamnuvong, Deputy Governor of the Bank of Laos also remarked that this represents a significant milestone for the Lao capital market, particularly the issuance of green bonds. He emphasized that it plays a vital role in fundraising for various entities and provides diverse investment opportunities linked to environmental business practices. This development is important for the country’s economic growth and for reducing emissions.

According to Dr. Thepsavanh Kitignavong, Managing Director of BCEL-KT Securities Company Limited, representing the three securities companies, this is the first time Laos to issue Green Bond. It is not just a milestone for the business but also a commitment from LOCA to purely move forward sustainable mobility.

“We’ve already secured a committed investment in our earlier round, but we’re extending this round to push our 2035 vision forward—now targeting success by 2030,” said Mr. Souliyo Vongdala, Co-Founder and CEO of LOCA.

“There isn’t yet a serious player who truly believes EV vision for Laos, so we have no choice but to move forward and commit ourselves to pioneering this transition. We’ve done it before with ride-hailing—helping grow an entire market—and we’re ready to do it again for electric mobility. Our hope is that by leading the way, others will follow, creating a thriving industry and more opportunities for the people of Laos”

Since its inception in 2018, LOCA has grown into the first and largest ride-hailing platform in Laos, with over 1,000 active drivers, 90% of whom now operate EVs. Originally aiming to become a 100% EV fleet by 2030, LOCA is now on track to reach that goal five years early.

“LOCA is not only growing rapidly but doing so profitably and responsibly,” said Ms. Phonepasong Mixab, Co-Founder and Co-CEO.

“With a strong team, innovative technology, and a proven business model, we’re confident that this round will bring excellent returns to investors—while also creating real, lasting impact for the Lao people.” The Lao EV market has seen exponential growth, with four-wheel BEV registrations rising from 1,414 in 2022 to over 5,100 in 2024, and projections showing 8,000+ by 2025 and 15,000 per year by 2030. LOCA’s EV charging infrastructure has already served more than 8,000 unique vehicles, effectively supporting nearly 100% of Laos’ BEV drivers, both taxi operators and private owners.

EV drivers in Laos are now saving over 70% in fuel costs compared to gasoline, making the switch not only environmentally responsible but also economically smart. Combined with falling EV prices, the adoption rate is only expected to accelerate.

LOCA believes that investing in EV infrastructure and green mobility today will deliver major environmental and economic benefits. Laos, often referred to as the “Battery of Southeast Asia,” has abundant renewable energy resources—making it an ideal country to lead the EV transition. According to JICA estimates, Laos could save up to $940 million per year by 2030 if it achieves full EV adoption.

With this Green Bond initiative, LOCA is inviting mission-aligned investors to be part of a historic transformation—a movement that’s creating jobs, cutting emissions, and positioning Laos as a regional leader in sustainable mobility.

For more information, please contact:

LOCA COMPANY LIMITED

7th Floor Vientiane Plaza Hotel, Saylom Rd, Vientiane, Laos

Email: [email protected]

Phone: +8562098111129