YCH Group Pte Ltd., a leading integrated supply chain management and logistics provider in the Asia-Pacific region, and Vientiane Logistics Park Co., Ltd. (VLP), a leading logistics service provider in Laos, have announced a landmark strategic partnership in a significant move that will enhance supply chain links within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on this partnership was signed on March 8 at the ASEAN Economic Ministers Interface Meeting with the ASEAN Business Advisory Council, in Luang Prabang province, Laos.

The partnership underlines the shared commitment of both entities to strengthen the region’s logistics infrastructure through the  Lao Logistics Link  (LLL)/LaosConnect, an integral part of the SGConnect (Smart Growth Connect) programme.

This collaboration between the YCH Group and the Vientiane Logistics Park will focus on several key areas:

• Warehousing and Services Exploration: Together, the two organisations will assess and meet the warehousing, fulfilment, logistics value-added services, cold storage, and fresh food processing needs of the VLP.
• Supply Chain Connectivity Services: A joint venture to explore new supply chain connectivity services will aim to facilitate cross-border trade between Laos and the wider ASEAN market, as well as between Laos and China.
• Technology and IT Solutions Development: Utilising YCH Group’s technology arm, Y3 Technologies, the partnership is set to develop and implement warehousing and logistics IT solutions for VLP and the Thanaleng Dry Port (TDP).
• Skills Development and Capacity Building: Working with SCALA (Supply Chain and Logistics Academy), both organisations will co-create competency frameworks and sustainable development programmes for VLP employees and industry participants.

The MOU between the YCH Group and Vientiane Logistics Park Co., Ltd. embodies a future vision where enhanced supply chain networks lead to greater competitiveness and economic integration for the ASEAN region.
Through their joint efforts, the two organisations are committed to transforming the ASEAN logistical landscape, making it more efficient and interconnected.

“We are immensely enthusiastic about initiating this strategic partnership with the Vientiane Logistics Park, as it heralds a critical advancement in our endeavour to augment ASEAN supply chain connectivity,” Executive Chairman of the YCH Group, Dr Robert Yap, said.

“By amalgamating our strengths, we anticipate unlocking novel avenues for growth and efficiency within regional logistics infrastructure, specifically facilitating cross-border commerce between Laos and the broader ASEAN market, as well as between Laos and China.”
“This collaboration is a testament to our dedication to the SGConnect initiative and embodies our vision for a seamlessly interconnected ASEAN. Collectively, we are laying the groundwork for a new epoch of intelligent logistics, wherein advanced technologies and innovative solutions catalyse sustainable development and economic harmonisation across frontiers.”

President of Vientiane Logistics Park Co., Ltd., Dr Chanthone Sitthixay, said “We are profoundly delighted to announce the commencement of a strategic partnership with the YCH Group, which signifies a pivotal juncture in our efforts to enhance supply chain connectivity within the ASEAN region.”
“This collaboration marks a significant advancement in cross-border trade facilitation between Laos, the wider ASEAN community, and China, thereby solidifying our commitment to developing a more cohesive and resilient logistics infrastructure.”
“Through this alliance, our dedication lies in harnessing state-of-the-art technologies and pioneering methodologies to transform the logistical framework, thereby fostering sustainable development and economic harmonisation throughout the region. In unison, we aim to establish a formidable platform that elevates efficiency, connectivity, and competitive edge across the ASEAN landscape.”

SGConnect was initiated in 2018 by ASEAN-BAC. The initiative seeks to foster sustainable and inclusive urban growth across the ASEAN region.
Spearheaded by Singapore’s YCH Group Pte Ltd., this visionary programme aims to establish Smart Growth Centres throughout ASEAN.
By improving distribution efficiencies and ensuring real-time visibility of goods movements, SGConnect serves as a vital support to the ASEAN Connectivity Master Plan 2025, enhancing smart logistics and supply chain infrastructure to facilitate smoother intra-ASEAN trade and broaden international connections. With successful models like VietnamConnect and CambodiaConnect already making an impact, SGConnect is poised to transform the logistical framework of the region.

The YCH Group is Singapore’s largest homegrown end-to-end supply chain management and logistics company, recognised as a leading regional partner for many of the world’s top brands across the Asia-Pacific. With a history dating back to 1955, the YCH Group operates in over 100 cities throughout the Asia-Pacific region, employing advanced technology systems and proprietary solutions to serve customers across the entire supply chain.
The company is renowned for its innovative 7PL™ approach, seamlessly integrating supply chain strategy with execution and excelling in industries such as fast-moving consumer goods, electronics, chemicals and healthcare, cold chain logistics, and e-commerce.

The Vientiane Logistics Park is one of the major projects under the Laos Logistics Link which begin operation in 2021.
The Vientiane Logistics Park enhances execution of the directive of the Lao government defining collection and distribution points in each region that connects with neighbouring countries, aiming to develop Lao human capital to support investors through the transfer of know-how from advanced economies through partnership and alliance with regional and global investors.