LSIC Codes in Laos

How the Lao Standard Industrial Classification works, and how to use it when you register a business.

QUICK ANSWER

LSIC is the Lao national version of the UN’s ISIC industry classification. You need the correct code or codes to register a business, because they identify your activity and can show which government agency must approve it. The National Enterprise Database lists 894 codes across 21 sections. A single business can register more than one activity, and each one may need separate approval.

Why the Code Matters

It defines your registered activity. A business can register under more than one code.
It can trigger agency approval. Some activities need approval from a specific agency, which the registrar manages as part of registration.
It affects timing. NED warns that activities on its Negative List need additional checks, which can prolong registration.
It links to licensing. The license directory uses the same sector letters.

LSIC Sections and Code Counts

Counts below come from the NED code lookup on 5 November 2026. Responsible agencies are shown using NED’s abbreviations. Use the official lookup to find the exact code.

Section	Codes	Main agencies listed
A – Agriculture, forestry and fishing	81	11	MOAF
B – Mining and quarrying	20	0	None listed
C – Manufacturing	352	20	MOIC, MOH
D – Electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning	5	0	None listed
E – Water supply, sewerage and waste	9	4	MCTPC
F – Construction	27	0	None listed
G – Wholesale and retail trade; vehicle repair	124	5	MOIC, BOL
H – Transportation and storage	32	16	MCTPC
I – Accommodation and food service	14	3	MICT
J – Information and communication	38	15	MICT
K – Financial and insurance	41	36	MOF, BOL
L – Real estate	6	0	None listed
M – Professional, scientific and technical	25	4	MOF, MOJ
N – Administrative and support services	31	2	MOLSW, MICT
O – Public administration and defence	14	0	None listed
P – Education	17	9	MOES, MOLSW/MOES
Q – Human health and social work	11	4	MOH
R – Arts, entertainment and recreation	18	6	MICT
S – Other service activities	25	0	None listed
T – Households as employers	3	0	None listed
U – Extraterritorial organizations	1	0	None listed

How to Choose a Code

Getting this right at the start avoids later changes to your certificate.

01Describe the activity precisely

Write down what the business will actually do, including secondary activities.

02Find the section and code

Use the NED lookup. Select a section, then read its code descriptions.

03Note the responsible agency

This indicates who may need to approve the activity.

04Check licensing and controls

Check the sector’s licenses and whether the activity is controlled before you file.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does LSIC stand for?

Lao Standard Industrial Classification of All Economic Activities. It is the national variation of the International Standard Industrial Classification (ISIC).

Can one company have several LSIC codes?

Yes. NED states that a business can register under more than one activity at a time, and each may need approval from an external agency.

Where can I look up LSIC codes?

Use the code lookup on the National Enterprise Database website. It lists each code with its description and responsible agency.

What is the negative list?

NED describes it as business activities subject to special control, with additional checks that may prolong registration. See our guide to controlled business in Laos for the investment-law framework.